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Catherine Marfin was a 2019 reporting fellow at The Texas Tribune. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in journalism and public relations. Before coming to the Tribune, she interned at the Houston Chronicle, the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and the Austin American-Statesman. She previously served as managing editor for The Daily Texan, UT-Austin's student-run campus newspaper.
Advocates say recent court rulings created loopholes in laws meant to make government transparent. Lawmakers sought to close those this year — but may have created a loophole for themselves. Full Story
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The upper chamber added those changes to a broader bill that must pass for the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission to continue functioning. The House has already signaled it would let breweries sell beer to go. Full Story
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Dallas County District Attorney John Creuzot ignited a firestorm of controversy when he announced he wouldn't prosecute some low-level crimes, including certain theft offenses. But he's among many prosecutors turning their focus away from nonviolent offenses. Full Story
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Senate Bill 18 would require universities to create disciplinary sanctions for students who interfere with free speech activities. It would still allow universities to put restrictions on the time, place and manner of such activities. Full Story
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The bill addresses many of the conditions of the state's incarcerated women. It would also require the department to offer up to 10 free feminine hygiene products to women each day. Full Story
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While critics say fantasy sports sites are hubs for illegal online gambling, others contend the games are based on skill and are therefore legitimate. Full Story
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Workers in the William P. Hobby Building in downtown Austin have filed hundreds of reports of rats, roaches and other pests in recent years. Now, the state may sell the building. Full Story
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You can't use credit to buy beer from wholesalers, but you can own more liquor stores if you do business with family. Full Story
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Michael Center is accused of accepting a $100,000 bribe to help a student pose as a tennis recruit in order to get into school. Full Story
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The changes to the new rating system — which gives districts a letter grade in three categories: student achievement, school progress and closing the gaps — were finalized during the 2017 legislative session. Full Story
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