The latest Texas Legislature news from The Texas Tribune.
The state's 38 private colleges can opt out of a new state law that will allow concealed handgun license owners to carry guns in buildings on college campuses. No private college has announced plans to allow guns on its grounds. Here is a look at where things stand with each campus. Full Story
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Three days after Gov. Greg Abbott called for a convention of states to dramatically amend the U.S. Constitution, few high-ranking Republicans in Texas have backed his proposal. Full Story
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Texas professors are still fighting to keep their classrooms gun free. But the state's top universities appear to be reaching a consensus that banning guns in classes will soon be illegal. Full Story
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In a fresh — but long shot — assertion of states’ rights, Gov. Greg Abbott is calling for a convention of U.S. states to pass nine new amendments to the U.S. Constitution. Full Story
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A group of racehorse owners sued the state Friday to block legislative efforts to shut down the Texas Racing Commission — and with it, the state’s racetracks. Full Story
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Until this year, Texas had not kept track of how many children in the state's foster care system were pregnant or parenting — though experts estimate the rate is well above the general population's. Full Story
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Will bragging rights in the Republican primaries for Texas House seats go to the management now in place or to those opposed to the current leaders? Watching these races involving incumbents will provide some answers. Full Story
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On the campaign trail, Greg Abbott suggested government should get "out of the business of picking winners and losers.” But his office strongly supports the taxpayer-funded incentives Texas uses to lure in businesses. Full Story
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All of us have to watch our mouths — particularly politicians. State Rep. Jonathan Stickland is under political fire for past online comments. He's apologized, but time is the enemy here for the Bedford Republican, who's facing a primary challenge. Full Story
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Texas' elected leaders lashed out Tuesday at President Obama's executive orders prompting more background checks during gun purchases. But those officials offered no specifics on how they planned to fight Obama's actions. Full Story
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Intervening in what could be a landmark decision, the Obama administration, state and federal lawmakers and medical experts are among those who filed amicus briefs urging the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn Texas’ 2013 abortion law. Full Story
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It remains a daunting political reality in Texas. While women make up more than half the state, they are underrepresented in the halls of power, and it appears the 2016 elections will do little to change that. Full Story
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Some of the most important debates in government and politics are complicated — and boring. That gives the combatants some safety from voters who are preoccupied with battles that are easier to understand. Full Story
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The new year is already shaping up to be one of the most active in Texas politics — and not just because the presidential race will center on the state come March 1, the day of the primary. Full Story
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During the first half of 2015, the Texas Legislature and new statewide leaders dominated the headlines in Texas news. But there was plenty attention on Rick Perry, Ted Cruz and other major story lines in the later months. Full Story
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The longest-serving governor in Texas history is endorsing Bedford pastor Scott Fisher in his GOP primary campaign against state Rep. Jonathan Stickland, Fisher's campaign announced Tuesday. Full Story
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On Christmas, we couldn't think of a better gift for you, our generous readers, than our ambitious coverage plans for 2016. Hear from beat reporters, editors, developers, producers and the boss himself on what we've got in store for the coming year. Full Story
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During the 2015 legislative session, the Tribune kept you updated daily on the various policy debates and legislative votes at the Texas Capitol. Use our Texas Legislative Guide to see that coverage, discover the fate of every bill and learn even more about the session. Full Story
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In 2015, Sandra Bland's death jolted a conversation about inmate safety and mental health, while high-profile murder cases continued and Texas was criticized for the lengths it reportedly went through to find execution drugs for death row inmates. Full Story
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In August, we featured 31 ways in which Texans' lives would change starting Sept. 1, when many bills passed by the Legislature — including the budget — took effect. Take a look back at our 31 Days, 31 Ways series. Full Story
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