May 1, 2025

Brazos County Legislators Outline Key Priorities for Session

News Summary

State Senator Charles Schwertner recently discussed important legislative priorities for Texas during an interview, including a bill for controlling insurance rate hikes and the introduction of a Texas Digital Currency. Meanwhile, Brazos County commissioners approved a realignment of voting precincts to comply with state law. The new legislative session begins with over 2,600 bills pre-filed, focusing on property tax reforms and public education funding, highlighting a commitment to address pressing issues affecting Texans.

Brazos County—State Senator Charles Schwertner recently participated in an interview on WTAW’s The Infomaniacs, where he outlined key legislative priorities for the upcoming Texas legislative session, which commenced on April 29, 2025. Schwertner emphasized various topics including a bill aimed at controlling insurance rate hikes, the introduction of a Texas DOGE (Digital Currency), an increase in the homestead exemption for disabled and older Texans, and legislation known as the Texas Women’s Privacy Act. Additionally, he raised proposals to rename the Gulf of Mexico, demonstrating a broad array of interests within the state’s legislative agenda.

Amidst the discussions, the Brazos County commissioners made headlines by unanimously approving a realignment of voting precincts on April 29, 2025. This decision followed the recommendations of Trudy Hancock, the elections administrator, who proposed updates for 50 different precincts to comply with state law requirements, which mandate precinct updates in March or April of odd-numbered years. The approved changes, which involved combining and splitting precincts, aimed to refine the voting process while having a minimal impact on voters, who can use any voting center in the county.

In a lighter moment prior to the legislative session, both of Brazos County’s new representatives were humorously introduced as they presented their first legislation on the floor of the House. This interaction highlighted the camaraderie and light-hearted spirit of the legislative process as new representatives adapt to their roles.

On April 24, 2025, the Brazos County City Council recognized Brison Park in College Station, which was named one of the 64 Lone Star Legacy Parks by the Texas Recreation and Parks Society. During the council meeting, a proclamation was issued to honor the park’s legacy and its historical significance to the community, illustrating the county’s commitment to preserving its natural and historical resources.

As the new legislative session opened, over 2,600 bills were pre-filed, marking an extensive agenda for Texas lawmakers. Senator Lois Kolkhorst, representing District 18, has begun to concentrate her efforts on property tax reforms and proposed legislation to prevent foreign land ownership, specifically targeting nations like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. Her concerns also extend to public school teacher raises and improving the reliability of the Texas power grid.

Schwertner’s legislative focus includes addressing “kitchen table” issues that affect everyday Texans, such as infrastructure related to water, roads, broadband, and electricity. He highlighted the critical need for a reliable electric grid, especially during emergencies, and has expressed staunch support for local enforcement of immigration laws through the 287(G) program.

Both Schwertner and Kolkhorst share a strong emphasis on property tax relief and educational choices for families in Texas. Additionally, the leaders of the Texas A&M University System are expected to testify on their budget bill in the coming weeks, advocating for necessary funding to support staffing initiatives and investments in nuclear energy.

As part of the Senate’s budget bill, $53 million has been allocated for group health insurance for state employees, alongside $24 million earmarked for potential salary raises. Schwertner has voiced a commitment to ensure that higher education receives full funding and has called for the elimination of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs from public universities, which furthers the ongoing discussion around educational funding and priorities within Texas.

As these legislative developments unfold, the focus remains on addressing significant state issues and advancing policies that impact the lives of constituents across Brazos County and the greater Texas region.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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Tragic Day in Bryan: Community Mourns the Loss of Sylvia Harris
Senator Schwertner Navigates Legislative Agenda Amid Controversy
College Station Faces Budget Challenges as CSISD Plans for Next School Year
Brazos County Officials Address Key Education and Budget Issues
College Station Officials Address Community Concerns
Bryan City Council Advances Key Projects and Initiatives
Bryan Secures Property Tax Breaks for New Semiconductor Complex
Brazos County Senator Faces Legal Troubles Amid Controversies

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE COLLEGE WRITER

The COLLEGE STATION STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECollegeStation.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in College Station, Brazos County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Brazos Valley Fair & Rodeo, Chilifest, and Aggie Muster. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Brazos Valley, plus leading businesses in education, biotechnology, and retail that power the local economy such as Texas A&M University, Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, and H-E-B. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.

STAFF HERE COLLEGE WRITER

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