A new state law increases what SNAP applicants’ vehicles can be worth before they’re disqualified for federal food assistance. But most states don’t take car values into consideration at all.
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.
From new funding to state intervention in elections, this year’s legislative session left big stamp on Houston
During a Texas Tribune event in Houston, state Sen. Carol Alvarado and Taylor Landin of the Greater Houston Partnership discussed the big takeaways of the regular session for their city.
Posted in
LGBTQ+ Texans
LGBTQ+ Texans move forward with Pride plans despite tense political environment and fears of violence
Organizers across Texas are balancing a focus on security and a celebration of community after state lawmakers pushed scores of bills that threatened to upend the lives of LGBTQ+ Texans.
Posted in
Texas Legislature 2023
As Texas swelters, local rules requiring water breaks for construction workers will soon be nullified
Gov. Greg Abbott approved a law this week that will eliminate city and county ordinances like Austin’s and Dallas’ mandated water breaks.
Posted in
Politics
Texas Democrat leads renewed push in Congress to grant citizenship to DACA recipients
With support from several Republicans, U.S. Rep. Sylvia Garcia hopes migrants brought illegally to the country as children can get out of “limbo.”
Posted in
Texas Legislature 2023
Gov. Greg Abbott threatens string of vetoes if lawmakers can’t agree on property tax cuts
With several hundred bills awaiting action by the governor, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick called the veto threat an affront to Texans and the legislative process.
Posted in
Texas Legislature 2023
Trap-neuter-release programs for cats are now legally protected in Texas
Animal advocates are deeply divided over whether so-called TNR policies are a good idea. A bill signed by the governor last weekend gives them legal protection statewide.
Posted in
Texas Legislature 2023
With $1.4 billion investment, Texas hopes to sprint to the front of the microchip manufacturing race
Microchips are increasingly present in every day life, from phones and laptops to cars and washing machines. Gov. Greg Abbott approved last week a stimulus package in an effort to shore up the supply chain after the pandemic’s disruptions.
Posted in
Politics
Texas Republicans in Congress stand behind Donald Trump after federal indictment
GOP lawmakers dismiss the charges over classified documents as a partisan attack, but Democrats say the matter proves nobody is above the law.
Posted in
Graphics and data reporting
Almost two years since Kabul fell, a frayed refugee system creates obstacles for Afghans in Texas
The refugee system in Texas and nationally is still recovering from major cuts under the Trump administration. The latest casualty is Texas’ largest resettlement agency, Refugee Services of Texas.
