March 31st – Senate Bill 5, Statewide Broadband Access: by Senators Robert Nichols, R-Jacksonville, Kelly Hancock, R-North Richland Hills, Charles Perry, R-Lubbock and Royce West, D-Dallas:
"Expanding broadband across Texas has long been my goal, and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic made expanding our broadband infrastructure even more urgent. Broadband is essential to bridge the digital divide across our state, grow our thriving economy and ensure that Texas remains the best place to live, work and raise a family. I congratulate Senators Nichols, Hancock, Perry and West for passing this critical bill."
Senate Bill 5 creates a State Broadband Development Office through the University of Texas that will create and adopt a state broadband plan within the next year.
April 1st – Senate Bill 12, the Protecting Free Speech on Social Media bill, by Sen. Bryan Hughes, R-Mineola:
“As Americans and as Texans, we treasure our right to free speech, which is why I made protecting free speech on social media a priority this session. . . “
Senate Bill 12 ensures that social media companies, based in Texas or elsewhere, will not be able to exclude participants based on their point of view. The bill ensures that Texans can voice their opinions without fear of being discriminated against by being banned.
March 31st – Senate Bill 24, the Law Enforcement Transparency Act, by Senator Joan Huffman, R-Houston:
“I congratulate Senator Huffman on passing this important legislation. SB 24 will ensure that police departments in Texas have complete information about the law enforcement officers who join their force. Throughout my time serving in the Senate and as Lieutenant Governor, I have been a steadfast supporter of law enforcement officers and first responders who risk their lives, each and every day. SB 24 has strong support from law enforcement and is one more step to help keep our communities safe.”