Overview

• The Texas House and Senate have introduced budget drafts for 2026–2027, with spending proposals of $335.7 billion and $332.9 billion respectively.
• Both chambers propose $1 billion for a school voucher program, doubling the amount considered in the last session, signaling stronger legislative support.
• Teacher pay raises are included, with the Senate proposing $4,000 statewide increases and $10,000 for rural teachers.
• The drafts allocate $6.5 billion to maintain current border security operations, a reduction from the previous budget cycle's $8 billion.
• Water infrastructure and supply projects are prioritized, with $2.5 billion proposed to address the state's growing water scarcity challenges.