As tens of thousands of Texans try to file unemployment insurance claims, they’re finding the Texas Workforce Commission’s phone lines jammed and website servers overloaded as the agency is swamped by the crush of sudden need.
Stories by Texas Tribune fellows
The Texas Tribune welcomes a group of student fellows into our newsroom each spring, summer and fall. Here is a sampling of their work. Learn more about the fellowship program here.
Posted in
Coronavirus in Texas
Federal judge temporarily blocks Texas’ ban on abortions during coronavirus pandemic
The court granted abortion providers’ motion to temporarily block the state from enforcing the order, which was set to expire April 21, as it relates to abortions.
Posted in
Coronavirus in Texas
Is Cabela’s an “essential” business? Texas counties differ on who should work during shelter in place
With Gov. Greg Abbott resisting calls for a statewide stay-at-home order, local officials are tasked with deciding which businesses and employees are essential. This strategy means the rules differ from county to county, and many employees are confused about why they’re being called in to work.
Posted in
Coronavirus in Texas
Abortion providers sue Texas over coronavirus-related order
Attorney General Ken Paxton said this week that abortions should not be performed unless the mother’s life is in danger, saying health care capacity needs to be preserved for COVID-19 patients.
Posted in
Coronavirus in Texas
How many coronavirus cases in Texas? Depends on who you ask
On Tuesday evening, Texas launched a new system for reporting cases of COVID-19. Officials said the new system will bring the state’s count closer to those of counties and other sources that were reporting hundreds more cases.
Posted in
Coronavirus in Texas
No abortions in Texas unless the mother’s life is in danger, Texas attorney general says as coronavirus spreads
The warning comes one day after Gov. Greg Abbott ordered health care facilities and professionals to postpone all procedures that are deemed “not medically necessary” as the state gears up for an influx of patients with COVID-19.
Posted in
Coronavirus in Texas
As coronavirus sparks rumors, Houston officials dispel social media myth of a citywide lockdown
Officials say they’re investigating whoever is behind the misinformation campaign, which they say only creates anxiety and fear.
Posted in
Coronavirus in Texas
Government guidelines urge people to work from home. So why are government workers required to come to the office?
President Donald Trump issued guidelines suggesting people avoid groups larger than 10 people. Last week, Gov. Greg Abbott directed state agencies to provide flexible and remote work options to employees. But many government workers still don’t have the option.
Posted in
Coronavirus in Texas
Staying home slows the coronavirus, but what if you’re homeless?
Local, state and national leaders are recommending people take a range of actions to protect themselves from the new coronavirus. But for those without homes, many of those measures are next to impossible.
Posted in
Coronavirus in Texas
Texas hospitals don’t have enough beds for coronavirus patients if too many people get sick at once
Texas has about 2.9 hospital beds per 1,000 people — less than one-fourth the rate of South Korea.