May 4, 2025
NEWS DIGEST
by Brandon Waltens
Good morning,
Legislation cracking down on explicit sexual content in Texas school libraries is on its way to the governor’s desk, marking the first Republican Party of Texas priority bill this session to clear both chambers.
Senate Bill 412, by State Sen. Mayes Middleton (R–Galveston) and carried in the House by State Rep. Jared Patterson (R–Frisco), passed the Texas House on Friday.
The Senate approved the measure earlier in the session.
The bill removes broad exemptions in Texas law that currently shield school officials, librarians, and others from prosecution for distributing material deemed harmful to minors, so long as it is for an “educational purpose.”
Senate Bill 412 narrows that exemption, allowing only law enforcement and judicial officers to use such a defense when charged under obscenity laws.
During debate, House Democrats spoke in opposition to the bill, saying the legislation attacks school librarians.
In response, State Rep. Mitch Little (R–Lewisville) stated, “Teachers and librarians that intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly expose children to harmful content should be in fear in the State of Texas.”
The bill passed in a bipartisan 99-31 vote.
The legislation stems from concerns raised by parents and Republican lawmakers over sexually explicit books found in Texas public and school libraries. Its passage marks progress for GOP lawmakers who have prioritized removing such content as part of broader efforts to protect minors. In a statement, the Republican Party of Texas called it a “huge win for Texas children.”
Featured
The Texas House has approved legislation by former Speaker Dade Phelan that would criminalize the distribution of altered political media, such as memes, videos, or audio recordings, unless they contain a government-mandated disclaimer.
Despite tweaks in a recently adopted committee substitute, the bill continues to face intense criticism from First Amendment advocates who warn it would chill political speech and satire.
Real Texans
In this week’s edition of REAL TEXANS, Michael Quinn Sullivan travels to the Metroplex studio of radio legend Mark Davis. The conversation covers his career, his love of music, and even how listeners can be better callers.
New interviews with REAL TEXANS every Sunday!
State
Abbott Signs School Choice Bill During Celebration at Governor’s Mansion
Gov. Abbott hailed the measure as “the largest day-one school of choice program in the United States.”
Conservative Lawmakers Warn Texas House Is Running Out of Time To Pass GOP Priorities
As the regular legislative session heads into its final weeks, conservative House members say leadership needs to move quickly to address Republican priorities.
Texas Lottery Commissioners Finalize Ban on Ticket Resellers
The move comes amid pressure from lawmakers to take action on ticket resellers and address connections to suspicious jackpot winnings.
Local
Houston City Council Will Vote on Race-Based Contracting Program
City officials believe the existing program must be updated since it favors groups that do not face a disadvantage in the market.
Central Texas Teacher, Coach Arrested for Sex With Student
Lily Janek taught at Mullin ISD in Brownwood.
Alleged Child Predator Arrested Again While Out on Bond in Galveston
Taylor Roy has been arrested again for invasive recording of minors.
Federal
Fourth Time’s the Charm? Beto O’Rourke Hints at Another Run
Voters have told him no three times already—Beto’s hoping the fourth time will finally be different.
USDA Secures Water Delivery Agreement With Mexico for Texas Farmers
Mexico has failed to meet the demands of a water treaty with the U.S. for the past few years.
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