Virtual learning, A-through-F school ratings and teacher quality were among the topics covered by broad slate of education reform bills announced by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Education Chairman Larry Taylor on Tuesday.
84th Legislative Session
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Politics
The Playlist: The Race is On
The first University of Texas/Texas Tribune poll of 2015 had good news for likely White House hopefuls Scott Walker and Hillary Clinton — so we’re kicking off this week’s playlist with George Jones singing “The Race Is On.”
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State Government
Roundup: Polls and Property Tax Cuts
This week in the Roundup, we take a look at the latest University of Texas/Texas Tribune Poll and a proposal by state Senate leaders to offer tax relief to property owners and businesses.
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Public Education
House Takes the Lead on Abbott’s Pre-K Charge
A week after Gov. Greg Abbott put early education reform on the legislative fast track, top House lawmakers announced Thursday what is likely to become the major pre-kindergarten bill of the session.
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Health care
Video: Revamped CPRIT Faces New Questions from Lawmakers
As the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas rebuilds its image after a scandal tied to grant awards, its leaders face a new generation of conservative lawmakers who are questioning whether the state should be in the cancer-fighting business.
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Transportation
Lawmaker’s Bill a Silver Bullet to Stop Train
A bill filed by state Rep. Will Metcalf, R-Conroe, Wednesday would require the governing body of every city and county along the route to approve a planned high-speed rail project. There’s very little chance that would happen.
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Politics
Senate Leaders Propose $4.6 Billion in Tax Breaks
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has announced a slate of bills he says will provide lasting tax relief to businesses and homeowners in Texas — to the tune of $4.6 billion. But there are signs he could face some opposition within his own party.
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Politics
Inside Texas Politics: Gay Marriage and Immigration
On this week’s edition of WFAA-TV’s Inside Texas Politics, talk turns to some state Republicans’ rhetoric after recent gay marriage and immigration rulings — will their celebrations now make them seem out of touch in the future?
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Demographics
Roundup: Abbott’s Agenda and High-Profile Court Rulings
In the Roundup: The new governor delivers his first State of the State address, leaders react to a court’s decision on the president’s immigration order and a county judge in Texas rules the state’s ban on same-sex marriage unconstitutional.
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Politics
Video: Castro on San Antonio Politics
At our 2/19 conversation, U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro, D-San Antonio, commented on the just-decided special election in Senate District 26 and the coming mayor’s race in his hometown.