Texas Legislature Faces Key Bill Deadline on Education, Technology, Bail Reform

The Texas legislature is in its final week of the 89th legislative session, facing a critical Wednesday midnight deadline to pass key bills. Both the Texas House and Senate are rushing to approve legislation on issues including drag performance restrictions in public libraries, self-driving car regulation, parental oversight of school library content, and bail reform. Some bills, such as the school funding measure and a constitutional amendment on bail reform, have yet to pass, increasing pressure on lawmakers. The House recently approved immigration-related legislation requiring sheriffs to cooperate with federal authorities and passed reforms to the Texas Lottery Commission. Meanwhile, Governor Greg Abbott signed a law clarifying that only U.S. citizens may vote in Texas elections. In Illinois, lawmakers are also nearing the end of their Spring Session with a May 31 deadline to pass the state budget and address transit funding, with potential severe cuts looming; meanwhile, several bills including Anna's Law for police training on sexual assault and legislation easing the removal of squatters await the governor's signature.