An Austin church has offered sanctuary to an undocumented Guatemalan immigrant who said returning to her homeland means violence, abuse or even death. As a lesbian, Sulma Franco said she is fighting for herself and others at risk because of their sexual orientation.
Demographics
Explore population trends, diversity, and data shaping Texas communities, politics, and policy.
Posted in
Criminal Justice
Crossings Down; State Buildup Forges Ahead
The numbers of unaccompanied children and families illegally crossing the border into Texas have fallen dramatically, but Gov. Greg Abbott says the state is still justified pumping about $800 million into beefing up border security.
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Criminal Justice
Abbott Signs Bill Mandating Use of E-Verify
Gov. Greg Abbott signed a bill Wednesday that requires state agencies and institutions of higher education to use the federal electronic employment verification system known as E-Verify.
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Demographics
When It Comes to Voting Rights, Who’s a Person?
A Texas case accepted by the U.S. Supreme Court could decide just who a “person” is when voting rights are concerned. The phrase in question is a famous one: “One person, one vote.”
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Criminal Justice
Abbott Signs Sweeping Border Security Bill
Gov. Greg Abbott on Tuesday signed House Bill 11, capping off the final piece of a massive effort by lawmakers to bolster the ranks of state police, increase technology and establish intelligence operations units on the Texas-Mexico border.
Posted inDemographics, Immigration
Look at What Happened With Immigration Issues During the Session
Differences in border security proposals sparked lots of debate during the 84th legislative session. Use our Texas Legislative Guide to see what lawmakers agreed upon, as well as other related issues that were debated this session.
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Criminal Justice
Mexico Loosening Rules for Armed U.S. Agents
Texas lawmakers are celebrating news that Mexico will soon allow U.S. agents to carry guns while inspecting cargo on Mexican soil. The change should help speed trade between the two countries.
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Demographics
Minorities in Forefront of Big City Mayoral Races
As Texas’ major cities continue their decades-long evolution to minority-majority populations, tracking minority and female ascension to mayoral firsts has almost reached the complexity of a political trivia game.
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Criminal Justice
Despite Early Momentum, Immigration Bills Fall Flat
Though campaign promises to enact immigration-enforcement measures and repeal in-state tuition for undocumented students didn’t see the light of day, Republicans who championed the measures said they’ll be back next session to try again.
Posted in
Criminal Justice
House Sends Border Security Bill to Governor
After a months-long staring contest between the House and the Senate, the lower chamber gave a final blessing Thursday to House Bill 11, a sweeping border security bill.
