Tracking the 89th Legislative Session: A Fight for Freedom in Texas

TRACK THE ANTI-LGBTQ BILLS IN THE TEXAS LEGISLATURE: CLICK HERE

In recent years, LGBTQIA+ Texans have faced mounting restrictions on their rights—limitations that extend beyond just the queer community and into the fundamental freedoms of all Texans. The fight to love freely, think independently, and live authentically is one that requires collective action from people across all walks of life.
   During the last legislative session, 96% of the 160 proposed bills were blocked by the work of the group at Equality Texas that sought to strip away rights from LGBTQIA+ Texans.
This victory was possible thanks to the dedication of advocates, allies, and community members who took a stand for equality. But the fight isn’t over. Continued vigilance and activism is needed to defend personal freedoms in the Lone Star State. Stay active and contact your legislators to make you voice and choices known as they approach their work representing YOU!
How Does a Bill Become Law?
Legislation follows a rigorous process before becoming law. Here’s how it unfolds:
1.    A bill is filed.
2.    It is referred to a House or Senate committee for review.
3.    The committee holds a hearing to discuss and debate the bill.
4.    If approved, the committee sends the bill to the full chamber (House or Senate).
5.    The bill undergoes a first floor vote, followed by a second floor vote.
6.    If passed, the bill moves to the other chamber (House or Senate) and the process starts over.
7.    If approved by both chambers, the bill is sent to the Governor for signing into law.
Understanding this process is crucial for those looking to advocate for change. Every step provides an opportunity to engage, testify, and push back against harmful legislation. If a bill makes it to the opposite chamber from where it originated—such as a House bill being referred to a Senate committee—it’s further along in the process and requires even greater attention.
The road to justice is paved with action. By staying informed and involved, we can continue to push back against legislation that threatens the rights of LGBTQIA+ Texans and work toward a future where freedom truly belongs to all.