HB 1659 proposes changes to the payment system for state employees in Texas. The bill mandates that state employee salaries be paid twice a month, as opposed to the current monthly payment schedule for certain classifications. It standardizes bi-monthly payments across state agencies and removes prior statutory exceptions that allowed only specific agencies or classifications to receive twice-monthly payments. Additionally, the bill reinforces the use of electronic funds transfers for all salary payments unless exceptions under the law apply. It also updates reporting requirements for retirement systems and payroll certifications to align with the twice-monthly payment schedule.