Understanding the #TXLege: How laws are made in the state

The Texas Legislature is the state’s lawmaking body, responsible for crafting policies and passing laws that affect the lives of over 30 million Texans. As one of the largest legislatures in the country, it plays a crucial role in shaping the direction of the Lone Star State. Whether you’re a civics enthusiast or just curious about how laws are made in Texas as we enter the 89th Legislative Session, this Texas 2036 guide breaks down the basics of the Legislature’s composition, the legislative process, and the Governor’s role.

The Composition of the Texas Legislature

The Texas Legislature is bicameral, meaning it has two separate chambers: the Senate and the House of Representatives.

• The Senate: The upper chamber consists of 31 senators, each representing a district of roughly equal population of 940,000 Texans. Senators serve four-year, staggered terms, ensuring that about half the Senate is up for election every two years.
• The House of Representatives: The lower chamber is composed of 150 representatives, each serving two-year terms. House districts are also based on population, ensuring proportional representation of one House member per 194,000 Texans.

The Legislature meets in regular sessions for 140 days every odd-numbered year, starting in January. However, special sessions can be called by the Governor as needed, focusing on specific issues outlined by the Governor.

The 89th Legislature

The 89th Legislature will be sworn in shortly. As we enter this session, important dates of note include:

• January 14: First day of Session
• March 14: Last day to file bills (60 days into Session)
• June 2: Last day of Session (Sine Die)
• June 22: Veto Period Ends

How a Bill Becomes a Law in Texas

The process of turning an idea into a bill that becomes law is detailed and methodical, designed to ensure that proposed legislation is thoroughly vetted. Here’s a step-by-step overview:

1. Drafting and Introduction: A bill can be introduced by a member of either the House or Senate. It is then assigned a number, read for the first time, and referred to an appropriate committee.
2. Committee Review: Committees play a critical role in the legislative process. They study the bill, hold hearings, and may make modifications in a committee substitute. If approved by the committee, the bill moves to the full chamber for consideration.
3. Debate and Voting: In the originating chamber, members debate the bill’s merits and may propose additional changes. Once the bill is finalized, it is put to a vote. If it passes by a majority on second and third reading, it moves to the other chamber for consideration.
4. Second Chamber Review: The process is repeated in the other chamber. If the second chamber makes amendments, the bill must return to the originating chamber for approval.
5. Conference Committee: If the chambers cannot agree on the final version, a conference committee comprising members of both chambers works to resolve differences. The revised bill is then sent back to both chambers for a final vote.
6. Governor’s Action: Once approved by both chambers, the bill is sent to the Governor. The Governor can:
   • Sign the bill into law.
   • Veto the bill, returning it to the Legislature with an explanation. The Legislature can override the veto with a two-thirds majority in both chambers.
   • Allow the bill to become law without a signature if it is not signed or vetoed within ten days (or 20 days if the Legislature is adjourned).

The Governor’s Role in the Legislative Process

The Governor of Texas wields significant influence over the legislative process, both directly and indirectly. Besides signing or vetoing bills, the Governor can:

• Deliver the State of the State Address: This speech outlines the Governor’s legislative priorities and goals for the session, setting the tone for the agenda.
• Line-Item Veto: For appropriations bills, the Governor has the power to veto specific budgetary items while approving the rest of the bill.
• Set the Agenda for Special Sessions: When calling special sessions, the Governor determines the topics the Legislature can address.

The interplay between the Legislature and the Governor is a cornerstone of Texas’s checks and balances, ensuring that no single branch dominates the policymaking process.

Why It Matters

Understanding how the Texas Legislature operates is essential for anyone who wants to engage with the state government, advocate for change, or simply stay informed about policies that affect their community. By knowing the process, Texans can participate more effectively—whether by contacting their representatives or testifying in committee hearings.

The Texas Legislature may only meet for a short period every two years, but its decisions have a lasting impact on the state. Stay engaged and stay informed as the 89th Legislative Session kicks off this month!