Past Contributions

• TABC Looking to Speed Up Alcohol Permitting

  By John Wayne Ferguson July 18, 2012

  The director of the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission told lawmakers on Wednesday that the agency is working on plans to make obtaining a beer or liquor license simpler and faster. Full Story 

• Report: Texas Jobs Near Public Transit, But Commuters Aren't

  By John Wayne Ferguson July 13, 2012

  A new report shows a growing disconnect between the number of jobs located near public transportation and the number of workers who can easily use it. And Texas metro areas are below the national averages for connectivity. Full Story 

• Horse Slaughtering to Be Focus of Senate Hearing

  By John Wayne Ferguson July 10, 2012

  Texas was home to two of the last three horse slaughterhouses in the U.S. On Tuesday, state senators will hear testimony on the economic impact of the closure of Texas’ slaughterhouses. Full Story 

• Freedom of Expression: The Funniest Primary Campaign Ads

  By John Wayne Ferguson and Hollie O'Connor July 4, 2012

  As you celebrate Independence Day, take a break from the barbecue to pay tribute to the freedom of speech, and those aspiring Texas politicos who used it to produce incredibly entertaining primary campaign ads. Full Story 

• Regulators Approve Hike in Wholesale Electric Prices

  By Kate Galbraith and John Wayne Ferguson June 28, 2012

  The Public Utility Commission approved a 50 percent increase for the cap on wholesale electricity prices on the Texas electrical grid. That will mean higher prices for ordinary Texans, consumer advocates fear. Full Story 

• Decision on Juvenile Sentences Leaves Unanswered Questions

  By John Wayne Ferguson June 26, 2012

  State officials are unsure how Monday's U.S. Supreme Court decision on mandatory life sentences for juveniles will affect the 27 people in Texas who were incarcerated for life without the possibility of parole before the age of 18. Full Story 

• Texplainer: What Happens When a Nominee Quits Before an Election?

  By John Wayne Ferguson June 26, 2012

  To remove their names from the primary ballot, candidates must file a request at least 63 days in advance of the election. But if a party's nominee withdraws ahead of the general election, the party probably can't replace the candidate. Full Story 

• State's Readiness for Hurricane Season Touted

  By John Wayne Ferguson June 19, 2012

  The 2012 hurricane season is here. TxDOT officials point to recent drills and expanded social media efforts as evidence that they are better prepared to help Texans with potential mass evacuations. Full Story 

• In Tarrant County, Little Separates House Hopefuls

  By John Wayne Ferguson June 14, 2012

  Two state House races in Tarrant County will be decided in the July 31 runoff elections. The runoffs will feature two Republicans facing off in House District 91 and a pair of Democrats in House District 95. Full Story