Texas 89th Legislative Session: Final Update and Key Developments Impacting Texas Families
Texas Legislative Session Final Update: What Families Need to Know, June 6, 2025
The 89th Texas Legislative Session concluded on June 2, 2025, with significant legislation passed that will affect families across the state. Governor Greg Abbott has until June 22 to sign or veto bills passed in the final days of the session. Here are the most relevant updates for Texas families:
1. Family Law and Child Welfare
- Senate Bill 1398: This bill introduces new procedures for suits affecting the parent-child relationship, particularly for children under the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services. It emphasizes family preservation services and community-based foster care. (legiscan.com)
2. Estate Planning and Probate
- House Bill 3395: This legislation simplifies the transfer of ownership for manufactured homes classified as personal property upon the owner's death. It allows individuals to designate a beneficiary to receive their interest in such a home through a “beneficiary designation,” bypassing the probate process. (texaspolicyresearch.com)
3. Education and Cultural Legislation
- Senate Bill 10: Mandates that public schools display the Ten Commandments in classrooms.
- Senate Bill 2: Establishes a $1 billion private school voucher program, marking Texas's first school choice initiative. (houstonchronicle.com)
4. Property Tax and Insurance Reforms
- Senate Bill 4: Implements property tax cuts aimed at providing relief to homeowners.
- Insurance Legislation: While broad reforms to reduce home insurance costs were not enacted, lawmakers approved $100 million in aid for coastal school districts facing spiking insurance costs. (houstonchronicle.com)
5. Technology and Data Privacy
- Texas Responsible AI Governance Act (TRAIGA): This act prohibits government use of social scoring systems and the use of AI for identifying individuals through publicly available images. It also restricts businesses from using biometric data for commercial purposes, with penalties up to $25,000. (statesman.com)
Stay Informed with The Barrows Firm
As these legislative changes take effect, The Barrows Firm remains committed to guiding Texas families through the evolving legal landscape. If you have questions about how these new laws may impact your family or estate planning, please contact our office for personalized assistance.
