Politics
Here are some Texas lawmakers not seeking reelection
Posted on · The third special legislative session has wrapped up. Here’s a look at the lawmakers who’ve announced they won’t return to their seats in the 88th legislature.
Tag: texas senate
Redistricting
First lawsuit filed challenging new Texas political maps as intentionally discriminatory
Posted on · Before they’re even signed into law, the state’s new maps for congressional and statehouse districts have been challenged in federal court by the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund.
Politics
Texas lawmakers pass controversial new map for the U.S. House of Representatives
Posted on · While Democrats hold firm in their accusations of racial gerrymandering, Republicans passed a map reallocating Texas’ seats in the U.S. House. A court challenge is likely ahead.
Politics
A bill to increase criminal penalties for illegal voting has passed in the Texas Senate
Posted on · Senate Bill 10 would make illegal voting a second-degree felony, after a last-minute change to Texas' controversial voting law rendered it a Class-A misdemeanor.
Politics
GOP Voting Bills Aimed At Harris County Reforms Are Suppression, Civil Rights Groups Say
Posted on · The ACLU, the Anti-Defamation League and others slammed the bills, which they say are unjust and make it harder to vote. Harris County leaders, meanwhile, say their reforms are the target.
Guns
Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick Says Senate Currently Lacks The Votes To Pass Permitless Carry Of Handguns
Posted on · "I plan to meet with law enforcement who oppose permitless carry and with the [National Rifle Association] and [Gun Owners of America] who support it to see if we can find a path that a majority of senators will vote to pass,” Patrick said.
Criminal Justice
Texas Senate Approves Bail Bill That Would Keep More People In Jail If They Can’t Post Cash Bonds
Posted on · Senate Bill 21 would require cash bail for people who have ever been convicted of a violent crime.
Health & Science
A Series Of Anti-Abortion Bills Is Quickly Moving Through The Texas Legislature
Posted on · Bills aimed at restricting access to abortions in Texas are moving quickly through the state Legislature.
Politics
Texas Senate Approves A $250 Billion State Budget — But Questions Remain About How Federal Aid Will Be Used
Posted on · The budget does not factor in over $35 billion in federal aid. Senators said they don't yet know when that money will come in and what strings could be attached.
Politics
Texas Senate Advances Bill Limiting How And When Voters Can Cast Ballots, Receive Mail-In Voting Applications
Posted on · Senate Bill 7 is at the forefront of Texas Republicans’ crusade to further restrict voting in the state after last year’s election.
Politics
Conservative Activist, Texas Agriculture Secretary Sue Over Senate COVID-19 Testing Rule
Posted on · The lawsuit charges that the rule violates Texas constitutional protections for free speech and the right to petition government for the redress of grievances.
Energy & Environment
Electricity Repricing Bill Hits Wall In Texas House, Marking First Major Schism With Senate This Session
Posted on · Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said the House "stood for big business" after Speaker Dade Phelan signaled skepticism about reversing billions of dollars in charges for wholesale electricity during last month’s winter storm.
Energy & Environment
Texas Senate Scrambles To Advance Bill That Would Force ERCOT To Reprice Energy Charges From Winter Storm
Posted on · Senate Bill 2142, sponsored by state Sen. Bryan Hughes, R-Mineola, had not even been filed when the day started Monday, but lawmakers suspended their rules to hastily push it through the Senate.
Texas
How To Connect With Your Texas Lawmakers During The Pandemic
Posted on · While COVID-19 guidelines will vary between lawmakers’ offices, communication between legislators and the public will largely consist of phone and video calls or small, in-person meetings by appointment.
Texas
Update: Phelan Sworn In As Texas House Speaker On Opening Day Of 2021 Texas Legislative Session
Posted on · Lawmakers will convene at noon in the State Capitol, where new senators and representatives will be sworn in. Between the coronavirus pandemic and last week’s insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, many have concerns about safety today.