Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has unveiled a second set of interim charges for the state Senate to delve into before the 89th Legislature convenes in January 2025. According to the Office of the Lieutenant Governor, these charges, stemming from suggestions by the 31 Texas Senators, will be the subject of possible upcoming interim hearings. Patrick stated, "When I issued my first round of interim charges, I indicated there may be a second list to come later."

Patrick's announcement outlines a range of policy areas that Senate committees will explore, and following these hearings, committees are expected to submit their reports with findings and recommendations by December 1, 2024. The lieutenant governor emphasized the importance of these studies, saying, "At the beginning of the 89th Legislative Session in January 2025, the Senate will hit the ground running to ensure the priorities of the conservative majority of Texans are accomplished, including school choice, continued property tax relief, and strengthening our power grid." The full list of interim charges can be reviewed on the lieutenant governor's official website.

Specifics on the hearings timeline and the scope of the policy issues are still unfolding. Stakeholders, ranging from policy advocates to business leaders, will be paying close attention to these developments as they could signal shifts in legislative priorities and the political climate within the state. The lieutenant governor's office has not yet provided details on how they will address input from the public or opposing viewpoints during this interim period. More information, as well as the lieutenant governor's initial list of charges, can be accessed via their website.