Some businesses are already seeing customers return. But the numbers of people seeking unemployment aid surged in recent weeks to levels not seen since July. Many of them still face problems getting through to the Texas Workforce Commission.
Megan Menchaca
Megan Menchaca was a reporting fellow at The Texas Tribune in 2021 after two semesters as an engagement fellow. A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, Megan previously worked as an audience engagement intern at The Dallas Morning News, a digital intern at the Austin American-Statesman and a news intern at the Austin Chronicle. She was also the managing editor and news editor at The Daily Texan.
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Coronavirus in Texas
Texas’ decentralized, internet-reliant system for vaccine appointments leaves many eligible people unable to access a shot
Texans face challenges trying to book a vaccine appointment through a time-consuming process that inherently favors people who have easy access to internet and transportation. The situation is contributing to inequitable access for many people in the state.
Posted in
Coronavirus in Texas
Some Texas colleges keep spring break while others adapt due to pandemic concerns
Some schools are letting students have a full week off. Others are spreading out free days to discourage travel. And some plan on-campus alternatives to leaving for vacation.
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Coronavirus in Texas
“It’s putting us in the firing line”: Some small-business owners worry about Gov. Greg Abbott lifting coronavirus restrictions
Abbott’s order will leave it to business owners to decide whether to require customers wear masks inside their establishments. Some say they will keep coronavirus restrictions in place, but some business owners worry those decisions could anger potential customers.
Posted in
Winter Storm 2021
How to help and get help in Texas as the winter storm causes power outages
Local organizations are providing warming shelters and resources, while nonprofits are asking for donations and volunteers.
Posted in
Texas Legislature 2021
Democratic lawmakers hope to enact statewide nondiscrimination law and ban conversion therapy for LGBTQ Texans
As the Biden administration works to expand federal nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ people, Texas advocates and lawmakers are pushing for similar legislation here.
Posted in
Winter Storm 2021
Texas’ grid operator warns rolling blackouts are possible as winter storm escalates demand for electricity
Temporary power outages, which would last around 10 to 45 minutes, are a last resort, officials say. The peak demand for power is expected to exceed the all-time record.
Posted in
Winter Storm 2021
Massive winter storm prompts disaster declaration and could stress Texas’ electric grid
Gov. Greg Abbott urged Texans to stay alert as the National Weather Service issued winter storm warnings or watches for most of the state. Experts fear that electricity demand during the frigid temperatures could cause power outages.
Posted in
Coronavirus in Texas
Gov. Greg Abbott plans to relax business restrictions soon if COVID-19 numbers continue to drop from record highs
While COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are trending downward, the numbers are higher than when Abbott initially announced restrictions on businesses.
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Coronavirus in Texas
Texas cities face difficulties counting their unsheltered homeless population — at a time when their numbers matter most
Despite changes to the regular count of people experiencing homelessness, support organizations are hoping they’ll still be able to capture a clear picture of who is unhoused in Texas as the pandemic continues.