Administrative Rules
Administrative Code
The legislature authorizes agencies and commissions to create rules to help administer and carry out the law. The rules are compiled and organized by subject matter by the secretary of state as the Texas Administrative Code. It is updated annually.
The online version of the code allows you to search for a rule as it existed on a particular date going back to January 1, 1999.
The library has print copies of the Texas Administrative Code dating back to 1979. These are available for public viewing during our normal business hours. If you are unable to visit the library in person, Ask a Librarian by phone or e-mail for assistance.
Texas Register
Changes to the Administrative Code are published in the Texas Register, which serves as the journal of state agency rulemaking in Texas. The library has a complete print collection of the Texas Register since it was first published.
The information published in the Texas Register includes proposed, adopted, withdrawn and emergency rule actions; notices of state agency review of agency rules; governor's appointments; attorney general opinions; and miscellaneous documents such as requests for proposals.
Previous issues of the Texas Register are on the secretary of state's website. All previous issues are online at the Portal to Texas History from the University of North Texas.