Well before the current legislative standoff over public accommodations for transgender Texans, the political elements of the “bathroom bill” fight were falling into place.
85th Legislative Session
Posted in
State Government
Will Straus become Texas’ longest-serving House speaker? 7 things to keep in mind
The San Antonio Republican defied threats of a special session and stood his ground on the GOP’s battles over bathroom legislation and property tax elections. Now, he’s eyeing a sixth term leading the lower chamber.
Posted in
Higher Education
Lawmakers vote to fund veterinary medicine at Texas Tech
The Texas Tech University’s plans for a veterinary school were “on pause” when the legislative session began. But lawmakers voted Saturday to allocate $4.1 million for the project.
Posted in
State Government
Chances of House, Senate agreement on property taxes appear slim
The House adjourned for the day Saturday without appointing conferees to work out its differences with the Senate on property tax legislation.
Posted in
Politics
“Buy American” iron and steel bill gets legislative approval
On Saturday, both chambers approved a “Buy American” iron and steel bill that will expand a provision already in effect for the Texas Department of Transportation and the Texas Water Development Board. The measure now heads to Gov. Greg Abbott’s desk.
Posted in
State Government
Texas Legislature sends $217 billion budget to Gov. Abbott
Amid increased talk of a special session over other issues, both the Texas House and Senate voted Saturday evening to approve a $217 billion, two-year budget, the only bill lawmakers are required to pass.
Posted in
Health care
Texas House moves to require more abortion reporting data
Health facilities that perform abortions may soon have to release data on complications that arise during and after the procedure — another move by GOP lawmakers to crack down on abortions in Texas.
Posted in
Criminal Justice
Texas lawmakers pass bill making attacks on police, judges a hate crime
Under the bill, any crime against either group that results in serious bodily injury would be a first-degree felony, which carries a sentence of up to 99 years or life in prison.
Posted in
Politics
Analysis: Oversized tweets from a Texas trainwreck
It’s the last Saturday of the legislative session — a day combining long, boring periods of inactivity with high levels of drama. In other words: perfect for a wandering mind.
Posted in
Energy
Texas Senate sends bill to governor discouraging weather-related lawsuits
A tort-reform bill that would discourage property owners from suing insurers over weather-related claims tentatively passed the Texas Senate on Tuesday.
