Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Tuesday announced he was calling the Legislature back for a special session to address must-pass “sunset” legislation and 19 other measures. Here’s what Texans can expect ahead of July 18.
Guides
Looking for information on how to prepare for a weather emergency? Or do you have questions about Texas politics? The Tribune offers several resources, such as explainers, guides, and articles to provide answers and equip Texans with the right context. You can browse our collection of articles to understand how Texas politics and policies affect you.
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Hey, Texplainer: How do I know if my bill died?
Have a bill you want to check up on? Here’s how to check the Texas Legislature Online website to see if a bill you were following this session survived.
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Texplainer: How do you navigate the Senate intent calendar?
At this point in the session, there are a lot of bills on the Senate’s “intent calendar.” How can you tell which bills will be considered on a given day?
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Why does the Texas criminal code still ban “homosexual conduct”?
The United States Supreme Court ruled in 2003 that a ban on “homosexual conduct” — the act of sex between members of the same sex — was unconstitutional. So why is it still on the books?
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Guides
Hey Texplainer: Is it legal for me to shoot my gun into the air in celebration?
Hey Texplainer: A state lawmaker who was hit in the head by a stray bullet during a New Year’s celebration says he plans to file a bill to stop “celebratory gunfire.” Isn’t shooting your gun into the air already illegal in Texas?
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In light of Arizona ruling, will Texas executions change? A Texplainer
Hey, Texplainer: A federal judge in Arizona just ruled that witnesses have the right to see the full process of an execution, including the administration of lethal drugs. Will this affect how Texas carries out executions?
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Is it legal to burn a U.S. flag? A Texplainer.
President-elect Donald Trump believes those who burn the flag should be jailed. Is it legal to burn the American flag?
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Texplainer: Can I wear my campaign gear to the polls?
Can I wear my partisan political gear when I show up to vote?
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Texplainer: Can I take a ballot selfie in Texas?
Am I breaking Texas law if I take a ballot selfie while casting my vote?
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Amid early voting rush, Texas sees voter ID hiccups
Some Texans are complaining of years-old posters and poll workers who were inaccurately describing the state’s newly softened voter identification rules.