State news in Texas
Statewide Texas News
Texas Senators Move to End State DEI Programs and Enforce Biological Sex Designations
One measure bans DEI from state agencies, while another prohibits changes to birth certificates based on “gender identity.”
Sources: Former Texas Lottery Director Reportedly Missing
Sources say authorities have been unable to find Gary Grief, and he could have fled to Mexico. An attorney for Grief has disputed that claim.
Texas House Committee Considers Limiting Foreign Land Ownership
Despite its national security framing, the bill is also drawing fire from some conservatives who argue it doesn’t go far enough.
Texas Lottery Vendor IGT Has Been Fined for Contract Violations
The company argues in a legal filing it didn’t knowingly break the rules.
State Archive
Is a Democrat the Real Chair of Higher Ed?
When House Speaker Joe Straus named his committee assignments last week, there was considerable buzz and surprise surrounding his appointment of Rep. John Zerwas to serve as Chairman of the House Committee on Higher Education. Zerwas is replacing Dan Branch, who left...
Transportation Reform: Restore Local Control, Accountability
Before throwing more tax money at a misunderstood transportation crisis, the legislature should first maximize the effectiveness of existing funds. But in addition to placing restrictions on how tax dollars are used, the legislature should also restrict the ability of...
Governing Like California: Insult or Aspiration for Straus?
Is Speaker Joe Straus trying to run the Texas House like a Californian? Sounds like a silly question. He’s a Texan after all. And pointing out the all the mistakes our West Coast neighbors have made over the years has virtually become our unofficial state pastime. Any...
Serve The People
Legislation filed by State Sen. Van Taylor of Plano is designed to discourage legislators from monetizing public service. Calling SB 555 the "Serve the People, Not the Lobby Act,” Taylor's legislation would prohibit a registered lobbyist from being eligible to be a...
The Basic Mechanics of Tax Relief
The Senate base budget plan has received much attention since it was released on January 25, 2015, primarily for its provisions for $4 billion in tax relief for property and business owners. Conservatives have applauded this measure, while moderates have decried it as...
Senate Aims to Expand Gun Rights
Gun rights took center stage on Thursday as the Senate State Affairs Committee conducted hearings on legislation that would expand the rights of Texans. After hearing testimony throughout the entire day, the Senate State Affairs Committee voted on a party line of 7-2...
Property Tax Limits Terrify Local Politicians, Lobbyists
While tax cuts are dismissed as “gimmicks” in the Straus-lead House, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick continues his push for property tax reform in the Senate. Consequently, county and local governments are terrified that their ability to indiscriminately grow government is...
Capitol Cover-Up Unravels
This morning brings sad revelations that House Speaker Joe Straus has undoubtedly participated in what is one of the most disgusting cover-ups in Texas' modern history. This is, of course, referring to Straus' attempt to bully, threaten and intimidate...
Straus Attacks Abbott Agenda
Throwing what can best be described as a wide-ranging temper tantrum in the face of unease among his inner-circle, House Speaker Joe Straus on Wednesday lashed out at many of Gov. Greg Abbott's marquee proposals and attacked the conservative Senate led by Lt. Gov. Dan...