Understanding the Texas Sunset Act: A Review of State Agencies

Published: September 1, 1995

The Texas Sunset Act, which was passed in 1977 by the Sixty-fifth Legislature, provided for a commission to review most state agencies every twelve years in order to determine if they should be continued or abolished.

Citation
Published

The following, adapted from the Chicago Manual of Style, 15th edition, is the preferred citation for this entry.

Vivian Elizabeth Smyrl, “Texas Sunset Act,” Handbook of Texas Online, accessed April 11, 2026, https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/texas-sunset-act.

TID: MLTNE

Original Publication Date:: September 1, 1995

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Commemorating 250 years of American independence through the stories, people, and places that shaped Texas and the nation.

As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026, Texans have a unique opportunity to reflect on the state’s role in the American story. Through exhibitions, programs, educational initiatives, and community events across Texas, Texas America250 encourages celebration, reflection, and commemoration at both local and statewide levels. At the Texas State Historical Association, we are proud to support this important moment through our mission-driven work in history education and public engagement, including Texas History Day, and we invite students, educators, and communities to explore this milestone in meaningful ways.

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On July 4, 2026, we will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence and the birth of the greatest nation in the history of the world. “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” Long may these ideals live in the heart of every Texan and every American. May God bless all who have defended our freedoms that we enjoy each day. And God bless the United States of America.

Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas

Understanding the Texas Sunset Act: A Review of State Agencies

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