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What you need to know now about the one bill Texas lawmakers must pass (video)

In less than two minutes, learn the ins and outs of the only bill that Texas lawmakers have to pass — the one that will determine how the state government is funded for the next two years.

The disparities between the House and Senate versions of the state's budget bill center on much more than what to spend money on. Members from each chamber are busy reconciling the differences.

In the video above, Tribune Executive Editor Ross Ramsey breaks down the ins and outs of the only bill lawmakers have to pass during the legislative session — the bill that decides how the state government will be funded for the next two years.

Read related Tribune coverage:

  • Both chambers have passed state budgets that spend around $218 billion but significant differences remain. With just a few weeks to go before the end of the session, here's a look at the key sticking points.
  • The Texas Constitution requires the Legislature to balance its budget every year without borrowing against future receipts. That bars the government from deficit spending and forces lawmakers to constantly balance demands for programs and services against voters' desire to limit taxes, fees and other costs of government.

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Health care Public education State government Budget Texas Legislature