Key New Texas Laws Signed by Gov. Abbott Take Effect Immediately
Austin, August 1, 2025 – Today, several major pieces of legislation enacted during the 89th Texas Legislature—signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott—officially take effect. These bills, passed in mid‑June, reflect policy changes across education, taxation, and public health that will impact Texans ahead of the coming school year and fiscal cycle.Texas.govKSATtexaslsg.orgcapitol.texas.gov
Education & Vouchers: A New Pathway Opens
Senate Bill 2 introduces a private school voucher program, enabling qualifying families to receive taxpayer-funded scholarships to attend private or parochial schools. Advocates hail the policy as a boost for parental choice, while critics warn of underfunding in public schools, particularly in rural districts.San Antonio Current+1News From The States+1
Ten Commandments Mandate in Public Classrooms
Senate Bill 10, signed on June 21, mandates that the Ten Commandments be prominently displayed in public school classrooms statewide. This culturally significant law will be effective September 1, but preparation begins now within school districts.Wikipedia
Health Policy: Dementia Research & Vaccine Exemptions
House Bill 5 and Senate Joint Resolution 3 establish the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (DPRIT), initiating long‑term research into Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. DPRIT is expected to be placed on the ballot in November 2025 for voter approval. Meanwhile, House Bill 1586 eases school vaccine exemption rules, raising concerns among public health experts amid rising exemption rates.texaslsg.org
Daily Impact for Texans
-
Individuals applying for school vouchers can now enroll and receive funding beginning this fall.
-
Public schools must comply with signage requirements under S.B. 10 in advance of the law’s September 1 activation.
-
Communities focused on senior healthcare and dementia will be watching DPRIT’s development and future ballot measure.
-
Public health officials are urging caution, citing HB 1586’s potential impact on herd immunity thresholds.The Texas Tribune+2101.5 KNUE+2News From The States+2WikipediaThe Texas Tribune+2texaslsg.org+2San Antonio Current+2
Future Outlook: Ongoing Policy Changes
With the regular legislative session concluded, special sessions may be scheduled before 2027 if key issues remain unresolved. Lawmakers may reconvene to address funding for water infrastructure and potential adjustments to immunization law.San Antonio Current
Conclusion
As of August 1, 2025, Texans begin living under several high-impact laws from the 89th Legislative Session—covering private school vouchers, classroom religious displays, and public health policies. While supporters emphasize parental choice and innovation, critics warn about funding gaps and public health risks. The coming months will reveal how these laws translate into practical outcomes across the state.
Read also: Texas Legislature Closes Out 2025 Session with Sweeping Conservative Agenda
