SB 1826 establishes requirements for career and technology education (CTE) programs in Texas public schools, ensuring all secondary and postsecondary students have access to these programs. It mandates that CTE programs must provide industry-recognized credentials, college credit opportunities, and align with federal funding rules, while requiring school districts to offer dual credit courses within these programs. The bill also creates a new "Military Pathway Grant Program" to fund Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) programs, including administering aptitude tests and annual career counseling. These changes directly affect Texas public school districts, students, and educators by shaping CTE program standards and expanding pathway options.
This is a commemorative resolution (not a policy bill) passed by the Texas Senate to honor Dennis Watters III, a Willow Park resident who died on February 16, 2025, at age 81. The resolution recognizes his 28-year military service (U.S. Army Reserve and National Guard), his 50+ year marriage to Sherry, his roles in church communities, and his later passion for motorcycles. It formally pays tribute to his life and extends condolences to his wife, children (John and Michelle), granddaughter (Taylor), and other family members. The resolution has no policy impact - it serves solely as a ceremonial memorial.
HB 5167 allows Texas National Guard members called to state active duty for 60+ consecutive days to join the Employees Retirement System of Texas (ERS) during that service period. It specifically applies to Guard members serving under state authority (not federal orders), making them eligible for ERS membership and retirement benefits while on state duty. The bill creates new rules for establishing membership, calculating service credit, and collecting contributions during this temporary state employment. Existing Guard members who already completed 60+ consecutive days of state duty before the law takes effect are automatically eligible without the waiting period. This policy change directly affects Texas National Guard service members during state active duty assignments.
HB 3246 establishes a state-mandated resilience training program for Texas first responders (as defined in Government Code Section 421.095) and active duty military personnel, including Texas National Guard members. The Health and Human Services Commission, Texas Department of Public Safety, and Texas Military Department must jointly develop and provide this program both in-person and online to help these groups transition from service to daily life. The program must be implemented by September 1, 2025, as required by the bill's effective date.
HB 3142 sets new requirements for school marshals in Texas public and private schools. To qualify, a person must either hold a specific license under Texas law or be a volunteer who is a veteran, active military member, peace officer, reserve officer, or retired peace officer. School districts, charter schools, private schools, and public junior colleges must appoint marshals meeting these standards. The bill also allows school districts to reimburse volunteers for training costs related to the marshal role. This directly affects school districts, volunteers, and individuals seeking to serve as school marshals.
HB 290 would provide tuition and fee exemptions at Texas colleges for qualifying members of the Texas military forces (including National Guard and State Guard). It requires public and private institutions to waive tuition for up to 15 semester credit hours per term (increasing from 12) and all mandatory fees when tuition is waived. The program limits assistance to 15 credit hours per term and a maximum of seven academic years or 15 semesters total per service member. The Texas Adjutant General would certify eligible members and administer the program within available funding, with specific caps for Texas State Guard members (30 awards per term unless a compelling need is found).
SB 683 expands tuition and fee exemptions at Texas public colleges and universities to include honorably discharged veterans who served during specific conflicts (like the Persian Gulf War, 9/11 attacks, and future emergencies) and reserve members (including Texas National Guard and Air National Guard) with at least 20 years of continuous service. Veterans must have served over 180 days on active duty during designated periods, while reserve members qualify for the exemption after 20 years of service. The exemption covers tuition, fees, and other required charges but excludes lodging, board, and clothing fees. The law takes effect September 1, 2025.
SB 635 creates a supplemental pay program for Texas military members (including National Guard) who face economic hardship due to serving on active duty. It allows eligible members to receive payments up to the lesser of the hardship amount or the difference between lost civilian income and military pay received. The bill establishes a dedicated funding account in the general revenue fund, which can be supported by legislative appropriations, gifts, or grants. This program applies to military duty occurring on or after September 1, 2025, with payments subject to available funds.
Texas Senate Bill 252 extends protections under the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children to two specific groups: (1) children of veterans who retired (for four years after retirement if they return home on military orders), and (2) children of service members who died on duty (for four years after death). The bill requires all Texas public school districts and charter schools to post an easily accessible link on their websites about these protections and the compact. This law takes effect for the 2025-2026 school year.
SB 1134 provides tuition and mandatory fee exemptions at Texas public and private colleges for active members of the Texas military forces. It requires institutions to waive tuition for up to 12 semester credit hours per semester (capped at $12,000 annually) and all mandatory fees for qualifying students. Eligible service members can receive this aid for up to five academic years or 10 semesters, whichever comes first. The bill also limits Texas State Guard recipients to 30 awards per semester unless the adjutant general approves additional awards.
