Supporters at a Texas Capitol rally on Monday voiced support for a variety of bills filed aimed at either stopping new toll road projects or undoing the state’s current tolling system entirely.
84th Legislative Session
Posted in
State Government
Analysis: A Sales Tax Cut, If Anybody Wants It
A little-noticed bill filed on deadline by the chairman of the House’s tax-writing committee could hold the session’s biggest tax cut, but only if the House and Senate decide to cut taxes on sales instead of property.
Posted in
Transportation
In Legislature, Toll Roads Facing Strong Opposition
Anti-toll sentiment at the Capitol is at its highest level in at least a decade as both Republicans and Democrats have proposed measures that would either tap the brakes on new toll road projects, or undo the state’s current tolling system entirely.
Posted in
State Government
Video: Who Decides What Bills Get Floor Consideration?
Mention the word “calendars” inside the Texas Capitol and some legislators – particularly in the House – are bound to give you a frightened glare. As part of an occasional series explaining the Legislature’s inner workings, we show you how the calendars are set in each chamber.
Posted in
Demographics
Roundup: Guns, Border Security Among First Floor Debates
In the Roundup: With lawmakers now more than two months into the legislative session, they are not wasting any time passing bills. The Senate has passed an open carry bill and a campus carry bill, while the House endorsed a border security measure.
Posted in
Public Education
Texas Lawmakers Consider “Parent Trigger” Law
Hoping to prompt quicker turnarounds at struggling schools, Texas lawmakers are considering a controversial policy that would let parents petition the state to make changes at their kids’ campuses.
Posted in
Health care
Supplemental Budget Would Cost $433 Million, House Members Learn
House budget writers intend to add $433 million to the current two-year budget with a supplemental bill laid out Thursday, though some lawmakers expressed concern with plans for millions in leftover funds from some state health programs.
Posted in
Transportation
Lawmakers Hope to Steer Self-Driving Car Bills to Governor’s Desk
Three lawmakers have filed bills aimed at encouraging the use of self-driving technology in Texas while allowing for some government oversight.
Posted in
Politics
Campus Carry Gets Initial OK in Texas Senate
Following a preliminary Senate vote on Wednesday, Texas is now a step closer to requiring public colleges and universities to allow concealed handguns on campus — a policy opposed by many higher education leaders.
Posted in
Transportation
Former State Rep. Lewis to Head Transportation Commission
Gov. Greg Abbott has tapped former state Rep. Tryon Lewis, R-Odessa, to be the chairman of the Texas Transportation Commission. The five-member panel oversees the Texas Department of Transportation.