Every two years, lawmakers from across Texas gather at the State Capitol in Austin for 140 days to debate policy, pass laws, and determine how billions of state dollars will be spent. Decisions made during this short window shape everything from public education and healthcare to workforce development and public safety. Outside of session, committees continue studying issues through hearings, stakeholder meetings, and interim charges issued by legislative leadership.

The Texas Legislature is the lawmaking branch of Texas government and is made up of two chambers:

• Texas House of Representatives – 150 members
• Texas Senate – 31 members

This structure is known as a bicameral legislature, meaning legislation must pass both chambers before heading to the Governor for final approval.

Why Timing Matters

In Texas, strategy is closely tied to timing. A bill can gain momentum early, or miss a deadline and effectively die for the session. Budget decisions are often made months before final votes occur, which is why advocacy and stakeholder engagement often begin long before session starts.

Passing legislation in Texas is not simply about having a good idea—it is about understanding who controls the process, where decisions are made, and how political dynamics shape outcomes.

The Speaker of the House leads the Texas House and has significant influence over committee assignments, committee chairs, and the flow of legislation in the House.

The Lieutenant Governor presides over the Texas Senate and is widely considered one of the most powerful elected officials in Texas. The Lieutenant Governor determines committee assignments, names committee chairs, and helps shape the Senate agenda. Currently, Rep. Dustin Burrows leads the House, and Lt. Governor Dan Patrick presides over the Senate.

Dustin Burrows Speaker of the Texas House

Lt. Governor Dan Patrick Texas Senate

Committees Matter

Most legislation never reaches the House or Senate floor. Instead, bills are first referred to committees that specialize in areas such as education, healthcare, finance, and licensing. Committee chairs decide whether bills receive hearings and advance through the process.

Timing Equals Strategy

By the time the Legislature gavels into session, many policy conversations are already underway. Stakeholders who engage early on are often better positioned to shape legislation, funding requests, and committee priorities before the fast-paced legislative session begins.

For organizations and advocates, the interim is one of the most important periods to build relationships, present data, and influence policy discussions before bills are formally filed.