Election Day is upon us, unfolding like a cinematic drama packed with thrills, cheers, and maybe a few tears. Some will celebrate the results, others may feel disillusioned, and some will simply move on. But one thing is certain: the sun will rise in the East and set in the West—and if it doesn’t, then we have far bigger issues to face.
We could talk endlessly about the election—who’s the best candidate, who should get our vote, whether to vote as a block, or even to vote at all. Voting is essential; it’s how we choose the people who will make decisions that affect our lives. When we don’t vote, we silence our voices.
Public education is expected to be a major issue this session in Texas, and the push for school vouchers—public subsidies for private education—is likely to be at the forefront. It’s unfortunate that this debate often overshadows the immediate needs of our public school system and the students it serves.
So, is it a sit and wait until January?
The 89th Texas Legislative Session officially kicks off on January 14, 2025, at noon. But the real action begins well before that. The first day legislators can file bills for this session is November 12, 2024—just a week after Election Day. So, while the election may feel like the finish line, it’s really the starting gate for legislative action.
Key Dates for the 89th Legislature
- Tuesday, November 5, 2024 – General election for federal, state, and county offices
- Tuesday, November 12, 2024 – First day for filing bills for the 89th Legislature
- Tuesday, January 14, 2025 (1st day) – Legislature convenes at noon
- Friday, March 14, 2025 (60th day) – Deadline for filing bills
- Monday, June 2, 2025 (140th day) – Last day of the 89th Regular Session (Sine die)
Getting to Know the Key Players
Understanding the key players in the 89th Texas Legislature is crucial for effective advocacy. These individuals hold significant influence over the legislative process and can shape the outcome of bills and policies. Here’s a breakdown of the key players and committees to watch:
Two Chambers
- Texas House of Representatives: The lower chamber with 150 members elected to two-year terms from population-based districts. The Speaker of the House, elected by the members, leads the chamber.
- Texas Senate: The upper chamber with 31 members elected to four-year staggered terms from geographic districts. The Lieutenant Governor of Texas presides over the Senate.
Key Committees for Public Education
- Public Education Committee (Texas House of Representatives): This committee oversees public education policy in Texas, including funding, curriculum standards, and accountability measures.
- Education Committee (Texas Senate): This committee is responsible for shaping education policy in Texas, including funding, accountability, and curriculum standards.
Important Leadership
- Governor Greg Abbott: As the state’s chief executive, Abbott plays a crucial role in setting the legislative agenda and signing or vetoing bills.
- Speaker of the House, Dade Phelan: As the leader of the Texas House of Representatives, Phelan sets the legislative agenda and controls the flow of legislation.
- Lieutenant Governor, Dan Patrick: As the presiding officer of the Texas Senate, Patrick wields considerable power over the Senate’s agenda and committee assignments.
As we gear up for the 89th Texas Legislative Session, it’s essential to stay informed and engaged. The decisions made in this session will have lasting impacts on public education and many other critical areas. So, ready or not, here we go—let’s make our voices heard and advocate for the changes we want to see.
