Like ringing the bell at the boxing ring, the Senate today approved a bill that is all but certain to restart a brawl with the House over how to reform the state’s windstorm insurer of last resort. “I intend to fight for this tougher than I’ve ever fought for anything,” said state Sen. John Carona.
Austin
Posted in
Energy
In Austin, Growing Water Needs and Conservation
As Austin prepares to tighten its watering restrictions to once a week later this summer, trees and lawns — not to mention the water utility’s revenues — are suffering. Long-term, Austin and nearby cities want to ensure the continued health of the Highland Lakes.
Posted in
Energy
Audio: Austin Hopes for Healthy Lakes
Austin hopes to keep plenty of water in the nearby Highland Lakes over the long term, to reduce the risks posed by drought.
Posted in
Energy
As Highland Lakes’ Levels Fall, Residents Fret
As Lake Buchanan and Lake Travis drop lower each day, worried locals are seeing their swimming coves dry up, and it’s not just because of lack of rain. Rice farmers and Central Texas cities are taking a good share of the water.
Posted in
State Government
Updated: As Special Session Winds Down, TWIA Fight Continues
Calling it “absolutely” must-pass legislation, Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst said this afternoon he is working with senators to hammer out a bill to reform the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association.
Posted in
Health care
Updated: Senate Committee Votes Out Smoking Ban
Senate lawmakers pushed a ban on smoking in public places out of committee this afternoon, sending it to the full upper chamber for a vote.
Posted in
Energy
In Central Texas, Dwindling Lakes and Growing Water Demand
The current drought, drier than any other October-through-May stretch in Texas history, has heightened the stakes in an already contentious long-term planning battle over water from the Highland Lakes.
Posted inState Government
Audio: Perry’s Speech in New Orleans
Gov. Rick Perry’s Saturday speech during the Republican Leadership Conference at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside Hotel.
Posted inState Government
Perry Fires Up GOP Voters in New Orleans
Gov. Rick Perry, who has acknowledged thinking about running for president in 2012, fired up Republican voters Saturday in New Orleans, where conservative activists were anxious to hear a game plan for beating Barack Obama.
Posted in
Demographics
Video: The Week in Texas Politics Recap: June 13 to June 17, 2011
Want a quick recap of some of the happenings this week in the Texas Legislature? We’ve made it easier for you with our weekly video rundown of the action under the dome.
