How new regulations impact abortion and birth control access in Texas
Despite clarifying legislation, abortion remains banned in Texas, except to save the life of the pregnant patient. Full Story
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María Méndez works on efforts to better connect with Texans and writes explainers and guides. She strives to answer Texans' questions about politics and public policy and to help them find resources. Previously, she reported on public education at the Austin American-Statesman, border and business issues at Texas Public Radio and politics and breaking news at The Dallas Morning News. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin, interned at The Texas Tribune as an engagement fellow and worked for The Daily Texan, UT’s student newspaper. She was born in Mexico, grew up in Austin and speaks Spanish. She is based in Austin.
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![An exam room at Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas in Austin, Texas on August 8, 2023.]()
Credit: Montinique Monroe for The Texas Tribune -
Taxes, state parks, infrastructure: What you need to know about the Nov. 7 constitutional amendments election
Texans will decide the fate of 14 constitutional amendments approved for the ballot by state lawmakers. Here’s a breakdown of each constitutional amendment and requirements to vote. Full Story
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![Voters wait to cast their ballots at the Dittmar Recreation Center in South Austin on March 1, 2022.]()
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Q&A: How can Texans deal with extreme heat?
We know you’re tired of the heat at this point. Here’s how much longer you can expect it to last and reminders on how to stay safe and cool. Full Story
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![Geoff Bell, a HVAC technician with Texas Pride Air Conditioning and Heating, tests the refrigerant levels in an air conditioning unit during a heat wave Thursday, Aug. 24, 2023 in Houston.]()
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How the Texas AG’s office became a pipeline for conservative federal judges
In just a few decades, the Texas attorney general’s office became a powerhouse in national legal fights over abortion, health care and immigration. Here’s a timeline of how it happened. Full Story
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As Texas’ heat wave continues, tell us how you’re coping
Texans are seeing record-breaking temperatures this summer. Tell us how the excessive heat is affecting your daily life or plans for the future and what questions we can answer about dealing with it. Full Story
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![A construction worker carries a piece of metal while working through a heatwave in Houston on Friday, July 14, 2023.]()
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New school safety laws seek to add armed guards, chaplains and mental health training. Here’s what you need to know.
Experts say many of the changes will bolster school safety but some requirements may be challenging for public schools to implement by the upcoming school year with limited funding and staffing constraints. Full Story
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![Austin Police Department officer Cory Ehrler monitors the entrance to Ridgetop Elementary School in Austin, Texas shortly after classes start on the Monday following the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. As the 83rd Legislature approaches, Texas lawmakers are considering making firearms more available to teachers and other school personnel. The Texas Tribune (Smith: School Security). Credit: Tamir Kalifa for The Texas Tribune.]()
Credit: Tamir Kalifa/The Texas Tribune -
Help us report on how the return of student loan repayments will affect Texans
Student loan repayments are set to resume in October. If you’re a Texas student loan borrower, tell us how this will affect you. Full Story
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![Students walk down Speedway Mall at the University of Texas at Austin on Aug. 25, 2021.]()
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Texas colleges offer job training for students with disabilities. Here’s how to use those programs.
Students with disabilities can succeed in college with the right kind of help. There are programs that can support them. The programs help them live on their own, find jobs, and make a difference where they live. Full Story
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![Students walk to class on the Texas A&M University campus in College Station on Nov. 15, 2022.]()
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Texas colleges provide job training for students with disabilities. Here’s how to access it.
Students with disabilities can find success in college, live independently and get jobs with the right kind of help. Here are college programs that provide support. Full Story
![Students walk to class on the Texas A&M University campus in College Station on Nov. 15, 2022.]()
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As demand for skilled workers rises in Texas, work-based educational programs see a resurgence
Many Texas residents can opt for a variety of different educational programs that are shorter, more appropriate to their needs and often cost less than a bachelor’s degree. Full Story
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![Jule Preiser, a fourth-semester Robotics student at the Texas State Technical College in Waco, works on a troubleshooting assignment during class on Oct. 24, 2022. Students were given no specific instruction - much like how you might be given a problem if out in the field - and tasked with finding a solution through their own problem solving skills.]()
Credit: Evan L'Roy/The Texas Tribune