One way that invasive aquatic species like the zebra mussel can spread across Texas waterways is via boats that aren’t cleaned. New legislation requires boater education courses to address the importance of cleaning boats. This story is part of our monthlong 31 Days, 31 Ways series.
31 Days, 31 Ways (2013)
Throughout August 2013, The Texas Tribune featured 31 ways Texans’ lives would change come Sept. 1, the date many bills passed by the Legislature — including the budget — took effect.
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31 Days, 31 Ways (2013)
Meningitis Vaccine Rules Scaled Back at Colleges
Fewer college students will be required to have meningitis vaccinations, and new rules also make it easier for some students to opt out of the vaccinations. This story is part of our 31 Days, 31 Ways series.
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31 Days, 31 Ways (2013)
In an Accident, Drivers Have New Reasons to Stay
With new laws increasing the penalties for drivers involved in hit-and-run fatalities or those who fail to stop and render aid, advocates hope there is more incentive for drivers to stay at the scene of accidents. This story is part of our monthlong 31 Days, 31 Ways series.
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31 Days, 31 Ways (2013)
Extra Cash Means New Equipment for 911 System
Lawmakers have increased the Commission on State Emergency Services’ budget by 33 percent. That will help update its 911 system, which serves 224 of Texas’ 254 counties. This story is part of our 31 Days, 31 Ways series.
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31 Days, 31 Ways (2013)
Dental Board’s Review Process Gets Makeover
After hearing critics take aim at the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners, legislators approved new regulations that they hope will improve the board’s efficiency. This story is part of our monthlong 31 Days, 31 Ways series.
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31 Days, 31 Ways (2013)
Proxy Marriage Limits End Inmate Weddings
A new constraint on proxy marriage in Texas — a measure intended to prevent fraud — will have a secondary effect: It will end prison inmates’ ability to tie the knot. This story is part of our month-long 31 Days, 31 Ways series.
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31 Days, 31 Ways (2013)
New Council to Focus on Extended Learning Programs at Schools
The state’s new Expanded Learning Opportunities Council will be charged with developing a statewide action plan to improve and create extended learning opportunities in public schools. This story is part of our monthlong 31 Days, 31 Ways series.
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31 Days, 31 Ways (2013)
Money for DPS to Help With Backlog of Rape Kits
Thousands of untested rape kits are likely to get processed for DNA evidence after state budget writers included $11 million for the effort in the 2014-15 budget. This story is part of our monthlong 31 Days, 31 Ways series.
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31 Days, 31 Ways (2013)
State Awaits Federal Guidance to Drug Test Jobless Texans
Texans who work in some industries must already take drug tests as a condition of employment. Soon, they will also face them if they lose their jobs and seek unemployment. This story is part of our 31 Days, 31 Ways series.
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31 Days, 31 Ways (2013)
Craft Breweries Seeing New Doors Open
Texas’ craft brewers are facing the biggest legislative overhaul the industry has seen in 20 years. News laws are letting them expand sales of their products. This story is part of our monthlong 31 Days, 31 Ways series.