New Laws Taking Effect in Texas on September 1, 2023

More than 770 new laws passed by the Texas Legislature this year are set to go into effect on Friday, impacting a wide range of areas including health care, education, public safety, and more.

One of the key laws going into effect is the General Appropriations Act, House Bill 1, which outlines the state’s budget for the next two years. This budget includes significant spending on state and federal tax dollars, pay raises for state agency employees and retired teachers, and measures to stabilize the state’s retirement investment fund. Additionally, voters will be asked to approve property tax cuts and funding to expand broadband internet access.

Another important law is House Bill 3, which mandates an armed officer at every school campus in Texas and provides mental health training for school staff. This law aims to enhance school safety measures in the wake of the Uvalde school shooting.

Other notable laws going into effect include restrictions on big cities’ ability to enact local laws beyond state regulations, redefining fentanyl deaths as “poisonings” to allow for murder charges in overdose cases, and addressing the state’s power grid by changing how electricity is bought and sold.

Additionally, new laws target “rogue” district attorneys, restrict transgender athletes in college sports, and prohibit transition-related care for transgender youth. Changes to university tenure policies, assistance to rural sheriff’s offices, and a ban on COVID-19 mandates are also among the laws set to take effect.

Overall, these new laws represent a significant shift in policy and regulation in Texas, with implications for residents across the state.