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AUSTIN — Bastrop County state Rep. Stan Gerdes, R-Smithville, is advancing a slate of bills at the Texas Capitol this month, including proposals focused on historical monuments, government contracting and foreign influence in state politics.
After receiving pointed comments in April during a committee hearing for House Bill 54—his high-profile “FURRIES” Act targeting reported “nonhuman” Texas student behavior—Gerdes has turned attention back to a broader legislative agenda, now with presidential backing.
Gerdes announced May 7 that he has received an official endorsement from President Donald Trump in his re-election campaign. A former Trump administration official himself, he said his focus remains on securing borders, limiting government overreach and supporting local communities.
Earlier this month, Gerdes saw House Bill 119 pass the House vote. Now pending in committee, the bill would prohibit lobbyists representing foreign adversaries “like China or Russia” from registering in Texas or receiving compensation for their activities. Gerdes described the bill as a priority aimed at protecting state policy from outside influence.
House Bills 4552 and 3227, which Gerdes co-authored, have also advanced out of committee.
HB 4552, sent to the Calendars Committee May 9, would block governmental entities and contractors from engaging in what it defines as “discriminatory” diversity, equity and inclusion practices. It also provides for the withholding of state funds and authorizes legal relief for violations.
HB 3227, reported favorably May 8, would require a two-thirds vote of the Legislature before any historical monument on public property could be removed, altered or relocated. It also allows for civil penalties in certain cases. Government records show Gerdes has laid out more than 40 bills so far this session and has hosted several constituent groups at the Capitol.
The District 17 incumbent was re-elected Nov. 5 with about 66% of the vote against Democratic challenger Desiree Venable. With Texas House members serving two-year terms, his next re-election campaign is scheduled for the November 2026 general election.
Along with Bastrop County, District 17 includes Burleson, Caldwell, Lee and Milam counties.
