The 2023 legislative session started with a $32.7 billion surplus. It was mired in Republican infighting and multiple scandals. Then, the House impeached the state’s attorney general.
Politics
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Ken Paxton Impeachment
Texas House names Ken Paxton impeachment managers; Senate trial will start by Aug. 28
Seven Republicans and five Democrats make up the board of managers who will handle the prosecution in the trial. In the Senate, a committee will recommend rules of procedure on June 20.
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Ken Paxton Impeachment
The first time Texas Senate convicted a state official, the chaotic trial lasted three weeks
In 1917, lawmakers debated the extent of their constitutional authority before they convicted Gov. James “Pa” Ferguson and removed him from office.
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Ken Paxton Impeachment
Lawyer currently leading Texas attorney general’s office has been swept up in Ken Paxton’s legal challenges
Brent Webster came to the Texas attorney general’s office in 2020. His work as Ken Paxton’s top aide was quickly mired in controversy.
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Texas Legislature 2023
Republican priorities on school choice, border fail, but late-night compromises resurrect others
Rushed agreements and suspended rules rescue legislation on the electric grid and economic incentives for companies, and work is still being done on a property tax proposal.
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Texas Legislature 2023
Late deal sends new economic incentives for businesses to governor
After the previous, widely criticized program expired in December, lawmakers worked hard to craft a plan that won overwhelming support in both chambers.
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Texas Legislature 2023
Lawmakers approve school safety bill that would require an armed person at every Texas campus
The bill comes in response to the Uvalde school shooting last year that left 19 children and two adults dead.
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Texas Legislature 2023
Texas Legislature passes bill reining in “rogue” prosecutors
The GOP priority legislation could remove prosecutors from office if they don’t pursue certain crimes. The bill gained traction after some Democratic district attorneys said they would not prosecute abortion-related crimes.
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Texas Legislature 2023
Final approval given to bill allocating $1.5 billion to broadband expansion in Texas
Voters will be asked to approve a state constitutional amendment to create the Broadband Infrastructure Fund.
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LGBTQ+ Texans
Bill restricting sexually explicit performances in front of children heads to the governor
Originally pitched as an effort to restrict children from seeing certain drag shows, the House and Senate agreed on a version of the bill that could still ensnare LGBTQ performers.
