The furor continued over Gov. Rick Perry's remarks at a San Francisco event where he compared homosexuality to alcoholism. In an attempt to put the controversy behind him, Perry on Thursday admitted he "stepped right in it" and said he should have called instead on the need for "a really respectful and tolerant country."

The state's top leadership — Perry, Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst and Speaker Joe Straus — authorized the Department of Public Safety to spend an additional $1.3 million weekly on border security operations. DPS said it would not enforce immigration laws but would work with local and federal authorities to “deter and disrupt drug and human trafficking, and other border-related crimes.”

The Republican Party of Texas released its full party platform, close to two weeks after its adoption at the state convention in Fort Worth earlier this month. In addition to new, controversial language on gays and immigration, the platform also does things like call for the post of House speaker to become a statewide elected position.

Former U.S. House Majority Leader Tom DeLay returned to court Wednesday as prosecutors asked the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals to reinstate convictions against him for money laundering and conspiracy.

The Texas Water Development Board released draft rules this week that offer Texans a clearer sense of how the board will prioritize and fund competing water supply projects. The rules will help determine how $2 billion in upcoming water projects will be spent.

A Texas Railroad Commission policy of denying reporters access to agency staff was in the news after a report from The Associated Press on the practice. Among those subsequently expressing discomfort with the policy were House Energy Resources Chairman Jim Keffer, R-Eastland, and Democratic Railroad Commission candidate Steve Brown.