State Sen. John Whitmire has filed a bill to make it easier for those convicted based on science that has since been discredited to appeal their sentences. Prosecutors have called such legislation unnecessary.
Maurice Chammah
Posted in
Economy
In Radio Ads, Perry Reaches Out to California Businesses
On radio stations throughout much of California, Gov. Rick Perry is promoting the business climate in Texas and encouraging Californians to move.
Posted inState Government
Despite Ruling, Group Vows to Keep Fighting “Puppy Mill” Law
A federal court in Austin has ruled to preserve a new law regulating cat and dog breeders. While animal rights groups are celebrating their victory, the animal owners’ association that challenged the law is pledging to renew its fight.
Posted in
Demographics
Joaquin Castro: Current Immigration Laws Create “Ugly Realities”
At a meeting of state business leaders Thursday, U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro said that current immigration laws create “ugly realities” and that Gov. Rick Perry “will never say the border is secure.”
Posted in
Criminal Justice
Hygiene Products Running Low in Prisons as State Contracts Lapse
Texas prisons are running low on hygiene products that are not considered necessities for inmates, including toothpaste and deodorant. Family members and inmates are frustrated as state officials try to find a contractor.
Posted in
Criminal Justice
Lawmakers Renew Push to Ban Texting While Driving
At a briefing Tuesday, lawmakers and relatives of people killed while texting and driving renewed a push to make the practice illegal. A proposal passed during the last session but was vetoed by Gov. Rick Perry.
Posted in
State Government
Storify: Perry’s State of the State Address
This Storify presentation reveals the instant reactions on social media by legislators, staffers, guests and journalists to Gov. Rick Perry’s State of the State address.
Posted in
Guides
Texplainer: What is the Blocker Bill?
The blocker bill, a tradition of the Texas Senate, gives the minority party power, because it requires that two-thirds of the Senate must agree before a bill is heard on the floor.
Posted in
Criminal Justice
Arson Reviewers Expect Small Number of Problem Cases
The Innocence Project of Texas told the state Forensic Science Commission on Friday that its investigation of old arson convictions for possible wrongful convictions has raised serious concerns in only a handful of cases.
Posted in
Criminal Justice
Bill Would Count Prisoners Differently in Redistricting
Resuscitating the 2011 redistricting battle, two lawmakers have filed bills requiring the state to count prisoners at their last home address rather than where they are incarcerated. They say it cheats urban districts out of representatives.
