In the Lower Rio Grande Valley, eradication efforts aimed at the boll weevil — an insect that can destroy the yields of cotton plants — are benefiting in part from the current drought.
Elizabeth Koh
Posted in
31 Days, 31 Ways (2013)
Job-Training Program Adjusts Amid Cuts
A grant program that focuses on training students in fields like high-tech manufacturing and computer support is undergoing funding cuts as a result of legislation passed during this year’s regular session. This story is part of our 31 Days, 31 Ways series.
Posted inState Government
Climate-Controlled Swine Buildings Dismay Advocates for Inmates
Criminal justice advocates are objecting to a Texas Department of Criminal Justice contract that would provide cooling capabilities to units housing the agency’s swine herd.
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Energy
Guadalupe River State Park Cuts Back on Water Service
Because of drought-related water shortages, Texas Parks and Wildlife has cut water service to Guadalupe River State Park’s three campgrounds and restrooms on most weekdays.
Posted inState Government
Democrats Gear Up for Possible Davis Gubernatorial Run
State Sen. Wendy Davis has yet to decide if she will run for governor, but some Democratic groups are already marshalling support.
Posted in
Troubled Waters
Environmental Concerns Rise as Brazos Levels Fall
Concerns over water levels in the Brazos River have sparked debate over who gets to use the river’s water, how much water should be used and how much water should be left to keep the river healthy.
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31 Days, 31 Ways (2013)
In an Accident, Drivers Have New Reasons to Stay
With new laws increasing the penalties for drivers involved in hit-and-run fatalities or those who fail to stop and render aid, advocates hope there is more incentive for drivers to stay at the scene of accidents. This story is part of our monthlong 31 Days, 31 Ways series.
Posted inState Government
Travis County Will Fund Public Integrity Unit
Travis County taxpayers will take on the cost of the state’s Public Integrity Unit, though at a much-reduced rate, after Gov. Rick Perry eliminated state funding for the office in June.
Posted in
31 Days, 31 Ways (2013)
Proxy Marriage Limits End Inmate Weddings
A new constraint on proxy marriage in Texas — a measure intended to prevent fraud — will have a secondary effect: It will end prison inmates’ ability to tie the knot. This story is part of our month-long 31 Days, 31 Ways series.
Posted inState Government
Ballot Order Set for Nine Proposed Constitutional Amendments
A lottery conducted Monday by Secretary of State John Steen has determined the ballot order of the nine proposed constitutional amendments that voters will consider Nov. 5.