Texas

Energy and Environment Reporting for Texas

Background

Where politics, government and energy intersect.

Latest Posts

No Soup For You! Lawmaker Wants to Take Shark Fin Off the Menu

Update: On March 5, the Senate version of the shark fin bill got a hearing at the Capitol. Read about that here.  Early next month, shark fins will bring a rare mix of folks together at the Texas Capitol. That’s when Rep. Eddie Lucio, D-Harlingen, Hollywood star (and “Friday Night Lights” alum) Kyle Chandler, his daughter and the […]

How New Legislation Could Benefit Texas Deer Breeders

Deer breeding as a commercial enterprise is expanding in Texas, and breeders say it’s time to firm up the permitting process. Sen. Tommy Williams, R-Woodlands, filed a bill this month, SB 820, that could overhaul some permitting for breeders. Gilbert Adams, President of the Texas Deer Association, said as breeding businesses grow across the state, […]

Lawmakers Propose Fixes For Roads Damaged By Drilling

This legislative session lawmakers are considering various ways to manage the oil and gas drilling boom, from reducing tax breaks to encouraging less water use. And at a conversation with several lawmakers hosted by StateImpact Texas Tuesday night, there was bipartisan agreement that something needs to be done on one issue in particular. Fracking can […]

Selling Texas as Oil Boom States Vie for Business

In a radio ad, Texas Governor Rick Perry disses California as a place where it’s “next to impossible” to build a business. “Come check out Texas,” Perry implores his listeners. Some states are taking the governor up on his offer: They’re coming to Texas, but they’re not looking to bring business to the state. Rather, […]

With Water in the Spotlight, Texas Agriculture Stakes Its Claim

When the 2013 Texas Ag Water Forum met today, it was no coincidence it met just a few blocks from the State Capitol. As lawmakers grapple with how to fund the State Water Plan, agricultural groups worry that their water needs might be sidelined this legislative session. There is an emerging consensus among legislators that […]

Fresh Legislation Would Protect Community Gardens From Lawsuits

A good garden is much about keeping the right things in as it is keeping the wrong things out. In: rich soil, tended rows and the right amounts of sunlight and water. Out: weeds, deer, Bunnicula. And for one state lawmaker, add to that list of noxious intruders something unexpected: lawsuits. A bill recently introduced […]

Drink Up: New Bill Would Give You Cash Back For Empties

Finishing a six-pack could soon become a more profitable endeavor. A bill introduced to the House, HB 1473 by Rep. Eddie Rodriguez, D-Austin, HB-calls for cash incentives for recycling many beverage containers. State Senator Rodney Ellis has also introduced the same bill into the senate. The bill would require many beverage containers to be refundable, […]

Texas Lawmakers Push For Lactose Tolerance

If a group of Texas lawmakers gets their way, buying and selling raw milk in the Lone Star Stare could become easier to digest. A bill introduced by Rep. Dan Flynn, R-Canton, would allow raw milk producers to sell in farmers markets or fairs. The bill also permits the delivery of raw milk directly to […]

About StateImpact

StateImpact seeks to inform and engage local communities with broadcast and online news focused on how state government decisions affect your lives.
Learn More »

Economy
Education