The bill previously lacked the votes to advance out of House committee. After House Democrats spiked one of his bills, Rep. Harold Dutton, D-Houston, revived it.
Politics
Stay informed with The Texas Tribune’s in-depth political coverage, including Texas elections, state government, policy debates, and the leaders shaping the future of the state.
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Texas Legislature 2021
As hot-button issues dominate Texas legislative session, Gov. Greg Abbott sends clear signals on some conservative priorities
His approach differs somewhat from past sessions, when Abbott kept legislators in suspense on whether certain hot-button proposals would have his support.
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Health care
State Rep. John Raney tests positive for coronavirus after being inside Capitol this week
Raney, who has been fully vaccinated since February, “went home immediately and, as of this evening, is doing well,” his office said in a statement. The CDC says a “small percentage” of people who have been vaccinated can still contract COVID-19.
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Winter Storm 2021
Texas lawmakers propose electricity market bailout after winter storm
Lawmakers argue that spreading costs through the whole market — which will get passed through to consumers’ bills — is necessary to stabilize the state’s electricity market and prevent even higher costs.
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Texas Legislature 2021
Protesters who obstruct emergency vehicles could face felony charges under bill passed by Texas House
The bill is in response to nationwide protests against police brutality last year.
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University of Texas/Texas Tribune Polls
Analysis: Texas voters signal a turn to normal, in more ways than one
Texas voters are returning to normal pre-pandemic activities, and to their customary civic and political concerns, too. The changes are evident in the latest University of Texas/Texas Tribune Poll.
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Politics
Austin’s camping ban returns Tuesday, but it’s not clear when — or how — it will be enforced
While city leaders are analyzing possible housing options for people experiencing homelessness, advocates warn against using aggressive tactics to enforce the ban.
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Texas Legislature 2021
Texas House advances bill that would ban homeless encampments in public
The bill still needs final approval by the House — usually a formality after it’s passed in the chamber’s first vote — and then will head to the Senate.
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Texas Legislature 2021
Permitless carry of a handgun in Texas nearly law, after Senate OKs bill
House Bill 1927 would nix the requirement for Texas residents to obtain a license to carry handguns if they’re not prohibited by state or federal law from possessing a gun.
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Politics
Texas GOP gears up for contentious runoff in TX-6 congressional race as Democrats grapple with being shut out
The runoff pits Susan Wright against fellow Republican Jake Ellzey after Democrats failed to advance a candidate in the Saturday special election.
