January 14 saw the beginning of the 89th Texas Legislature. During these 140 days of session, laws drafted by the TX House and Senate will be debated and finalized in Austin. Republicans currently hold both chambers in a conservative majority, which has significant power over the time and resources allotted to each issue. This period, which is only convened in odd numbered years, is crucial to the passing of bills and resolutions that combine into eventual law.
Dan Patrick, the incumbent Lieutenant Governor since 2014, recently listed his priorities, which allow him to set the agenda for the limited meeting time. His prerogatives introduced in Senate Bills 1-25 align themselves with President Trump’s newfound executive orders and initiatives.
Instances include allocating 11 billion dollars of the Texas budget towards Operation Lone Star, which is a force Greg Abott introduced to reduce immigrants from seeking asylum and refugee status at the Texas-Mexican border. Whilst the initiative was introduced in March 2021, the 89th session invites increased funding, federal and state resources, and a ‘crackdown’ on immigration.
These proposals come with an escalation of media coverage, protests, and legal contestation. National news and local networks sustain updates on changes occurring in Austin, many of which cause civil rights and justice groups to sue Texas as well as spur on the citizens protesting outside the capitol and around their local communities. The ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) and Las Americas Immigrant Advocacy Center, are major groups that are often seen filing civil class action lawsuits on the argument of racism underlying the conservative policies introduced.
As TWU alters DEI practices in compliance with SB-17, they and other universities are watchful over future decisions implemented by the heavily conservative Texas legislature. Chancellor Feyten, in response to the changes made in 2023, states that “diversity is part of our identity at Texas Woman’s, and it is an identity we hold dear.” TWU as well as other universities across the state have altered internal systems by renaming departments and their image.
As the session continues, bills are filed and funding is allocated for the next fiscal year. Issues including LGBT+ rights, free speech and other alterations made by the legislature intersects with universities and their students.
On February 5, 2025, in association with the 50501 movement against Project 2025 implementation, protestors gathered in Austin. The movement stands for “50 states, 50 projects, 1 day.” Protestors gathered along the outside of the Capitol building with signs promoting LGBTQ+ solidarity, immigration safety and security, and against Elon Musk and the new administration.
Locally, Denton citizens protested at the square on February 1. Groups gathered in solidarity with immigrants and against ICE. According to the North Texas Daily, 450 people were in attendance against mass deportation.
“As a person who lives in a multi-status family, the threat of ICE in our communities causes a great deal of fear,” stated Giovany (Last name), president of League of Latin American Citizens Denton chapter. “The opportunity to participate in protests has shown us the strength, passion, and determination. With so much fear happening around us, the power of our community shines through to stand up for what’s right and to stand up for our families.”
As the Texas legislature reconvenes once again, the effects have major implications on individual citizens. With the effects often stark and controversial, affecting almost all aspects of life, public policy, regulatory and financial decisions are made by the House and Senate. These conclusions have lasting momentum for Texans’ lives for years to come.
Annalise Soto-Serrano can be reached via email at @asotoserrano@twu.edu
Be First to Comment