A veteran lawmaker has filed legislation that would penalize businesses that misclassify workers as independent contractors. Leaders of construction firms have said their industry is rife with companies that purposely misclassify employees.
2013
Posted in
Politics
Business Group Offers Tax Cut Plan
After Texas lawmakers were told they’d be working with a budget surplus this session, some immediately began calling for tax cuts. Now, one prominent business lobbying group has unveiled a plan for what those cuts could look like.
Posted in
Bidness As Usual
For Ethics Commission, Big Hurdles to Reform
The Texas Ethics Commission stands poised for change during the 83rd legislative session. But any efforts to reform it will face a challenge, because the lawmakers the commission was set up to regulate are the ones setting the rules.
Posted in
Politics
The Brief: Jan. 17, 2013
Sweeping new gun-control efforts this week have provoked a fierce reaction — and even an ad campaign — in Texas.
Posted inState Government
The Evening Brief: Jan. 16, 2013
Your evening reading: Abbott launches gun rights ad campaign aimed at New Yorkers; Obama’s gun plan draws fierce reaction in Texas; Senate proposals to curb Medicaid costs unveiled
Posted in
State Government
Seven State Parks Could Close Under Proposed Budget
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department would close seven state parks based on current budget proposals in the House and Senate.
Posted in
Economy
Budget Plans Target Incentives and Testing
The budget proposals released by lawmakers this week show an interest in revamping school testing and the state’s economic incentive programs.
Posted in
Politics
President’s Gun Plan Panned, Embraced by Texas Lawmakers
Sen. Rodney Ellis, D-Houston, praised President Obama’s proposals to curb gun violence, while Gov. Rick Perry shunned efforts to increase regulation and called for prayer.
Posted in
Energy
Report Recommends Changes to Tax Exemption for Fracking
A Legislative Budget Board report on how government can be more effective has recommended that the state reduce its gas tax exemption for hydraulic fracturing.
Posted in
Health care
Dewhurst, Nelson Tout Proposals to Curb Medicaid Costs
Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst and Sen. Jane Nelson on Wednesday discussed new Senate proposals that target Medicaid spending. The plans would institute quality-based payment reforms for long-term care services and measures to catch fraud and abuse.
