Texas State News and Info Tracker

Texas is at the center of notable developments across politics, business, community initiatives, and environmental concerns. Politically, the Texas House approved a $337 billion two-year budget that prioritizes education funding, teacher pay, and property tax cuts. This proposal, which aligns with the Senate’s budget but includes controversial amendments like eliminating funding for the state’s lottery and specific economic programs, will now be reconciled in committee discussions. Another key legislative action involves creating a sickle cell registry, a bipartisan initiative aimed at improving healthcare outcomes. Meanwhile, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced his challenge to Senator John Cornyn for his U.S...

Texas continues to be a focal point of significant political, economic, and environmental developments. In recent legislative actions, the Texas House approved a $337 billion two-year budget focusing heavily on education, public safety, and teacher pay. Notable amendments included eliminating funding for the Lottery Commission and the Governor's Office’s tourism programs, which spurred debate among lawmakers. This budget, while advancing key priorities, leaves significant general revenue unspent, sparking discussions about future allocations. Additionally, the state legislature is debating a school voucher initiative, despite public opposition and concerns about its impact on public school funding. Meanwhile, bipartisan support is propelling a bi...

Texas is grappling with a busy political, economic, and environmental landscape recently marked by significant developments. The Texas Legislature approved a $337 billion biennial state budget, emphasizing teacher pay raises, property tax reductions, and border security. However, political tensions have emerged over proposals such as expanded school voucher funding, which was ultimately excluded, reflecting persistent public resistance to this measure in recent polls. A supplemental $12 billion budget was also passed, addressing water infrastructure, wildfire response, and public pensions. Meanwhile, discussions continue on forming a Homeland Security Division within the Department of Public Safety to tackle immigration and crime challenges.

...

Texas has seen several significant developments recently, spanning politics, business, community news, and environmental challenges. Among the top headlines is the ongoing measles outbreak, which has spread to multiple counties, claiming two lives already. The Texas Department of State Health Services has expanded monitoring efforts to control the spread, alongside launching a naloxone locator map to combat opioid overdoses as part of the “One Pill Kills” campaign. Additionally, a missing radiographic camera in Loving County has prompted safety advisories due to its radioactive materials.

In the state legislature, the Texas House approved a $337 billion two-year budget after extensive deba...

In Texas, the state legislature made significant progress this week, approving a $337 billion two-year budget following intense debate over amendments. Key allocations include substantial funding for teacher pay, border security, and property tax reductions. Notable amendments included a proposal to eliminate funding for the Texas Lottery Commission and governor's economic development office, though these changes remain tentative and subject to negotiations between the House and Senate. Supplementary budget measures were also passed, including $2.5 billion earmarked for addressing the state’s water crisis and $924 million for wildfire and natural disaster response. The session highlighted divisive topics such as school vouchers, which ma...

Texas is abuzz with activity as lawmakers, businesses, and communities navigate a transformative period. The Texas House recently approved a $337 billion two-year budget, signaling substantial allocations toward teacher pay, border security, and property tax reductions. However, debates over amendments exposed sharp political divisions, with issues like school vouchers and Medicaid funding sparking contention. The session highlighted the increasing shift of Texans toward affordability and education as key legislative priorities, though partisanship continues to frame policy discussions. Notably, an amendment redirecting $70 million from Medicaid to anti-abortion initiatives passed amid criticism, revealing continued ideological battles in the legislature.

On the...

Texas has remained a focal point of significant political, economic, and environmental developments this week. On Friday, the Texas House approved a $337 billion biennial budget after a grueling 13-hour session. The budget prioritizes teacher pay increases, property tax cuts, and border security while leaving approximately $40 billion in general revenue unallocated for future use. Among approved measures, a study to investigate clergy involved in child abuse cases gained bipartisan support. However, contentious decisions included reallocating $70 million from Medicaid to the Thriving Texas Families program, a move criticized by Democrats for diverting essential health care funds[1][6].

As debates continue, public...

The Texas House of Representatives has approved a $337 billion two-year budget, allocating substantial funds toward public education, property tax cuts, and border security. After lengthy debates and nearly 400 proposed amendments, the budget includes provisions for teacher raises and water infrastructure projects while reallocating funding from state Medicaid to anti-abortion initiatives under the controversial Thriving Texas Families program. Key priorities, including property tax reductions and school vouchers, reflect ongoing partisan divides. The Senate and House will now reconcile their versions in private negotiations before sending a final bill to the governor's desk. Additionally, a supplemental budget was passed to address wildfire...

