Rep. Mando Martinez

Maddy summaryHB 106 requires the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to partner with U.S. Homeland Security (DHS) to conduct DNA testing via rapid tests on individuals crossing the Texas-Mexico border between ports of entry who are detained by DHS and suspected of human trafficking offenses under Texas Penal Code Chapter 20A. The bill mandates DPS destroy all biological samples after testing and prohibits DPS from maintaining a DNA database, entering results into federal CODIS systems, or searching existing DNA databases. DHS must cover all costs for this program, and any agreement between DPS and DHS must include these destruction and prohibition requirements. The law directly affects DPS operations, DHS enforcement, and individuals detained for suspected trafficking-related activity.

Maddy summarySB 1383 regulates referral agencies that connect seniors with senior living communities by requiring them to provide clear written disclosures to consumers at the time of referral. The bill mandates that disclosures include details about services, who pays the referral fee (consumer or community), and the consumer's right to stop using the service without penalty. It also prohibits referral agencies from using cost as the sole factor in selecting a community and prevents senior living communities from being forced to contract with referral agencies. This law directly affects referral agencies, seniors seeking housing options, and senior living communities by establishing transparency and consumer protections.

Maddy summaryHB 2970 amends Texas law governing the Gulf Coast Protection District's operations. It changes how the district's presiding officer is selected - requiring the governor to appoint from among directors (instead of election) with a two-term limit - and adds a requirement that district projects must not disrupt navigation safety or two-way traffic in Harris County ports, as defined by transportation rules. The bill directly affects the district's governing board and port operations in Harris County. These changes take effect immediately upon the governor's signature, as specified in the bill.

Maddy summaryHB 3546 allows independent school districts in Texas to change their general election dates for school board officers to the statewide November uniform election date. School districts must adopt a board resolution by December 31, 2030, specifying staggered terms (three or four years) and transition rules for current terms. The change applies only to districts holding elections on non-November dates, with the transition beginning at the next regular election after the resolution. This bill expires January 1, 2036, and repeals prior conflicting provisions in education and election codes. It directly affects school districts seeking to align their election schedules with the state's uniform election cycle.

Maddy summaryHB 1481 requires Texas public school districts and open-enrollment charter schools to adopt written policies prohibiting student use of personal communication devices (such as cell phones, tablets, and smartwatches) during the school day on school property or at school events. Exceptions allow device use for students with documented medical needs, individualized education plans (IEPs), or health/safety protocols. Schools may implement either a full device ban or a secure storage system for devices during school hours, and must return confiscated devices or dispose of them after providing parents 90 days' written notice. The law takes effect immediately upon the governor's signature.

Maddy summaryHB 2854 requires parole officers to approve non-medical hospital visits for certain parolees convicted of specific offenses (listed in Texas law). Releasees must submit advance requests specifying visit details, and parole officers must notify hospitals of approved visits. The bill shields hospitals from liability for damages related to these visits, except in cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct. It applies only to parolees released on or after September 1, 2025, and does not affect those released earlier.

Maddy summaryHB 3689 changes how the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA) funds catastrophic windstorm and hail insurance losses after major disasters. Instead of relying on public securities (which incur high interest costs), the bill authorizes the state to provide loans of up to $500 million before a disaster and $1 billion after one. TWIA would repay these loans through a surcharge on certain windstorm and hail insurance policies in coastal areas. This directly affects coastal property owners who pay these insurance premiums, as the surcharge ensures repayment of state funds used to cover disaster losses.

Maddy summaryHB 3732 allows Texas fire departments to request extensions from the Texas Commission on Fire Protection to meet minimum safety standards. Fire departments must provide evidence justifying the extension, and the Commission must grant it if the evidence is sufficient. The Commission must adopt implementing rules by April 1, 2026, and this extension process expires on September 1, 2027. The bill directly affects local fire departments required to comply with state safety standards.

Maddy summaryHB 33, titled the "Uvalde Strong Act," requires Texas public and charter schools to comply with additional safety and operational requirements related to active shooter incidents and emergencies. It amends the Education Code to mandate adherence to existing rules covering student data systems, criminal background checks, discipline practices, health/safety protocols, bullying prevention, and staff reporting obligations. The bill directly affects all public and charter schools by expanding their compliance obligations under current safety frameworks. It does not create new rules but requires schools to follow more existing provisions related to emergency preparedness and student safety. The law took effect on September 1, 2025, after being signed by the governor.

Maddy summaryHB 4520 requires Texas airports seeking state loans or grants to maintain control over facilities for 20 years, disclose all funding sources and financial capabilities, and secure at least 10% non-state funding (5% in economically disadvantaged counties). It also mandates adequate project planning before state approval. The law applies to all airports receiving state aviation funding and takes effect September 1, 2025. This replaces prior requirements under Transportation Code Section 21.114.