Most of what the state government does is spelled out in the budget Texas lawmakers write every two years. Lucky for them, most voters don’t pay close attention to what’s in that big stack of numbers.
2019
Posted in
Politics
After years of Trump’s dire warnings, a “crisis” has hit the border but generates little urgency
A political stalemate over the president’s border wall plan makes small-bore immigration fixes more remote.
Posted inState Government
Following inconclusive harassment inquiry, state Sen. Charles Schwertner asks to give up his committee chairmanship
Schwertner was investigated by the University of Texas at Austin after a student reported that he sent her unwanted lewd texts. He denied the allegation and an investigator determined evidence “does not support a finding” that he violated Title IX.
Posted in
Immigration
Trump says he could declare national emergency to build border wall
Asked Friday if he would declare a national emergency to get the wall built, Trump responded: “We can do it. I haven’t done it. I may do it. I may do it.”
Posted in
Politics
Justin Rodriguez leaving Texas House after being appointed Bexar County commissioner
The San Antonio Democrat was selected to replace Bexar County Commissioner Paul Elizondo, who died last week.
Posted in
Criminal Justice
Texas Rep. Ron Reynolds released from jail — just in time for the legislative session
The Missouri City Democrat has won re-election several times since his 2015 conviction on misdemeanor charges for illegally soliciting clients.
Posted in
Texas Legislature 2019
“I don’t do this for fun.” Patients are hopeful Texas will expand access to medical cannabis
The Texas Legislature is about to kick off its first session since three licensed marijuana dispensaries opened in the state, providing cannabis products for hundreds of patients. Now advocates are hopeful that lawmakers are ready to dramatically expand that program to thousands more Texans who stand to benefit.
Posted in
Texas Legislature 2019
Analysis: Without new state money, is it still school finance reform?
Lawmakers are taking on school finance and property tax reform — gnarly policy issues that are expensive to tackle even if the state decides enough money is already being spent on public education in Texas.
Posted in
Congress
House Democrats take power amid Texas delegation shakeup
U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi took back the chamber gavel amid a gloomy partial government shutdown.
Posted in
Politics
8 file in special election to replace Carol Alvarado; 3 sign up for Joe Pickett’s seat
There will be special elections on Jan. 29 in two Texas House districts to fill vacant seats, and the filing deadline was 5 p.m. Thursday.