Texas has seen a week of notable developments across various fronts. Among key public health concerns, West Texas is grappling with a significant measles outbreak, with over 500 cases reported this week, primarily affecting unvaccinated individuals. The state's health infrastructure is under pressure to contain the crisis, which has impacted several communities. Meanwhile, Little Elm police officers were lauded for rescuing children from a house fire, highlighting ongoing public safety efforts.

In government and policy news, the Texas Legislature has reached the halfway mark of its 140-day session. However, progress remains uneven, with the Senate passing over 200 bills compared...

Texas is navigating a dynamic array of developments across governance, business, community, and environmental fronts this week. Governor Greg Abbott proclaimed April 2025 as Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, reaffirming the state's commitment to supporting survivors and prosecuting offenders. This initiative underscores Texas’ focus on fostering safety and resiliency, with advocacy groups applauding state efforts to expand resources for those affected by sexual violence. Meanwhile, the Texas legislature is embroiled in debates over pivotal issues such as school vouchers, firearm regulations, and occupational licensing reforms. Recent polls reveal a growing preference for moderate political views, with topics like education funding an...

As Texas enters the spring of 2025, the state faces a mix of economic optimism and environmental challenges. The Texas Senate recently approved a $336 billion two-year budget, allocating funds for teacher salaries, school vouchers, and property tax relief[1]. This budget, which passed unanimously, also includes $6.5 billion for border security operations, despite earlier indications from state leadership that some of these funds might be reallocated[1].

Governor Greg Abbott's recent State of the State address highlighted Texas' economic strength, citing its position as the top state for new jobs and economic development[15]. Abbott emphasized the need for at least $10 billion in...

As Texas enters the spring of 2025, the state faces a mix of challenges and opportunities. Governor Greg Abbott recently released a five-year economic development strategic plan aimed at cementing Texas as a global economic powerhouse, focusing on target industries and job creation across regions[3]. Meanwhile, the 89th Texas Legislative Session is in full swing, with lawmakers debating key issues such as school vouchers, border security, and property tax relief[2].

In recent news, a Texas startup made history with the first private, successful soft-landing on the moon[6]. This achievement highlights the state's growing presence in the aerospace industry and...

Texas continues to grapple with a range of challenges and opportunities as it moves through 2025. The state legislature recently passed a controversial education savings account bill, expanding school choice options but drawing criticism from public education advocates[2]. Governor Greg Abbott signed a 5-year economic development plan aimed at cementing Texas as a "global economic powerhouse," focusing on target industries like semiconductors and renewable energy[3].

On the economic front, Texas is experiencing moderate growth, with employment expanding at a 1.6% rate, slightly below 2024 levels[8]. The energy sector remains a bright spot, benefiting from elevated oil prices due to ongoing geopolitical...

Texas continues to face a range of challenges and opportunities as it moves through 2025. Governor Abbott recently delivered his State of the State address, highlighting Texas' strong economy and outlining priorities like property tax relief and border security[16]. The governor also released a five-year economic development strategic plan aimed at cementing Texas as a global economic powerhouse[7].

In the legislature, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick announced a second round of priority bills, including measures on teacher pay, lottery reform, and curbing nuclear verdicts[11]. The Senate has already passed 10 of Patrick's top 40 priority bills. Meanwhile, lawmakers are considering bills that...

Texas continues to grapple with a range of issues as it enters spring 2025. The state legislature is in session, with property tax relief emerging as a top priority. Governor Greg Abbott has called for at least $10 billion in new property tax cuts and restrictions on local authorities' ability to raise taxes without voter approval. Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick announced a second round of priority bills, including measures to increase teacher pay and establish a "Teacher Bill of Rights" (Office of the Lieutenant Governor).

On the economic front, Texas businesses reported rising service sector revenue and a resumption...

Texas continues to experience economic growth and population expansion, though challenges remain. The state legislature is debating several high-profile bills, including a measure that would require sheriffs in large counties to partner with federal immigration authorities[1]. This has drawn both support and criticism from law enforcement and advocacy groups. Meanwhile, Governor Greg Abbott recently unveiled a five-year economic development plan aimed at cementing Texas as a "global economic powerhouse"[8].

