The Evening Brief: July 8, 2013

New in The Texas Tribune

•    Rick Perry Won't Run for Re-election: "Gov. Rick Perry announced Monday that he will not run for re-election next year, creating the first open race for Texas governor since 1990 and making Attorney General Greg Abbott the instant favorite to replace him. 'I remain excited about the future and the challenges ahead, but the time has come to pass on the mantle of leadership,' Perry said. 'Today I am announcing I will not seek re-election as governor of Texas. I will spend the next 18 months working to create more jobs, opportunity and innovation. I will actively lead this great state.'"

•    Texas Senators Reopen Debate on Abortion Regulations: "For many Texas senators, Monday’s Health and Human Services Committee hearing was the first opportunity to discuss proposed abortion legislation since Sen. Wendy Davis’ much-publicized filibuster in the first special session. As committee members started the hearing by debating points of a measure that would tighten regulations on abortion procedures, providers and facilities, they also prepared to hear testimony late into the night — and possibly into the early morning — from as many as 2,000 witnesses."

•    Transportation Funding Likely to Be Big Issue in 2015: "When this year’s first special session dramatically concluded last month in the Texas Senate with an energized crowd shouting to block passage of a controversial abortion bill, proponents of the measure were not the only ones upset. Among the other bills that died in the intense parliamentary battle was legislation to increase financing for the cash-strapped Texas Department of Transportation."

•    Galveston County Public Water Systems Face Restrictions: "Galveston County could face water shortages in the next few months as its public water systems begin to feel the stress of the summer heat, though the most likely cuts will be to outdoor watering."

Culled

•    Texas House sets abortion debate (Politico): "The Lone Star State’s abortion debate comes roaring back to life this week as the Texas statehouse takes up a controversial abortion bill on Tuesday. According to a newly released schedule from the Texas House of Representatives, House Bill 2 — the abortion measure in question — is the only order of business on the calendar for Tuesday, as the Legislature reconvenes. Observers can expect a 'long House floor debate tomorrow,' with a 'vote as soon as they finish,' a senior Republican legislative aide told POLITICO on Monday."

•    Texas Rep. Stefani Carter announces bid for Railroad Commissioner (The Dallas Morning News): "Just minutes ago Rep. Stefani Carter announced a campaign for Texas railroad commissioner. If elected in 2014, the Dallas Republican will become the first black woman elected to the commission. Carter has served two terms in the Texas House, representing North Dallas."