Texas Bill Filing Begins as Democrats Take House Control

The 90th session of the Texas Legislature begins Monday with the opening of the bill filing window.

Lawmakers will submit legislation for consideration until March 12. The session itself convenes on Jan. 12. While thousands of bills are expected to be filed, most will not reach the governor's desk. The initial batch submitted Monday provides an early indication of legislative priorities.

The shift in power follows last week's election, which resulted in a Democratic sweep of statewide offices. Gina Hinojosa is set to become governor. Vikki Goodwin, a Democrat, will take office as lieutenant governor and preside over the Senate. Although Republicans retain a majority in the Senate, Democrats will control the House. They will elect a new speaker on the first day of the session to replace Dustin Burrows, the current Republican leader from Lubbock.

Democratic Rep. Senfronia Thompson announced Friday that she secured the necessary votes to win the speaker's gavel. She is the longest-serving woman and the longest-serving Black legislator in any state. The lowest bill numbers are typically assigned to high-priority measures determined by the House speaker and lieutenant governor.

Hinojosa campaigned heavily on reversing Republican education policies, specifically targeting the state's school voucher program. That law, passed in 2025, allows families to use tax dollars for private schooling. Democrats also ran on platforms that included tighter regulations on data center development, reduced restrictions on consumable hemp products, and measures to lower the cost of living.

On Thursday, Hinojosa signaled an intent to collaborate with the Republican-controlled Senate. She announced a transition team that includes members from both parties. "I would hope that elected leaders from both parties don't get in the way of the progress we can make together to deliver for working people," Hinojosa said. "That is our obligation as leaders in this state, and I look forward to working with Republican leaders in the Legislature."

The legislative calendar is set. Bill filing starts Monday and runs through March 12. The chamber convenes on Jan. 12. Democrats will formally elect their House leadership on that first day.