AUSTIN - With Republicans firmly in control of the Texas Legislature, the 2025 session could offer plenty of cultural conflict issues that appeal to many GOP voters and activists, but lawmakers are also expected to mix bread and butter with their red meat.
Conversations with nearly a dozen lawmakers and legislative staffers indicate the session could focus on improving the state's infrastructure and adding safeguards against ever-changing technology, including artificial intelligence.
"Everybody knows what a priority that [school choice] is for the governor," said Robert Black, Abbott's chief of staff.
Education
Abbott says he has enough votes in the Legislature to approve a plan allowing Texas families to use public money to attend private schools. The proposal, which involves publicly funded education savings accounts, has been defeated in the Legislature by a bipartisan coalition of urban and rural legislators.
The fallout from this year's hard-fought primary elections, in which Abbott used his resources to oust some House lawmakers who blocked his plan, has led proponents to predict a voucher-style program will pass next year. Such a plan could be joined with increased dollars for public schools and teacher pay raises, as some lawmakers against Abbott's plan will work to get the best deal possible.
The emergence of a new House speaker could change the calculation in the House on school choice, particularly if blocking the proposal is part of a deal the new speaker makes with Democrats.
Other Education Issues
Other education issues could be top of mind for lawmakers, including discipline in public schools. Some teachers have complained that some students are increasingly out of control.
"We also need to make sure our state is protected from cyberattacks," Black said.
Property Tax Relief
Texas can expect another significant budget surplus, so Abbott and some lawmakers are pushing for another major property tax relief package. Last year, lawmakers -- after contentious debate -- voted for a historic $18 billion property tax cut. With a surplus projected at $20 billion, another relief package is likely.
Infrastructure Improvements
Since a 2021 winter storm left millions of Texans without power and water, lawmakers have made fixes to the energy grid. Expect more fortification next year as ERCOT's meteorologist predicts an elevated chance for extreme weather this winter.
"People want to make sure we have a fortified grid," said Darrell Davila, Patrick's chief of staff.
Water Supply Concerns
Taken into consideration alongside rapid population growth are concerns about ensuring Texans have enough water going forward. Partly due to aging infrastructure; it's an issue requiring multiple legislative sessions for resolution.
Artificial Intelligence
The emergence of AI means dramatic changes in how we live and conduct business; however it poses risks too. A special House committee investigates ways AI can be properly utilized moving ahead.