TSCRA government and public affairs staff and leaders continue to work diligently on pending legislation as the 86th Texas Legislative Session continues.

This week marked the passing of several important deadlines. Most notably, bills filed in the House of Representatives must be passed by the full House by the end of the day Friday, May 10 to stay alive. There are some exceptions, but this deadline will significantly narrow the number of bills that still have a chance.

Some bills beneficial to Texas ranchers have already passed both chambers and are destined for the governor’s desk, and hopefully his signature. TSCRA is working hard to ensure other good bills continue to move forward in the legislative process. Those bills cover subjects such as municipal annexation requirements, changes to ag and open space property tax valuation, water rights, law enforcement and more.

Most importantly, S.B. 421, TSCRA’s effort to improve the eminent domain process, is still alive. After a marathon committee hearing April 26, negotiations with bill opponents continue. It must be voted out of the House Committee on Land and Resource Management next week to stay viable.

As of Friday, there are 17 days, including weekends, left in the legislative session.