AUSTIN – Texas Poised to Launch Department of Government Efficiency
A major step toward streamlining state operations is nearing completion, as Texas moves closer to establishing its own Department of Government Efficiency.
Senate Bill 14: A Regulatory Overhaul
Both chambers of the Texas Legislature have passed Senate Bill 14, which proposes the creation of the Texas Regulatory Office—a new agency designed to reduce bureaucratic red tape and simplify state regulations.
The bill, authored by Senator Phil King (R–Weatherford) and championed by Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, aims to eliminate outdated or unnecessary rules, making state operations more transparent and cost-effective for both taxpayers and businesses.
“This initiative was inspired by President Trump’s creation of a federal Department of Government Efficiency,” Lt. Gov. Patrick said. “I made SB 14 a priority because it offers Texas the opportunity to cut burdensome regulations and deliver real savings to our citizens.”
Collaboration and Accessibility
A key feature of the legislation is the formation of an advisory panel tasked with working alongside the governor to identify and implement regulatory improvements. This panel would include representatives from the business community, academic researchers, state agencies, and members of the public.
The bill also calls for the launch of a user-friendly online portal that would allow Texans to easily access and search through the state’s regulatory framework.
SB 14 cleared the Texas House with a 97–51 vote and passed the Senate 26–5.
Next Steps
The legislation was sent to Governor Greg Abbott’s desk on April 14, 2025. While the governor has not publicly indicated whether he will sign the bill, approval would put the new law into effect on September 1, 2025.
Oversight Already Underway
In anticipation of the bill’s potential enactment, the Texas House has already established the House Committee on the Delivery of Government Efficiency. This committee is tasked with identifying fraud, waste, and abuse in state programs, and recommending strategies for modernization and cost-saving improvements.
The committee, which monitors the Department of Information Resources, the Texas Space Commission, and the Sunset Advisory Commission, held its first meeting on March 5. The session focused on the state’s IT infrastructure, the recently formed Space Commission, and the broader regulatory review process.
As Texas positions itself to lead in regulatory modernization, SB 14 marks a significant step toward a more efficient, transparent, and taxpayer-friendly government.