Texas lieutenant governor directs state senators to study prediction markets, data centers, and THC policy

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued a legislative priority memo to Texas state senators instructing them to study prediction markets, data centers, THC regulation, and surrogacy industry practices ahead of the 2027 legislative session. The memo expanded on an initial list that included investigating Medicaid fraud and examining what Patrick characterized as foreign interests in the surrogacy and fertility industries. The directive signals the topics likely to receive legislative attention and committee resources in the coming session, affecting potential regulation of emerging industries and existing state programs. Patrick's office sets the legislative agenda for the Republican-controlled Texas Senate, giving his priorities substantial weight in what bills receive floor votes.