A letter signed by Senate Education Committee chairwoman Florence Shapiro clarifies that Texas Education Commissioner Robert Scott can delay requirements on counting the tests toward final grades if he chooses to.
The new test is known as the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness, or STAAR.
Monday's letter says delaying the rule until next school year will allow officials more time to implement it.
The requirement was designed to ensure students take the test seriously but has caused anxiety among parents and school administrators.
The letter was also signed by two of Shapiro's fellow Republicans and a Democrat.
Scott's office confirms he has received the letter, but hasn't commented.
