While the measure passed the Texas Senate almost unanimously, Democrats in the House denied the bill the 100 votes it needed.
Lawmakers are required to follow a web of rules and procedures before a bill can reach the governor’s desk and become law.
The Texas Constitution requires judges and justices to retire by the end of a term in which they turn 75 years of age.
The bills would preclude state enforcement of federal actions Texas deemed to be infringements of the U.S. Constitution.
Senators drew lots to determine which members would run for re-election in two years.
Cornyn also faced backlash among staunch conservatives for his bipartisan appropriations bill that included limited gun control measures.
Commercial casinos are banned in Texas, but a political action committee funded by a Las Vegas corporation hopes to change that.
In December, the GOP judges on the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals invalidated a state law empowering the attorney general to prosecute election fraud.
The commissioners court unanimously approved a document urging Governor Greg Abbott to order deportations by the state government.
Casinos are constitutionally banned in Texas and opponents say legalizing them would have adverse social effects.
The Democratic candidate for governor suggested legalizing gambling could provide an opening for property tax relief.
Republican incumbents on Texas’ two highest courts easily secured the GOP nomination on primary day.
