The Texas Senate voted to give charter schools state money to build facilities, with a caveat: traditional public schools get a little extra, too.
85th Legislative Session
Posted in
Demographics
“Sanctuary” bill heads back to Senate after marathon House debate
A bill that would outlaw “sanctuary” jurisdictions in Texas cleared its last procedural hurdle in the Texas House Thursday afternoon, just hours after the end of a marathon debate on the measure that stretched into Thursday morning.
Posted in
State Government
Ahead of 2018, trial likely looms in Texas political map battle
“I think the trial is certain,” said Jose Garza, an attorney for the Mexican American Legislative Caucus, a lead plaintiff in the years-long challenge of the state’s political boundaries.
Posted in
Economy
House panel considers bill requiring parental consent for minors to join unions
A House committee Thursday considered a proposal that would require parental consent for minors to join a labor union.
Posted in
Demographics
After emotional debate, Texas House tentatively passes “sanctuary” legislation
The 93-54 vote fell along party lines and came after one of the slowest moving but most emotional legislative days at the state Capitol.
Posted in
Economy
Bills would undo cities’ efforts to rein in payday lenders, advocates warn
Dozens of Texas cities have passed ordinances regulating payday and auto title lenders that are stricter than current state and federal rules. Some state lawmakers are hoping to eliminate them.
Posted in
Economy
Texas House to debate franchise tax cut that would hit public schools
Businesses dislike the franchise tax because they say it’s overly complicated and can punish them in less-prosperous years. But critics warn the tax cut would harm public schools and other government programs.
Posted in
Criminal Justice
Dallas police officers, firefighters rail against mayor’s handling of pension crisis
Mike Rawlings says he’s trying to protect taxpayers as he opposes bill aimed at fixing shortfall. But first responders say he could exacerbate a shortage of police officers and firefighters.
Posted in
Public Education
Senate approves bill to require seat belts on school buses
Senate Bill 693 cleared the chamber in a 25-6 vote following strong pushback from one Republican who argued seat belts make buses less safe.
Posted inState Government
How grassroots groups are mobilizing Texans on top issues
Five community organizers tell us how they rally people around issues like school funding, abortion and the environment.
