When Texas voters are asked to show a photo ID at the polls in January, they will join voters in 29 other states that have adopted voter identification requirements — but only six of which require photo identification.
voter ID
Posted inImmigration
Visualizing Days of Lege Debate: Immigration
The controversial “sanctuary cities” bill failed to pass, but other immigration-related bills advanced and were signed by the governor. Explore this interactive to pinpoint the days lawmakers debated issues related to immigration.
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Demographics
Proof of Legal Status Now Required for State-Issued ID Cards
An amendment attached to SB 1 during the special session will require applicants for driver’s licenses and other state-issued identification cards to produce government-issued documents affirming their legal status.
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Demographics
Sanctuary Cities Added to Special Session Call
Gov. Rick Perry has added controversial immigration and homeland security measures to the agenda for the special legislative session that began last week.
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Criminal Justice
20 Weeks in Which the Budget Held Sway
The 82nd Texas Legislature’s regular session ends as it started, with lawmakers arguing about a shrunken state budget and redistricting.
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State Government
House Adopts Voter ID Conference Report
House Democrats put up one final fight against the voter ID bill but begrudgingly saw it move one step closer to the governor’s desk today.
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Demographics
Voter Bill Draws Familiar Fight
In keeping with Republican lawmakers’ promises to strengthen state voting laws, the House today tentatively passed a bill that would make it a separate punishable offense for an illegal immigrant or non-citizen to vote or attempt to vote.
Posted in
State Government
Senate Adopts Voter ID Report
The state Senate today approved a conference committee report on the voter identification bill that includes changes that would allow citizens to use a new form of documentation to cast their ballots.
Posted in
State Government
Puppies, and the Legislative Power of Distraction
It’s tense at the Texas Capitol. It’s May — the last month of the session. Deadlines are arriving daily. Bills are dying. Legislative wish lists are drying up and blowing away. Blame the puppies.
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Demographics
Where Are Perry’s Emergency Items?
With fewer than five weeks left in the regular session, none of Gov. Rick Perry’s emergency items — voter ID, sanctuary cities, sonograms for women getting abortions, a federal balanced budget amendment, and eminent domain protection — have made it to his desk.
