A bill requiring universities to offer fixed four-year tuition plans, as called for by Gov. Rick Perry, has passed both chambers but with language attached that might give the governor pause.

The Texas House gave early approval on Tuesday to a requirement that the Department of Public Safety perform DNA testing on all biological evidence prior to the start of cases that involve the death penalty.

Your evening reading: major deadline looms for budget deal; Dewhurst urges action on abortion legislation; Houston Tea Party group sues IRS over targeting

The Senate approved an extension of the University of Texas at Austin's cap on automatic admissions under the state's top 10 percent rule on Tuesday, and members rejected efforts to do away with the rule entirely.

UPDATED: Premont Independent School District will avoid closure by joining with Texas A&M University-Kingsville, state and local officials announced on Tuesday.

The Senate Nominations Committee unanimously voted Tuesday to approve Gov. Rick Perry's three nominees to the University of Texas System Board of Regents. The nominees must still be confirmed by the full Senate.

Police would have new authority to take firearms away from Texans who are in a mental crisis under a bill the House approved on Tuesday that is now headed to Gov. Rick Perry's desk.