On the business front, Texas-based Tesla is facing headwinds, with reports of declining sales and a falling stock price[15]. However, the broader Texas economy remains robust. The Dallas Federal...

Texas News Summary - March 14, 2025

Governor Greg Abbott delivered his State of the State address, outlining key priorities for Texas including property tax relief, affordable housing initiatives, and continued economic growth[16]. The governor proposed at least $10 billion in new property tax cuts and called for restrictions on local authorities' ability to raise property taxes without voter approval.

In the Texas Legislature, a marathon 22-hour hearing on House Bill 3, which would establish an education savings account program, drew hundreds of supporters and opponents[10]. The bill, left pending in committee, is part of a broader debate on school...

Texas continues to grapple with economic challenges and political debates as the state moves through 2025. Governor Greg Abbott recently delivered his State of the State address, emphasizing property tax relief, border security, and economic development as key priorities for the 89th Legislative Session. The governor called for at least $10 billion in new property tax cuts and proposed measures to limit local authorities' ability to raise taxes without voter approval[10].

In economic news, the Texas economy is expected to outpace national growth in 2025, though at a more moderate rate than in previous years. The Comerica Bank economic outlook projects...

Texas continues to face significant challenges and opportunities as it moves through 2025. Recent severe weather has battered parts of the state, with powerful winds up to 100 mph tearing through the Texas Panhandle, flipping tractor-trailers and causing widespread damage[10]. The National Weather Service warned of dangerous conditions, including blowing dust and low visibility. This follows a broader trend of extreme weather, with forecasts predicting warmer and drier conditions for much of Texas through spring, raising concerns about drought and wildfire risks[3][18].

On the political front, Governor Greg Abbott delivered his 2025 State of the State address, highlighting Texas' economic strengths...

Texas continues to experience economic growth and legislative activity as the 89th Legislature's regular session progresses. Governor Greg Abbott recently delivered his 2025 State of the State address, emphasizing property tax relief, border security, and economic development as key priorities. The governor called for at least $10 billion in new property tax relief and proposed a ban on local taxing authorities raising property taxes without two-thirds voter approval.

In economic news, the Texas economy is showing signs of continued expansion, albeit at a more moderate pace compared to 2024. Comerica Bank's 2025 Texas State Economic Outlook projects that the state's growth will...

Texas continues to experience economic growth and population expansion, though challenges remain. The state's economy grew by 3.9% in 2024, outpacing the national average, with job growth expected to moderate slightly in 2025 according to Comerica Bank's economic outlook[12]. Governor Greg Abbott recently released a five-year economic development plan aimed at cementing Texas as a "global economic powerhouse"[7].

In the political arena, the 89th Texas Legislature is in session, with Republicans controlling both chambers. Property tax relief has emerged as a key priority, with Governor Abbott calling for at least $10 billion in new property tax cuts[16]. The legislature is also considering...

Texas continues to grapple with economic, political, and environmental challenges as it enters the spring of 2025. Governor Greg Abbott recently unveiled a five-year economic development plan aimed at cementing Texas as a "global economic powerhouse" [8]. The plan identifies key industries expected to drive growth and job creation, outlines strategies to boost competitiveness, and provides data-driven recommendations for economic development decisions across the state.

In Austin, the 89th Texas Legislature is in full swing, with property tax relief emerging as a top priority. Governor Abbott has called for at least $10 billion in new property tax cuts and proposed banning...

Texas continues to experience economic growth and development, though recent severe weather has posed challenges across the state. Governor Greg Abbott recently released a five-year economic development strategic plan aimed at cementing Texas as a "global economic powerhouse" by targeting key industries and enhancing competitiveness[8]. The plan comes as Texas maintains its position as a national leader in job creation and population growth.

In Austin, the 89th Texas Legislature kicked off its new session in January, with lawmakers facing an ambitious agenda over the 140-day period[12]. Key issues include potential restrictions on hemp-derived cannabis products, property tax reform...

Texas continues to see economic growth and population expansion in 2025, though at a more moderate pace than previous years. Governor Greg Abbott recently delivered his State of the State address, outlining priorities for the 89th legislative session including school choice initiatives, border security measures, and property tax relief. The Texas Senate has already moved quickly on an education savings account bill, with Lt. Governor Dan Patrick expressing confidence it will pass soon.

