HB 2 Signed into Law — A Brighter Future for Texas Students

Last week, I had the privilege to join Governor Abbott and legislative leaders as House Bill 2 — the largest single investment in Texas public education history — was signed into law at Salado Middle School, just south of House District 13.

What made it even more special for me was seeing students and families from back home — from Rosebud-Lott ISD — who traveled to be there for this historic moment. I had the chance to visit with them, shake their hands, and talk about what this bill means for their classrooms and their future. That personal connection reminded me once again why we fight so hard for public education in Texas — because at the end of the day, it’s all about the kids.

You’ve heard me say that before, but this week it became more than words — it became the law.

HB 2 delivers major funding with an $8.5 billion increase for schools, the largest in Texas history. That includes $4.2 billion in permanent pay raises and incentives for our teachers and support staff, $1.3 billion to help districts cover rising costs like utilities, insurance, and pensions, and major new support for special education, school safety, pre-K, early learning, and more. This is a real investment for Texas classrooms and the future of our kids.

Here in Leon County, this new funding will make a big difference for our local schools — and for the thousands of students in classrooms across our communities. According to the latest estimates from the Legislative Budget Board, over the next two years (2026–2027 biennium), Buffalo ISD will receive about $3,090 more per student. Centerville ISD will see an increase of $3,635 per student. Leon ISD will receive about $3,011 per student. Normangee ISD will get about $3,156 per student. Oakwood ISD will see about $4,118 per student.

Altogether, this means millions of new dollars flowing directly into House District 13classrooms — helping schools hire more teachers, improve safety, update materials, and provide greater opportunities for every child. When I visited with families last week at the HB 2 signing, I was reminded once again how much this matters to rural Texas. We are delivering real results that our students, teachers, and communities will feel.

At the same time, we must ensure that as we invest more in our public schools, we are also protecting the values that make our communities strong. SB 11, which I helped pass and is now on Governor Abbott’s desk, protects religious liberties by allowing students and staff the opportunity for a voluntary period of prayer and reading of religious texts — all while respecting everyone’s rights and choices. Alongside that, HB 100 ensures that only appropriate instructional materials make it into our classrooms, keeping Texas kids safe from harmful content.

The 89th legislative session has come to a close, and I’m proud of the work we accomplished for our public schools and communities. But my commitment to you doesn’t end here — I’ll continue to serve and listen to your concerns as we prepare for the work of the 90th legislative session. Together, we’ll keep pushing to make Texas #1 in education and opportunity for every child.

Thank you for trusting me to represent you.

Thank you for reading my weekly column! Make sure you stay connected and informed about the legislative process by calling our Capitol office at (512) 463-0600 or by following my social media page at www.facebook.com/AngeliaOrrForTX.

– Conservative State Representative Angelia Orr