New laws in Texas that go into effect in December are impacting Houston: education, immigration, health, taxes, and more. More details here.
This December and early January, a series of new laws in Texas begin to apply that could have a direct impact on communities such as Houston. From changes to the education system and new social policies to tax and security reforms, the package of legislation reflects the state government’s priorities on key issues such as health, immigration, and civil rights.
Although many of these new laws in Texas were approved during the 2025 legislative session, their implementation begins now due to scheduled dates or recent ballot results in November. Here we present a summary of the new laws in Texas that could affect your day-to-day life if you live in the Houston metropolitan area.
Abortion: drug distributors may be sued
One of the most controversial measures is House Bill 7, which authorizes anyone to sue those who manufacture or distribute abortion drugs into or out of Texas. This law does not punish patients, but those who enable access to these treatments. Plaintiffs could receive up to $100,000 if they are connected to the fetus.
Advocacy groups for abortion rights argue that the law fosters a culture of civil vigilantism, while its proponents say it strengthens protection of life.
Education: end of the traditional STAAR
House Bill 8 represents a major change in the school assessment system: it will replace the STAAR exam with three shorter tests administered during the school year. Although the law is already in effect, changes are expected to start reflecting from the 2026–2027 school year.
In Houston, this shift aims to reduce pressure on students and teachers, and recover learning time in the classrooms.
Punishments for lawmakers who break quorum
Another new law in Texas is House Bill 18, which sanctions lawmakers who break quorum to stall votes, a practice used by the opposition during previous sessions. Consequences include loss of committees, restrictions on political funding, and fines.
Restrictions for transgender people in public spaces
Senate Bill 8, distinct from the one mentioned earlier, imposes restrictions on the use of public restrooms based on the sex assigned at birth. It applies in schools, universities, government buildings, and shelters. Institutions that violate this rule could be fined up to $125,000.
LGBTQ+ organizations in Houston and at the state level have denounced that this measure fosters discrimination and puts the safety of transgender people at risk.
Dementia Institute paused due to election-related lawsuit
Although voters approved an amendment to fund the Texas Institute for Dementia Prevention and Research, its implementation is paused due to a lawsuit challenging the electronic voting system used in November.
In a city like Houston, where an aging population is a reality, this kind of research could be key to improving the quality of life for many families.
Over-the-counter ivermectin
With House Bill 25, Texas will allow the sale of ivermectin without a prescription. This drug, approved for veterinary use, was promoted during the pandemic as an alternative treatment despite not being officially approved for COVID-19.
Public health experts in Houston have warned about the risks of self-medicating, but supporters argue that the law protects Texans’ medical freedom.
Neighborhood safety without county approval
House Bill 26 authorizes sheriffs, such as the Harris County Sheriff, to sign contracts directly with neighborhood associations or school groups to provide security, without requiring approval from the commissioners’ court.
In Houston, this measure could facilitate agreements with neighborhoods seeking a constant police presence, though some officials warn about the lack of budget oversight.
Migration obligations for sheriffs
One of the Texas laws with the greatest impact among migrant communities is the one that obliges state and local jails to cooperate with ICE under the 287(g) program. This includes sharing data on detainees and performing basic immigration-control tasks in exchange for state funds.
In Harris County, human rights activists have expressed concern about a potential increase in racial profiling and unjust detentions.
Protection for human trafficking victims
Senate Bill 11 protects trafficking victims who have committed offenses under coercion, deceit, or manipulation. They will be exempt from certain criminal charges, provided the offenses are not serious crimes such as homicide or sexual assault. Houston, considered one of the cities with the highest incidence of trafficking in the United States, could see significant changes with this legislation.
Tax incentives for businesses
Starting in January, one of the new laws in Texas takes effect: House Bill 9, which exempts commercial inventory from taxes up to $125,000. While this is good news for small businesses in Houston, it could also lead to local tax revenue losses if rates are not adjusted.
