Legislative Advocacy – 89th Texas Legislative Session

The American Legion's Voice in Austin

The American Legion is the largest veterans organization in Texas, representing over 80,000 members and serving as the voice for more than 1.2 million veterans and servicemembers.

Our legislative efforts are guided by our four pillars: Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and Children & Youth.

Here are the key legislative priorities we’re tracking in the 89th Texas Legislative Session:

Property Tax Relief for Veterans

We support efforts to ease the property tax burden for disabled veterans and their families.

HB 1932 – Full exemption for disabled veterans and surviving spouses
HB 2032 – Partial exemption based on veteran’s disability rating
HB 2508 – Exemption for spouses of veterans who passed due to service-related conditions

Opposing Changes to Hazelwood Education Act

We are actively opposing any changes that would weaken the Hazelwood Act or Legacy benefits.

HB 1867 – Would extend tuition benefits to siblings
HB 2839 – Proposed modifications to tuition/fee exemptions

Veteran Support & Services – Bills We Support

These bills strengthen healthcare access, licensing, mental health care, and more for veterans:

HB 381 – PTSD treatment pilot program
HB 720 – Ketamine treatment grant for veterans and first responders
HB 879 – Health care licenses for veterans
HB 906 – Teaching certificates for veterans and first responders
HB 1078 – Veterans benefits posters in Texas workplaces
HB 1557 – Toll fee waiver program for veterans
HB 1875 – Study on veterans’ cemeteries
HB 2456 – Flag display requirements in schools
HB 3152 – Display of pledges in classrooms
HB 2754 – Substance abuse treatment for homeless veterans
HB 1819 – Mental health grant for veterans and families
HB 2193 – Study on access to veterans' benefits in Texas
HB 1136 – DMV study on parking for individuals with disabilities

Bills We Oppose

Some proposed bills could reduce access to key veteran services or programs.

HB 153 – Limits eligibility for veterans treatment court
HB 2537 – Changes the claims assistance process (opposed)

Get Involved

Your voice matters! Contact your local representatives and let them know you support legislation that strengthens benefits for Texas veterans.

👉 Find your representative here