We’re liveblogging this weekend from The Texas Tribune Festival’s Environment track, which features panel discussions on the West fertilizer plant explosion, water, the future of parks and the fight over climate change.
Economy
Get the latest on jobs, business, growth, and policy shaping the state’s economy with in-depth reporting from The Texas Tribune.
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Criminal Justice
After Federal Change, Border Cattle Ranchers, Importers Struggle
A federal decision last year to move USDA cattle inspectors from Ojinaga, Mexico, to Presidio, Texas, has crippled the local livestock industry on both sides of the impoverished border, ranchers and cattle importers say.
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Economy
As Railroad Commission’s Influence Grows, Will Voters Take Interest?
The Railroad Commission, the state’s oil and gas regulator, plays a major role in Texas’ energy production, which has only grown since the state’s drilling boom. But how much do voters care about the commission candidates?
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Economy
Texas Eyes PACE Loans to Boost Energy Efficiency
A diverse coalition is racing to institute a plan to increase energy and water efficiency upgrades that supporters say could help Texas improve its conservation record.
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Demographics
Texas’ Poverty Rate Declines for First Time Since Recession
The percentage of Texans living in poverty dropped from 18.5 percent in 2011 to 17.9 percent in 2012, marking the first decline in the state since the recession began in 2008.
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Economy
Group Targets Perry’s Business-Recruiting Trips
As Gov. Rick Perry visits Maryland in his latest effort to recruit businesses to relocate to Texas, a Washington, D.C.-based group is taking aim at the governor’s trips and raising questions over how they are funded.
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Economy
Perry Takes Aim at Maryland in Latest Campaign
Maryland is Gov. Rick Perry’s latest target as he works to lure out-of-state businesses to the Lone Star State.
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Demographics
Texas Fast-Food Workers to Join Nationwide Strike
Fast-food workers in Houston, Dallas and Austin plan to participate in a nationwide pre-Labor Day strike on Thursday, organizers say. The workers are calling for $15-an-hour wages.
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Economy
Torres Launches First Campaign Video in Comptroller Bid
In his first campaign video as a candidate for comptroller, former state Rep. Raul Torres touts his interests in ending “sweetheart insider deals and politics as usual.” The Corpus Christi Republican also highlights his background as a certified public accountant.
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Demographics
In Rural Texas, Living Without Home Internet
Broadband internet is available to the vast majority of Texans, but many choose not to subscribe, often because they’re not convinced it will enhance their lives.
