The latest state government news from The Texas Tribune.
The Texas Workforce Commission had finally lined up enough federal money to move the system — built in the 1990s — to the cloud. But before that happened, nearly 2 million suddenly unemployed Texans overwhelmed the old system. Full Story
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Texas’ recovery total is not a tally of the patients no longer experiencing symptoms, but rather an estimate based on a string of assumptions about the virus’ longevity. Full Story
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The facilities are still only testing residents and patients who are symptomatic or were potentially exposed to the virus, despite concerns raised by employees and family members about outbreaks. Full Story
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On Monday, gyms were allowed to reopen in Texas. What's next for Texas' reopening plan? Full Story
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As some pandemic doors are slowly opened, others are getting kicked in. Either way, individual choices are quickly replacing the weeks of government instructions about what and what not to do. Full Story
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Texas has seen a modest but steady increase in the growth of new coronavirus cases in the two weeks since some businesses reopened at 25% capacity. Gov. Greg Abbott sees hope in other metrics. Full Story
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After Shelley Luther was jailed for opening her salon in blatant defiance of emergency orders, top Texas Republicans in all three branches of government scrambled to ensure her release. Full Story
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State and local governments are at odds over what should and should not be allowed during a pandemic — a debate over health, economics and civil liberties. The old sparring partners have increasingly appealed to a referee: the courts. Full Story
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Texas cities and counties have dramatically different interpretations of the state’s COVID-19 emergency orders. Complaint data from a dozen cities shows that disparate approaches to enforcement, particularly among businesses, have been incredibly common. Full Story
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The appeals court ruled against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who argued that a lower court ruling expanding who can qualify for an absentee ballot during the coronavirus pandemic should have no effect while he appeals it. Full Story
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Harris County has seen new cases plateau under the county judge. But her orders designed to slow the spread of the new coronavirus have generated outrage among some conservatives. Full Story
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Last month, the governor said he hoped to reopen bars "on or no later than mid-May.” He has since walked back the timeline for when bars can open their doors to customers, saying he needs more input from doctors. Full Story
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Congress directed most insurance companies to cover test costs for insured patients in March, and has promised to reimburse providers for testing those who are uninsured. But experts say there are gaps in the protection that can leave patients surprised with bills. Full Story
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Even as Gov. Greg Abbott is loosening his pandemic restrictions on people and businesses, he is buckling to opponents who protest that he's moving too slowly. He's undermining his own authority — and enforcement of the rest of his rules. Full Story
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Paxton's office said that there could be litigation if cities do not pull back coronavirus restrictions related to masks, sheltering in place and religious services. Full Story
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In a series of tweets and a public statement, Paxton said eligibility for absentee voting has not been expanded. But a state judge's order says otherwise. Full Story
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COVID-19 has changed the world in ways few imagined possible. As the virus spread across the globe and found its way to Texas, Tribune journalists and photojournalists have been there every step of the way, documenting the changes the new coronavirus has brought into all our lives. Full Story
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Lawmakers widely agree that the Legislature will tap into the Economic Stabilization Fund next session. But under the weight of a crippled economy, many Texans want relief now. Full Story
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Reopening Texas businesses in a contained way gives the appearance of thawing out a frozen economy while keeping crowds at bay. That might make people feel better, but it's no way to supercharge an economy. Full Story
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Our staff is closely tracking developments on the new coronavirus in Texas. Check here for live updates. Full Story
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