New laws are ushering in the 2026 landscape in Texas, and they are here to shake things up. A wide array of topics is covered, from immigration enforcement to property tax relief, and even how the state deals with the burgeoning field of artificial intelligence. One of the significant changes includes a mandate for sheriffs' offices that have jails to work closely with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. In the words of Sarah Cruz, a policy and advocacy strategist for the ACLU, this new law "will not make our communities safer," emphasising that it will compel sheriffs to undertake the task of ICE, as per The Texas Standard.
Property tax adjustments are also part of the legislation shake-up. State leaders have prioritized slashing taxes across the board. As CBS News reports, House Bill 9 has now exempted up to $125,000 of business personal property from taxation, a move that's been praised by business groups seeking operational cost relief. Voters had already set the stage in November, approving five amendments related to tax deductions, including raising homestead exemptions.
The state hasn't turned a blind eye to the growing discourse around artificial intelligence either. With Congress lagging in AI regulation, Texas lawmakers have taken the reins with the Texas Responsible Artificial Intelligence Governance Act, intended to promote responsible AI deployment. "Address the potential harms of artificial intelligence by establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework," stated Rep. Giovanni Capriglione, the bill's author, according to The Texas Standard. Additionally, House Bill 149 erects new guardrails for AI application by state agencies, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Landlord-tenant dynamics are also in the spotlight, with a new law aimed at rapid eviction of squatters. Although critics worry about the potential for reduced legal protections for tenants, the bill's backers say it's a move to protect property owners' rights. Furthermore, Senate Bill 38 specifies faster court action in eviction cases and underscores landlords' need to offer legal notice before proceeding. While tenant advocates have raised flags, citing that it could make Texas eviction processes less friendly, supporters stand by the measure as necessary for ensuring property rights.
Lastly, another noteworthy development includes enhanced regulations for continuing-care facilities, casting a wider net over facilities now subject to state regulation. These adjustments offer more oversight concerning entrance fees, refunds, and tenant rights.
