SB 3070, which awaits Gov. Greg Abbott’s signature, would move the lottery game to Texas’ Department of Licensing and Regulation and includes new restrictions on ticket purchases.
Public Education
Explore The Texas Tribune’s coverage of public education, from K-12 schools and funding to teachers, students, and policies shaping classrooms across Texas.
Bill that would ban cellphones in Texas public schools heads to Gov. Greg Abbott’s desk
Research shows cellphones interfere with students’ ability to focus in class. Texas would join at least nine other states that ban students from using their phones during the school day.
Texas Legislature approves $8.5 billion boost for public schools after years of stagnant funding
Gov. Greg Abbott has already said he intends to sign the bill, which will give schools funding for salary increases, special education, teacher preparation and operational costs.
Texas House, Senate will seek middle ground on bill to scrap STAAR test
The chambers differ on how much power districts should have to push back in courts over their accountability ratings. They risk keeping STAAR by default if they don’t reach an agreement.
Texas poised to add $100 million to child care scholarship program
Reallocated funding for the program that will go to providers will benefit nearly 95,000 children on a waitlist for scholarships.
Texas to expand how schools discipline students
House Bill 6, which now heads to the governor, targets the increase in violence that has plagued schools since the pandemic.
TribCast: Dan Patrick and Greg Abbott are getting what they want this legislative session
In this week’s episode, Matthew and Eleanor talk with politics reporter Jasper Scherer about education funding, a THC ban and the success of conservative priorities this year.
An East Texas community grapples with school closures as education options shift
The schools were closed last week after years of declining enrollment. The school communities said increased choices were to blame.
$8.5 billion school funding package passes Texas Senate
The legislation includes new pots of money for teacher raises and other school costs like insurance and transportation. It now heads to the House, where leaders say it will pass.
Prayer period in schools backed by Texas Legislature
A House vote showed broad support for the measure that would let districts set aside time for prayer or religious study.

