On this weekโs TribCast, Ross talks to Alex, Aliyya and Patrick about the inaugurations of Greg Abbott and Dan Patrick, proposed state budgets with big money for schools and the first Texan to enter the 2020 presidential race.
Texas Legislature 2019
The 86th Legislature runs from Jan. 8 to May 27. From the state budget to health care to education policy — and the politics behind it all — we focus on what Texans need to know about the biennial legislative session.
Analysis: At the top of Texas government, three-part harmony
The state’s top leaders have been saying for weeks that they are in sync, and here’s the surprise: Their initial proposals look like they are actually in sync.
Texas House and Senate about $3 billion apart on public education spending
Two rival budget proposals offer a starting point for debate between the two chambers on public school funding and property tax relief.
At inauguration, Gov. Greg Abbott promises “we are going to get this done” on school finance and property taxes
The two top statewide elected officials were sworn in Tuesday to second terms at the helm of Texas government.
Texas Senate proposes $3.7 billion for mandated teacher raises
Senate leaders say they will require districts to use the money to give $5,000 raises to each teacher.
Why do the Texas House and Senate adjourn so early in the day at the beginning of the legislative session?
For the few months of each new 140-day legislative session, the respective chambers typically adjourn after meeting for less than an hour. There are several reasons lawmakers can’t get off to a faster start.
Watch Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick take the oath of office
After winning re-election in November, both Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick are embarking on their second, four-year term. Watch their swearings-in and inaugural speeches here.
Five candidates file in special election to replace state Rep. Justin Rodriguez
Rodriguez, a San Antonio Democrat, was appointed earlier this month to fill a seat on the Bexar County Commissioners Court.
First day of 86th session is “launching pad” for new and veteran members
There’s a lot of work that goes on at the State Capitol even before lawmakers gavel in. This “Under the Dome” episode takes you through the behind-the-scenes start of the 86th Texas Legislature.
Domestic abusers can trap their victims with financial debt. This Texas bill seeks to provide a way out.
A bill authored by state Sen. Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, would make it a felony to threaten a romantic partner into taking on debt or financing expensive items like cars.



