More than 20 new state laws went into effect as Texans rang in the New Year, with another half-dozen to go on the books on Jan. 18, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported.Those laws include a ban on transgender athletes competing on sports teams that reflect their gender identity, and penalties for illegally restraining dogs. Other new laws:■Require landlords to disclose to potential renters if a property has ever flooded or is in a flood plain.■Allow homeowners to take a homestead exemption in the same year they buy their home, instead of having to wait until the following year.■Require people accused ...