Signs identifying some state lawmakers as former fetuses are generating controversy at the Capitol.
Charlie Geren
High Hopes for Ethics Reform, but It’s Early
Gov. Greg Abbott’s full-throated embrace of ethics reform, a rarity under the Capitol dome, is breathing new life into the issue of years of failed efforts. But changing the status quo remains very much a work in progress.
Ethics Commission Approves Pay Increase for Lawmakers
The Texas Ethics Commission gave approval on Friday to a $40 increase in what lawmakers are given to cover daily expenses while in Austin, which amounts to a $5,600 increase in their pay over the course of the 140-day regular session.
Video: The House vs. the Senate in the 84th Session
Here’s video of our 84th Legislature preview session on the relationship between the House and the Senate. Panelists included state Rep. Trey Martinez Fischer, state Sen. Royce West, state Rep. Charlie Geren and state Sen. Larry Taylor.
The Brief: Dec. 5, 2014
Voters in Senate District 18 go to the polls on Saturday to choose who will serve out the remainder of the term of Glenn Hegar, the state’s next comptroller.
New Texas House Rules: Press Must Affirm They Do Not Lobby
Members of the press will continue to be allowed on the Texas House floor in the upcoming legislative session, but they will now be required that to affirm that they do not lobby.
The Brief: Dec. 17, 2013
California Republican Darrell Issa supplemented a report critical of the health care navigator program with a field hearing in Texas on Monday to further explore those criticisms with a panel tilted heavily toward GOP members.
North Texas Town Upset With Perry’s Veto of Water System Measure
State Rep. Charlie Geren and leaders in the North Texas town of Blue Mound are upset that Gov. Rick Perry vetoed a bill that would have made it easier for the town to gain control of its water system.
Lawmakers Collect Daily Pay Even in Recess
It doesn’t feel much like there’s a special session going on at the state Capitol, but that doesn’t mean taxpayers won’t get a bill for it. Lawmakers get paid whether they’re here or not.
House Sends Campaign Disclosure Bill to Perry
UPDATED: A divisive measure requiring the disclosure of certain unreported political donors passed the House on a 95-52 vote on Tuesday with little of Monday’s debate. The measure now heads to Gov. Rick Perry.

