The administrative law judges who oversee disputes involving state agencies typically don’t attract much attention, but the forced departure of a judge has critics questioning whether the agency’s independence is at risk — and calling on the governor to replace her.
Cat Cardenas
Posted inState Government
Texas General Land Office releases plan for $5 billion in disaster relief
The city of Houston is set to receive a little over $1 billion in federal block grants for Harvey recovery, according to the Texas General Land Office’s newly released disaster relief action plan.
Posted in
In Harvey's Wake
Houston council approves changes to floodplain regulations in effort to reduce flood damage
“To do nothing is not an option,” said Mayor Sylvester Turner, who pushed the new rules requiring new homes within the city’s 500-year floodplain to be built 2 feet above the floodplain.
Posted in
In Harvey's Wake
Six figures for six feet: Some Harvey victims in Houston spend huge sums to elevate their homes
Across Houston, thousands of people are receiving letters saying their homes are so damaged that they must elevate them to meet current floodplain regulations. But the cost is out of reach for many families.
Posted in
In Harvey's Wake
Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner takes jabs at land office, which says he’s got his facts wrong on Harvey response
The Houston mayor accused Land Commissioner George P. Bush’s agency of “hogging” federal Harvey relief money and associated administrative fees. The land office called Turner’s complaints “disingenuous.”
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State Government
Federal shutdown would hurt Harvey victims, land commissioner tells lawmakers
Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner and Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush told a House committee that badly-needed relief money would be delayed even more if the federal government shuts down.