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New Texas Laws to Affect Education and Legislative Actions
As of December 4, about a dozen new laws will become part of Texas legislation, following a special session during which meaningful changes were made to the state's educational and political landscape. One of the most significant changes will come through House Bill 8, which overhauls the standardized testing system currently in use. Instead of the well-known State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR), students from third to 12th grade can expect a new, less stressful approach involving three shorter exams starting in the 2027-28 school year.
Rep. Brad Buckley (R-Salado), the driving force behind HB 8, expressed that the new testing format is designed to alleviate the anxiety associated with high-stakes testing and provide teachers and students with timely feedback. This shift in testing aims to grant educators and students the tools they need throughout the academic year rather than solely relying on an end-of-year exam.
Political Checks and Balances Enhanced
Another noteworthy piece of legislation, House Bill 18, aims to deter legislators from using quorum-breaking as a political tactic. This strategy was notably employed by dozens of Texas House Democrats to thwart a Republican-backed congressional redistricting plan during the summer. Once implemented, this law will introduce consequences for those who engage in quorum-breaking activities, including the suspension of fundraising activities during such actions. Violators could potentially face fines up to $5,000 for political donations received during a quorum break.
Ensuring Community Engagement and Functionality
The latest laws are reflective of an ongoing commitment to address both educational reform and the need for civil political engagement in the Texas Legislature. As these changes take root, residents can expect new norms in how public education functions, as well as a system that has built-in checks to ensure legislative accountability.
Stay Informed about Local Developments
As Texans, it's essential to remain informed about how these laws will directly impact our education system and political framework. Whether you’re a parent watching for changes in school assessments or a resident curious about political developments, these new laws are pivotal.
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