89th Texas Legislature Kicks Off Tuesday: Key Details and Expectations

The 89th Texas Legislature is set to kick off on Tuesday, uniting 150 state representatives and 31 senators for what is anticipated to be a significant session.

Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson will manage the initial setup of the House of Representatives, which includes appointing temporary officers to facilitate the process until a Speaker of the House is chosen. Secretary Nelson has appointed Walter Fisher and Sharon Carter as parliamentarians for the inauguration, highlighting their considerable parliamentary experience.

“This duo possesses significant parliamentary expertise and the experience necessary to lead the commencement of the 89th Legislative Session,” Nelson stated. “We will guarantee that the organization of the House is conducted in a fair, transparent, and orderly manner.”

After the election of a Speaker, members of the House will put forward and vote on amendments to the rules that will dictate the chamber's operations for the duration of the session.

Election for the Speaker of the House

Three candidates are presently competing for the role of Speaker of the Texas House:

• Representative Ana-Maria Ramos, a member of the Democratic Party
• Representative Dustin Burrows, a member of the Republican Party
• David Cook, a member of the Republican Party

The selected Speaker will be instrumental in influencing the legislative agenda and deciding on committee assignments.

Comptroller Glen Hegar is also anticipated to unveil the Biennial Revenue Estimate, detailing the budget surplus that lawmakers may allocate throughout the session. This announcement will attract significant attention as lawmakers address funding for infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other vital matters.

Governor Greg Abbott is set to reveal his list of emergency items, outlining priority legislation that will be eligible for expedited consideration during the initial 60 days of the session.

More than 2,400 bills have been filed, showcasing the variety of topics that lawmakers will tackle during the session. The legislative agenda addresses critical issues for Texas residents, ranging from property tax reform to education funding and energy infrastructure.

The swearing-in of all 181 lawmakers will take place, officially commencing the Legislature's work on Tuesday. This marks the start of debates and decisions that will influence Texas policy for years ahead.

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