The bill amends various sections of the Government Code to clarify the organization and authority of the Texas State Guard and the Texas National Guard. It defines the "director" as the military commander of the Texas State Guard, with the governor responsible for appointing this position. The adjutant general's authority is specified to pertain solely to the Texas National Guard. The bill also allows the governor to delegate powers to both the adjutant general and the director, ensuring that each has distinct responsibilities for their respective forces. Additionally, it outlines qualifications for these positions and emphasizes the need for coordination between the two entities during emergency operations.

Further amendments include provisions for the administration of unit funds, the establishment of a code of conduct for the Texas State Guard, and eligibility criteria for individuals seeking to serve. The bill mandates the development of recruitment and retention strategies, as well as the organization of specialized units within the Texas State Guard. It also introduces regulations for awarding medals to service members and outlines the transfer of employees and functions from the Texas Military Department to the Texas State Guard by September 1, 2026. The governor is required to appoint a director for the Texas State Guard by February 1, 2026, and the bill will take effect 91 days after the end of the legislative session.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 437.001, Government Code 437.002, Government Code 437.003, Government Code 437.004, Government Code 437.005, Government Code 437.006, Government Code 437.053, Government Code 437.058, Government Code 437.059, Government Code 437.107, Government Code 437.110, Government Code 437.111, Government Code 437.114, Government Code 437.119, Government Code 437.152, Government Code 437.155, Government Code 437.160, Government Code 437.163, Government Code 437.201, Government Code 437.206, Government Code 437.211, Government Code 437.212, Government Code 437.219, Government Code 437.221, Government Code 437.225, Government Code 437.228, Government Code 437.229, Government Code 437.231, Government Code 437.355, Government Code 437.357 (Government Code 437)