On the economic front, the Dallas Federal Reserve reports that Texas businesses are optimistic about growth prospects, citing expectations of a more favorable regulatory and tax...

Texas continues to experience economic growth and political developments as it enters the spring of 2025. The state's economy is projected to grow at a similar rate to 2024, according to the Dallas Federal Reserve, despite some softening in the employment forecast[2]. With a $24 billion budget surplus, the Texas legislature faces important decisions on spending priorities during the 89th Legislature[1].

Governor Greg Abbott remains the most popular political figure in the state, with a 56% favorability rating[1]. He recently released a five-year statewide economic development strategic plan aimed at cementing Texas as a global economic powerhouse[7]. The plan identifies target industry...

Texas continues to face significant challenges and opportunities as it moves through 2025. Governor Greg Abbott recently delivered his State of the State address, outlining his priorities for the ongoing legislative session[1]. Key focus areas include passing a school voucher program, enhancing border security measures, and reducing property taxes. The governor's speech also highlighted Texas' strong economic position and its role as a "blueprint for America's future" under the Trump administration.

On the economic front, experts predict Texas' economy will continue growing in 2025 at a rate similar to 2024[2]. While job growth has softened slightly, particularly for small and mid-sized...

Texas is experiencing a period of economic growth and political activity as the state legislature reconvenes for its 140-day session in 2025. The Republican-led Legislature is set to address key challenges, including water supply, power grid improvements, healthcare and public school workforce shortages, and property tax reductions[1]. Governor Greg Abbott continues to push for education savings accounts, a voucher-like policy allowing families to use state funds for private school tuition[1][5].

The Texas economy shows signs of resilience, with the Dallas Fed reporting rising service sector revenue and resumed production growth in manufacturing after weakness in 2023 and much of 2024[2]. However...

Texas continues to face significant challenges and opportunities as it enters 2025. The state is grappling with a measles outbreak that has claimed the life of an unvaccinated child, the first such death in the U.S. since 2015. Health officials report 146 cases, highlighting the importance of vaccination efforts[1]. In legislative news, the Texas Senate has unanimously approved a bill banning online lottery courier services, aiming to enforce in-person ticket purchases[1]. The Senate has also passed a bill to increase teacher salaries statewide, providing yearly raises for educators with three or more years of experience[1].

Immigration remains a contentious issue...

Texas continues to experience economic growth and political developments as it enters 2025. Governor Greg Abbott recently proclaimed March 2025 as Women's History Month, honoring the contributions of women to Texas society[1]. The governor is set to deliver his State of the State address on Sunday, where he will outline his priorities for the ongoing legislative session, including potential focus on school vouchers, border security, and property tax reduction[6].

In economic news, Texas businesses reported rising service sector revenue and resumed production growth in manufacturing after weakness in 2023 and much of 2024. However, job growth slowed at the end of 2024, with...

Texas continues to grapple with a range of issues as it enters 2025. Protests against Project 2025, a conservative policy initiative, erupted at the Texas State Capitol, drawing hundreds of demonstrators[1]. Meanwhile, the state legislature faces crucial decisions on how to allocate a $24 billion budget surplus, with educational savings accounts dominating discussions[2].

The Texas economy is showing resilience, with experts predicting growth in 2025 to match that of 2024. However, concerns persist about job growth, particularly for small and mid-sized businesses struggling to attract workers[3]. The Dallas Federal Reserve's latest economic outlook highlights potential challenges, including the impact of higher tariffs and...

Texas continues to face challenges as Governor Greg Abbott renews the wildfire disaster proclamation for February 2025, citing persistent elevated fire weather conditions in several counties[1]. This comes as the state grapples with ongoing drought issues, prompting the governor to amend and renew a drought disaster proclamation for numerous counties across Texas[10].

In legislative news, the 89th Texas Legislature is in session with a substantial $24 billion budget surplus. Lawmakers are prioritizing issues such as Educational Savings Accounts, immigration, gambling, marijuana, abortion, and election reform. The Hobby School of Public Affairs at the University of Houston conducted a survey to...

Texas is experiencing a mix of significant developments across various sectors. The state's booming population is projected to overtake California by 2045, according to a Realtor.com report, but housing affordability remains a major concern with 90% of Texans calling it a problem[1].

In government and politics, Governor Greg Abbott has outlined his vision for Texas in his State of the State address, emphasizing priorities such as school vouchers, border security, and property tax reductions. The Texas Senate has already moved forward with a voucher plan, Senate Bill 2, which could be voted on soon[2].

