The 89th Texas Legislative Session, which adjourned on June 2, 2025, left much to be desired for Texas taxpayers. Despite our relentless advocacy for limited government, reduced spending, and the elimination of oppressive taxes, the session saw persistent government growth and neglected key priorities such as comprehensive property tax reform and relief, curbing corporate welfare, and ending taxpayer-funded lobbying.
Nevertheless, Texans for Fiscal Responsibility (TFR) is proud to spotlight several hard-won legislative victories that align with our mission of fiscal conservatism, economic freedom, and accountability to taxpayers. These bills represent meaningful steps forward for Texas taxpayers.
SJR 18: Blocking a Capital Gains Tax***
Senate Joint Resolution 18 (SJR 18) proposes a constitutional amendment to prohibit a state capital gains tax, safeguarding Texans from a tax that would penalize wealth creation and deter investment. This measure, which awaits voter approval, reflects a strong step towards prohibiting future burdensome taxes and fostering economic liberty.
SB 12: Empowering Parental Rights
Senate Bill 12 (SB 12) strengthens the role of parents in public education by enhancing transparency and access to school curricula and records. This legislation ensures families, not bureaucrats, guide their children’s education, aligning with TFR’s advocacy for individual liberty and limited government interference. SB 12 is a victory for parental authority and taxpayer interests.
SB 17: Safeguarding Texas Land
Senate Bill 17 (SB 17) prohibits certain foreign entities and aliens from purchasing Texas real property, addressing national security concerns and protecting the state’s economic sovereignty. By preventing hostile actors from acquiring strategic assets and real property, SB 17 prioritizes taxpayer safety and aligns with TFR’s mission to ensure Texas remains secure and prosperous.
SB 33/HB 3053: Curbing Wasteful Spending
Senate Bill 33 (SB 33) and House Bill 3053 (HB 3053) deliver targeted wins against the misuse of taxpayer funds. SB 33 bars local governments from financing abortion-related travel, ensuring public dollars respect Texas values. HB 3053 prohibits funding for gun buyback programs, which often serve as political posturing rather than effective policy. Both bills advance TFR’s goal of eliminating wasteful spending and promoting fiscal responsibility.
HB 21: Reforming Housing Finance Corporations
House Bill 21 (HB 21) reforms Housing Finance Corporations (HFCs), introducing transparency and accountability to prevent abuse and protect taxpayers from corporate welfare. By establishing clear boundaries and requiring audits, this bill curbs the misuse of public funds for housing projects, aligning with TFR’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and reducing government overreach.
HB 1056: Pioneering a Gold-Backed Currency
House Bill 1056 (HB 1056) establishes the framework for a gold-backed digital currency, offering Texans a shield against inflation and federal monetary overreach. This forward-thinking measure promotes financial independence and protects taxpayers from the fallout of reckless federal policies.
SB 8: Strengthening Immigration Enforcement
Senate Bill 8 (SB 8) bolsters public safety by requiring sheriffs to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement efforts. This legislation ensures taxpayer resources are not strained by illegal immigration, reinforcing Texas’ commitment to law and order. TFR supported SB 8 as a critical step toward securing our borders and communities.
SB 379: Promoting Responsible Public Assistance
Senate Bill 379 (SB 379) restricts SNAP benefits from being used to purchase sweets, ensuring taxpayer-funded programs prioritize essential nutrition, curbing the misuse of public resources.
The Fight Continues
While these victories, and many others, mark progress for taxpayers, there is a need for continued vigilance. Texans for Fiscal Responsibility remains resolute in our mission to hold elected officials accountable and champion policies that shrink government and empower taxpayers. We call on Texans to stay engaged, contact their representatives, and support our efforts to drive transformative reform for taxpayers and families.
*** Measures like SJR 18 require voter approval in order to become law.
Texans for Fiscal Responsibility relies on the support of private donors across the Lone Star State in order to promote fiscal responsibility and pro-taxpayer government in Texas. Please consider supporting our efforts! Thank you!
Get The Fiscal Note, our free weekly roll-up on all the current events that could impact your wallet. Subscribe today!
