West DFW News

This week saw significant legislative progress in Texas, with several bills moving forward. Four bills aimed at reforming the bail system were passed by the full Senate. These include SJR 1, which mandates the denial of bail for illegal aliens accused of felonies; SB 9, designed to strengthen the bail system and protect communities; SJR 5, allowing Texas to detain habitual violent felony offenders without bond; and SB 40, which prohibits taxpayer money from being used on bail bonds.

In education, Senate Bill 26 advanced through the Senate Education Committee. This bill proposes pay raises for teachers in Texas, aiming to provide them opportunities to earn over $100,000 annually. It also seeks to improve the Teacher Incentive Allotment and offers free PreK for teachers' children along with statewide teacher liability insurance.

Brown County Day was celebrated at the Texas Capitol this week. The county is a key economic hub in central Texas and home to major manufacturers like 3M and Kohler. Several local leaders visited the Capitol, including Brown County Republican Party Chairman Robert Porter and Brownwood City Councilman Draco Miller.

Manufacturing jobs were recognized during Texas Manufacturers’ Day at the Capitol. Senate Resolution 103 highlighted manufacturing's impact on employment in Senate District 10 and across Texas. The district employs over 48,000 people in manufacturing sectors such as aerospace, defense, oil and gas.

The Texas Senate honored Riley Gaines for her leadership after she was forced to compete against a transgender athlete in college swimming. Gaines has become a national figure advocating for fair competition laws that have been enacted both locally and nationally.

Additionally, Senator Pete Flores joined colleagues at the Annual Texas Legislative Prayer Breakfast where former baseball player Darryl Strawberry spoke about redemption and hope.

Texas Game Wardens were also honored for their work protecting wildlife and natural resources. Arlington ISD trustees Sarah McMurrough and Brooklyn Richardson met with legislators this week as well.