Legislative reference
Legislative reference publications are updated in the interim before a new legislative session begins. Most online publications
are in PDF format. If there is also a website or HTML version of the publication, the word "website" in brackets to the right
of the publication title links to that version. Unless noted, printed copies may be obtained from the council's document
distribution section and are available for viewing in the Legislative Reference Library.
Committees may obtain printed copies and other information from the council's accounting office,
(512) 463-1155.
Guide to Texas Legislative Information [website]
An aid to locating legislative information and resources. (for the 82nd Legislature)Guide to Texas Legislative Council Services
A detailed guide to services provided to the legislature by the agency. (for the 82nd Legislature)Texas Legislative Council Drafting Manual
A compilation of legislative drafting guidelines covering such topics as bill format and content requirements, germaneness, citations, and style and usage. (for the 82nd Legislature)Reading Statutes and Bills
A primer on how to read and understand statutes and bills. (for the 82nd Legislature)Memorandum on Local and Bracket Bills
A discussion of requirements relating to publication of notice of intent to introduce a local or special bill and standards governing consideration of bills that are limited to a particular class of political subdivisions or geographic areas through use of population or another classification device. (for the 82nd Legislature)Texas Legislative Manual
A manual containing the U.S. and Texas Constitutions; the senate and house rules of procedure; information on the membership of the two houses and their committees; and information on the officers and employees of the two houses. (for the 82nd Legislature, but Texas Constitution includes amendments through the November 8, 2011, election)Texas Constitution [website]
An update prepared following each election on proposed constitutional amendments to incorporate all changes adopted by the voters. (as amended through the November 3, 2009, election)Senate Rules [website]
A paperback volume of the annotated rules. (for the 82nd Legislature)House Rules
A paperback volume of the annotated rules. (for the 82nd Legislature)Procedures Manual for Joint Committees
Procedures governing the financial, administrative, and logistical operations of joint committees. (for the 82nd Legislature)Committees may obtain printed copies and other information from the council's accounting office,
(512) 463-1155.