Texas’ larger cities would face financial penalties for cutting police budgets under bill approved by House
Previously, the Senate approved a bill that would ask for an election if cities decide to reduce law enforcement budgets. Full Story
Juan Pablo Garnham covered urban affairs for the Tribune in 2019-21, focusing on the main challenges of the state’s largest metro areas — Houston, Austin, San Antonio, El Paso and Dallas-Fort Worth, where he was based. He previously worked as senior producer for the podcast In The Thick, editor of CityLab Latino and city hall reporter for El Diario in New York. He has also taught at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY. He is from Santiago, Chile, and the Texas flag constantly reminds him of his home country.
Previously, the Senate approved a bill that would ask for an election if cities decide to reduce law enforcement budgets. Full Story
While city leaders are analyzing possible housing options for people experiencing homelessness, advocates warn against using aggressive tactics to enforce the ban. Full Story
The resolution was passed in a 99-46 vote. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention still suggest that people wear masks in public places, especially indoors. Full Story
If the legislation is approved and signed by the governor, cities could lose state grant money for failing to enforce a new statewide encampment ban. Full Story
Local health officials reported shorter lines and less demand at vaccination sites, and warned that there's still much work to be done to make Texans safe from the virus. Full Story
Despite loud opposition from Democrats who said the legislation overstepped local governments, Senate Bill 23 passed with broad bipartisan support. Full Story
Although the CDC renewed its order halting evictions until the end of June, the Texas Supreme Court let state guidelines expire. Housing advocates believe more landlords will start turning out tenants. Full Story
Grassroots organizers and county employees are organizing registration events in some of the underserved neighborhoods in the city. But they still worry it won't be enough. Full Story
The governor asked the federal government to let Texas law enforcement interview migrant children in FEMA shelters to investigate human trafficking. Full Story
Housing advocates say they appreciate the measure, but want to see more legislative action to overcome racial inequalities in the housing market. Full Story