About This Calendar
The Texas Legislature only meets for 140 days every two years. That compressed schedule means deadlines drive everything. From the first day bills can be filed to the last day the Governor can veto them, the calendar dictates which ideas move forward, and which ones quietly die. This page is designed to help you keep track of the moments that matter.
Dates of Interest
Stages of Legislative Session
While the key dates give you the “what” and “when,” the session itself moves through a predictable rhythm. Bills begin as ideas, get refined in committee hearings, face debate on the floor, and, if they survive, must still clear both chambers before heading to the Governor’s desk. The roadmap below shows this journey at a glance.
Following the calendar isn’t just for lobbyists or insiders. Knowing the right moment to act can make all the difference. Texans who engage early, especially in committee hearings, often have the greatest impact on legislation.
How Texans Can Get Involved
- Testify at committee hearings — Share your views on bills. House & Senate livestream hearings and post witness registration info.
- Contact your legislator — Timing matters; reach out before a bill leaves committee or hits the floor calendar.
- Track legislation — Use the Texas Legislature Online (TLO) to follow bills, authors, and committees.
- Vote on amendments — Joint resolutions go to the ballot. Texans make the final decision on constitutional changes.
The Legislature has its own culture, complete with jargon and traditions. If you’ve ever wondered what terms like sine die or chubbing mean, or why fewer than one in five bills actually pass, this section is for you.
Glossary & Did You Know?
Having reliable tools makes it easier to stay informed and engaged. We’ve included links to official resources as well as Texas Policy Research’s own analysis so you can track legislation and deadlines in real time.
Resources & Downloads
Stay connected with key tools and references during the 90th Legislative Session:
House Floor Reports
Track how we evaluate legislation on the Texas House floor using our five Liberty Principles.
View House ReportsSenate Floor Reports
Follow our bill-by-bill evaluations of Texas Senate legislation each session.
View Senate Reports
