Regular Session
Government Affairs & Regulatory Compliance Analysis
SB1879 mandates the transfer of 15 acres from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) to Walker County, contingent upon the land’s development as a "justice center" by 2035. This legislation creates immediate procurement opportunities for construction and design firms but imposes a strict fee simple determinable title that reverts to the State if development deadlines or use-restrictions are violated.
Sen. Charles Schwertner·Senate Bill·Regular Session
This legislation has regulatory implications for the following Texas businesses and organizations:
Standard regulatory changes (effective 2025-09-01). Review during normal business planning.
Affected business types:
lowMinimal cost impact anticipated.
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JD Key Consulting provides strategic guidance on Texas regulatory compliance and legislative impact for your business.
Key implementation requirements and action items for compliance with this legislation
The legislation leaves two critical terms undefined, creating legal exposure for contractors and the County:
JD Key Consulting specializes in Texas regulatory compliance strategy. Work directly with James Dickey—former Chairman of the Republican Party of Texas—to understand this bill's impact on your operations and develop an actionable compliance plan.
Schedule a ConsultationInformation presented is for general knowledge only and is provided without warranty, express or implied. Consult qualified government affairs professionals and legal counsel before making compliance decisions.
This bill's path through the Texas Legislature
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Common questions about SB1879
SB1879 mandates the transfer of 15 acres from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) to Walker County, contingent upon the land’s development as a "justice center" by 2035. This legislation creates immediate procurement opportunities for construction and design firms but imposes a strict fee simple determinable title that reverts to the State if development deadlines or use-restrictions are violated.
SB1879 was authored by Texas Senator Charles Schwertner during the Regular Session.
SB1879 was signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott on May 13, 2025.
SB1879 is enforced by Texas Department of Criminal Justice.
The regulatory priority for SB1879 is rated as "low". Businesses and organizations should review the legislation to understand potential impacts.
The cost impact of SB1879 is estimated as "low". This may vary based on industry and implementation requirements.
SB1879 addresses topics including walker county, county government, county government--land use & zoning, property interests and property interests--real property.
Key dates for SB1879: Effective date is 2025-09-01. Consult with legal counsel regarding applicability.
SB1879 establishes the following penalties: Property Reversion (Administrative) penalty of Forfeiture of title to 14.999 acres for Walker County uses the property for any purpose other than a justice center OR fails to use the property for a justice center before the 10th anniversary of the transfer.. Consult with legal counsel for specific applicability to your situation.
SB1879 primarily affects property owners and real estate professionals. These businesses should review the legislation with their legal and compliance teams to understand potential impacts.
JD Key Consulting is an Austin, Texas-based government affairs firm led by James Dickey, former Chairman of the Republican Party of Texas. We specialize in Texas regulatory compliance and legislative strategy for data centers, energy, banking, and manufacturing.