On the economic front...

Texas is experiencing a mix of economic growth and challenges as the state legislature tackles key issues. A new Realtor.com report projects that Texas will overtake California as the most populous state by 2045, but housing affordability remains a major concern, with 90% of Texans calling it a problem[1].

In government and politics, the Texas Legislature is in session, focusing on conservative priorities such as education savings accounts, a voucher-like policy that would give families direct access to state funds for private school tuition and other education-related expenses[2]. The session follows an election cycle that saw Republicans maintain firm...

In Texas, several key developments have been unfolding across various sectors. The state legislature has been actively addressing education-related bills, with the Texas Senate fast-tracking a teacher pay raise after approving a school voucher bill. This move aligns with Governor Greg Abbott's priorities outlined in his State of the State address, where he emphasized the need for both higher teacher pay and school vouchers[1][2].

On the economic front, experts predict that Texas' economy will grow in 2025 at a similar rate to 2024, despite concerns about job growth and potential tariffs, particularly those affecting trade with Mexico, the state's largest...

Texas is poised for significant developments across various sectors, from government and politics to business and economy, community news, and environmental updates.

Governor Greg Abbott recently delivered his State of the State address, outlining seven emergency items for the Texas Legislature to prioritize. These include subsidizing private school tuition, finding new sources of water, cutting property taxes, limiting bail for violent offenses, and enhancing the state’s electric grid, school safety, and cybersecurity systems[5]. Notably, Abbott’s push for a school voucher-like bill has gained momentum, with the Texas Senate already moving forward on Senate Bill 2, which could be v...

In Texas, several key developments are shaping the state's political, economic, and environmental landscape. The Texas Senate has fast-tracked a teacher pay raise bill following the approval of a school voucher bill, aligning with Governor Greg Abbott's education priorities[1][2]. This move aims to address public school workforce shortages and improve teacher compensation.

On the economic front, Texas businesses are optimistic despite price pressures and uncertainty. The Dallas Fed’s Texas Business Outlook Surveys indicate rising service sector revenue and a resumption of production growth in the manufacturing sector after a period of weakness in 2023 and 2024[3]. However, job growth sl...

In Texas, several key developments have been unfolding across various sectors. The state legislature has been actively addressing education and infrastructure concerns. Notably, the Texas Senate has fast-tracked a teacher pay raise bill following the approval of a school voucher bill, aligning with Governor Greg Abbott's priorities outlined in his State of the State address[1][2].

On the education front, House Speaker Dustin Burrows announced the filing of House Bill 3, which aims to establish a voucher-like education savings account program, a top priority for Governor Abbott and supported by figures like Donald Trump and Elon Musk[5].

In...

In Texas, the 2025 legislative session is underway, with lawmakers tackling a variety of key issues. The Republican-led Legislature is poised to pass conservative priorities, including education savings accounts, a voucher-like policy championed by Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick[1]. The session follows an election cycle that saw Republicans maintain control of both legislative chambers, but with a deeply fractured party and a looming leadership battle in the Texas House.

Economically, Texas is expected to grow at the same rate as 2024, despite concerns about job growth, especially for small and mid-sized businesses[2]. The Dallas Federal Reserve notes...

Texas is bracing for a potentially historic winter storm, with Governor Greg Abbott emphasizing the importance of readiness and mobilizing state resources to ensure safety and preparedness[5]. Meanwhile, the Texas Legislature has reconvened for its 140-day session, focusing on key challenges such as shoring up the state's water supply and power grid, addressing healthcare and public school workforce shortages, and continuing to rein in property taxes[1].

The Republican-led Legislature is poised to pass an array of conservative priorities, including education savings accounts, a voucher-like policy championed by Governor Abbott and Lt. Governor Dan Patrick. The session also comes...

In Texas, recent developments have been shaping the state's political, economic, and environmental landscape. Governor Greg Abbott has outlined his emergency items for the 2025 legislative session, emphasizing education savings accounts and border security. The Senate has already moved quickly on a voucher plan, passing Senate Bill 2 out of committee, which could be voted through as early as next week[2].

On the economic front, experts predict that Texas will continue to grow at the same pace as last year, despite concerns about job growth and potential tariffs on trade with Mexico, the state's largest trading partner[3]. The Dallas Federal...