The new year rings in dozens of new laws for Texans - KEYE TV CBS Austin
The new year will ring in several new laws for Texans. Twenty-three bills will be made law starting Jan. 1, following six bills going into effect on the 18th. Renters’ rights, veteran benefits, bail reform and police budgeting are just a few of the subjects. But perhaps one of the most controversial pieces of legislature are restrictions for transgendered athletes.
Governor Gregg Abbott backed the bill that will require K-12 school athletes to participate in sports that align with their gender identity on their birth certificate. This means transgender students will not be allowed to play on teams they identify with starting January 18. Advocate for the LGBTQ community, Molly Wills Carnes and co-author of the itchy sweater, a book inspired by her trans daughter feels the law is going to be hard to implement.
“It puts a burden on the schools to verify birth certificates and to vet people and children in a way that I don't think is going to be easily or safely done,” Carnes said
Carnes adds she would like to see the legislature allow the UIL to govern themselves.
“Personally, for me, listening to senators talking about children's genitalia was one of the most disturbing experiences of my life. That should have been a red flag to them, that this legislation was going too far,” Carnes said.
Texas renters can also expect some changes. As of now, Texas landlords don’t have to share if their property resides in a flood-prone area or has been damaged by flooding. That all changes in January, as the state will now require flood disclosure to tenants.
And dog owners should be aware of a new law against unlawful restraint of dogs. The new law prohibits owners from leaving their dogs restrained outside unless they have water and shelter.
Other laws include:
- Possible tax breaks for chicken and rabbit owners
- Voter approval for police budget cuts
- Tax breaks for homes in historic districts
- Quicker homestead exemption
- Cash bail on violent crimes
Starting Jan. 1, those who are charged with a violent crime will be blocked from being released on a personal bond due to a new bail reform law. Veterans and their families are also included in the new legislature. A new law will open the door for more benefits. The new laws were passed during the 87th Legislature Regular Session that lasted nearly five months.
source: https://cbsaustin.com/news/local/the-new-year-rings-in-dozens-of-new-laws-for-texans
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