The tests would be administered at the beginning, middle and end of the school year. But the proposal’s fate is unclear with the House in limbo over a redistricting fight.

The Texas Senate's packed floor session Tuesday wasn't without its own political drama. Early on, nine of the chamber's Democrats walked out to protest the same Republican-backed plan to redraw the state's congressional districts that prompted the House quorum break earlier this month.

Democrats who are eyeing Texas’ Senate seat next year have upped their ad spending and media appearances while embracing clashes with Republican leaders.