Texas Senate Bill 14 Creates Regulatory Efficiency Office

Texas is poised to establish its own Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) after both chambers of the state legislature passed Senate Bill 14, which aims to streamline state regulations and reduce bureaucratic red tape. The bill, modeled after a federal agency created by President Trump, would create a Texas Regulatory Office within the governor's office and an advisory panel composed of business owners, citizens, state agencies, and researchers to help identify and eliminate unnecessary regulations. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has expressed strong support for the legislation, citing its potential to save taxpayers and businesses money while maintaining a strong state economy. The bill also requires agencies to write rules in plain language, reduce paperwork and fees, justify new regulations with cost-benefit analyses, and gives courts more authority to challenge agency interpretations of laws. Governor Greg Abbott has not yet indicated whether he will sign the bill into law, leaving some uncertainty about its final approval. The measure has been praised for its bipartisan support and focus on improving government efficiency.