DAY 14 of our month-long series on the effects of new state laws and budget cuts: Despite making deep cuts across the state’s budget, lawmakers increased funding for anti-abortion crisis pregnancy resource centers.
82nd Legislative Session
Storm Insurer Remade, But Vocal Critics Remain
A Texas Tribune analysis found that the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association mishandled claims after Hurricane Ike and paid millions of dollars to defend its fraudulent behavior and claimants’ lawyers profited from huge settlements and legal fees.
31 Days, 31 Ways: Textbook Affordability Measures Kick In
DAY 13 of our month-long series on the effects of new state laws and budget cuts: a law aimed at making college textbooks more affordable goes into effect.
31 Days, 31 Ways: Driver’s License Policy Becomes Law
DAY 12 of our month-long series on the effects of new state laws and budget cuts: applicants for driver’s licenses and IDs must furnish proof of legal status.
31 Days, 31 Ways: UT Southwestern Loses $31M in State Funding
DAY 10 of our month-long series on the effects of new state laws and budget cuts: Losing $31 million in state aid leads UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas to lay off more than 100 employees and eliminate 250 vacant positions.
31 Days, 31 Ways: Protective Orders May Cover More Texans
DAY 9 of our month-long series on the effects of new state laws and budget cuts: Lawmakers expanded protective orders to include pets and victims of teen dating violence, sexual assault and stalking.
31 Days, 31 Ways: Students Switch from TAKS to STAAR
DAY 8 of our month-long series on the effects of new state laws and budget cuts: Armed with fewer resources, educators prepare students for rigorous new STAAR test.
31 Days, 31 Ways: Budget Cuts Force Downgrade of Trauma Center
DAY 7 of our month-long series on the effects of new state laws and budget cuts: The East Texas Medical Center will downgrade its trauma center in Athens from Level III to Level IV.
31 Days, 31 Ways: Intellectual Disability Funds Avoid Worst Cuts, Mental Health Services Preserved
DAY 6 of our 31-day series on the effects of new state laws and budget cuts: Mental health funding was spared draconian cuts, but some who rely on the state for intellectual disability aid will lose services.
31 Days, 31 Ways: Budget Cuts Final Straw for Air Ambulance
DAY 5 of our month-long series on the effects of new state laws and budget cuts: The Rio Grande Valley’s longest-running helicopter ambulance will be permanently grounded this fall — and state budget cuts were the final straw.

