In each of the Texas Legislature’s chambers, a nonpartisan voice plays a pivotal role in how lawmakers conduct state business in the Capitol. As part of an occasional series explaining the Legislature’s inner workings, we provide you a look at the job of the parliamentarian.
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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Guides
Texplainer: Do Falling Oil Prices Threaten Budget?
Hey, Texplainer: I heard that oil prices are plunging – down more than 20 percent since June. What does that mean for the state budget?
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Guides
Texplainer: What’s Next for State After School Finance Ruling?
Hey, Texplainer: I know the state plans to appeal a judge’s recent decision that Texas’ school finance system is unconstitutional. But what will the state’s defense be moving forward?
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Guides
Texplainer: Does New AP U.S. History Curriculum Contain Common Core?
Hey, Texplainer: If high school students take AP U.S. history, does that mean they are studying Common Core? Wouldn’t that be illegal in Texas?
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Guides
Texplainer: Besides Elections, What’s Happening Today?
The Democrats are delaying their usual primary election night precinct conventions until March 22, when they hold county conventions. The state’s Republicans will hold some tonight and combine others with the county conventions.
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Guides
Texplainer: Is the AG Legally Required to Defend a State Law?
Hey, Texplainer: Could Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott choose to not defend a law? What are the state attorney general’s responsibilities when it comes to lawsuits against Texas?
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Guides
Texplainer: What’s an Energy Capacity Market?
Hey, Texplainer: There are discussions that Texas might transform its energy market, shifting from “energy only” to a “capacity” market. What does that mean, and why does it matter?
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Guides
Texplainer: How is the Texas Grid Managed?
Hey, Texplainer: How do state officials make sure the electricity stays on during the many long, hot days of the Texas summer?
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Guides
Texplainer: What Does the Parliamentarian Do?
Who was the woman talking into the Senate presiding officer’s ear during the filibuster watched around the world? Parliamentarians offer nonpartisan and confidential advice about legislative rules and practice.
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Guides
Texplainer: What Are the Rules of a Filibuster?
State Sen. Wendy Davis is trying to talk to death an abortion bill that she and other Democrats oppose. The rules for filibustering could make the hours until midnight tough ones for the Fort Worth Democrat.