The state does not track the prevalence or provide guidance on the issue, leaving inmates to languish in jail and eventually sue counties for damages.
State Government
Stay informed on Texas state government with The Texas Tribune’s in-depth coverage of the governor, Legislature, state agencies, and policies shaping the future of Texas.
Court approves new manager for Dallas-area foster care program after deaths of 2 infants
An experienced child welfare manager was appointed to take over case management after “systemic failures” placed children in danger, court records said.
Texas’ drag show restrictions take effect after years of court challenges
The law prohibits sexually explicit drag performances on public property or in front of children.
What Texans need to know about upcoming SNAP restrictions
Starting April 1, Texans will no longer be allowed to use food stamps to buy sweetened beverages and candy.
Corpus Christi water emergency may be just two months away, city leaders say
Two out of the five projections city leaders presented Tuesday showed water shortages beginning in May. The city has yet to detail plans for how to reduce water use for residents and businesses.
Judge orders Texas to extend school voucher deadline in response to lawsuit from Islamic schools
The application period, set to close Tuesday night, must now remain open until March 31, according to an attorney representing Islamic schools.
Harris County to vote on means for labor groups to represent employees for salary, policy talks
If passed, the policy would be the first for a Texas county. Some cities and school districts have similar policies.
Ex-Uvalde schools police chief sues CBP, seeking agents’ testimony in his criminal trial
Prosecutors and attorneys for Pete Arrendondo, who faces charges over the shooting’s botched response, have repeatedly requested U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents to testify. The agency has refused.
As Corpus Christi water shortage worsens, residents and businesses may soon have to cut their usage 25%
The City Council will discuss the looming crisis Tuesday. One model predicted a water emergency in November. Other scenarios show that happening in May.
Why an East Texas rancher donated part of his water rights to the state
As Texas faces growing water challenges, the donation to the Texas Water Trust — a little-known conservation tool created nearly 30 years ago — was the first in two decades.



