TX SB1488

Prohibits Texas public institutions of higher education from conducting or funding "gain of function research" on potentially pandemic pathogens, defined as research that may enhance transmissibility or virulence of dangerous pathogens

Institutions of higher education that violate the prohibition become ineligible to receive state funds

Requires all entities (public and private) intending to conduct research on potentially pandemic pathogens to submit a written report to the Department of State Health Services at least 90 days before beginning research, detailing location, scope, funding source, pathogen identity, potential public health impacts, and containment measures

Authorizes the department to request the governor to prohibit research by public institutions or seek injunctions against private entities if research poses "substantial and unjustifiable risk" to public health, safety, or state security

Imposes civil penalties of $50,000 to $100,000 per day for failure to submit required reports, with the attorney general authorized to investigate and sue; waives sovereign immunity for institutions of higher education for these violations

Applies to research beginning on or after December 1, 2025