Hey, Texplainer: Can the Lege override the governor’s veto of legislation passed in the regular session — once the regular session is over? The governor says no. But it’s murky. Two expert opinions offer somewhat conflicting views.
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
Updated: Texplainer: Is TSA “Groping” Bill Junk Legislation?
Hey, Texplainer: Can Texas really stop the TSA from touching my privates when I go through airport security? Short answer: No.
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Guides
Texplainer: How Does a Special Session Work?
Hey, Texplainer: How does a special session work? And how is it different from the regular session?
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Guides
Texplainer: Are There Deadlines for Considering Legislation?
Hey, Texplainer: What’s all the talk about deadlines at the Legislature this week? Aren’t there three weeks left in the session?
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Guides
Texplainer: What’s a Third Reading?
The first reading is just an introduction, the second reading is when the action happens, and the third reading is for final passage.
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Guides
Texplainer: What Does It Cost to Fight Texas Wildfires?
As the wildfires have worsened, costs have mounted at a rate of over $1 million per day. The state will pay the majority, though local governments and the feds will also pay a share.
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Guides
Texplainer: How Will High Gas Prices Affect the Budget?
With gasoline costing $1 more than a year ago, budget planners can add fuel expenditures to their list of worries. However, it’s also true that oil companies will also pay more in taxes to the state as they beef up their drilling operations.
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Guides
Texplainer: Why Are There Two Calendars Committees?
With more than 3,000 bills and only 140 days to pass them, somebody’s got to set priorities and make a schedule. Those somebodies are on the calendars committees.
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Guides
Texplainer: What Happens To Texas If The Feds Shut Down?
Not much, unless you’re one of the state’s 130,000 civilian federal employees — or you’re scrambling to get your taxes done.
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Guides
Texplainer: Are All Committee Meetings Televised?
Generally, committee meetings are open to the public and recorded — one way or another.