Stories by Texas Tribune fellows

Proponents say the changes would better serve special education students with widely varying needs — and help schools pay for it. Full Story 

Although the president has said he wants to “get rid of” the act, Rep. Michael McCaul and Sen. John Cornyn say it supports jobs and national security. Full Story 

The prominent right-wing pastor told state lawmakers that an anti-communist curriculum is crucial to reaffirming that America is a “Christian country.” Full Story 

The new legislative panel has been tasked to reduce the size and scope of government. But Democrats say they’re not interested in replicating Musk’s slash-and-burn approach. Full Story 

Green, a Democrat from Houston, was protesting any planned cuts in Medicaid. He said it was worth a punishment to stand up for those who depend on government benefits. Full Story 

Senate Bill 13 would create school library advisory councils largely made up of parents. It would give school boards, rather than librarians, the final say over new books. Full Story 

From Austin city council to the halls of Congress, this lawmaker has been increasingly critical of Musk, saying the billionaire receives special treatment and has conflicts of interest. Full Story 

The Texas Democrat who has a history of attention-getting acts repeatedly shouted “no mandate to cut Medicaid.” Full Story 

Commercial beekeepers in Texas have lost about two thirds of their honey bees since June last year, according to a recent survey. Full Story 

Sen. Brandon Creighton has filed bills that would ban diversity, equity and inclusion policies related to hiring and programming, while creating ways for parents to complain about violations. Full Story 

Olivia Julianna, 22, loves politics but hates the in-fighting she sees in too many Democratic campaigns in the state. Full Story 

The proposal, filed Thursday, comes well short of the increase school administrators and education advocates have been asking for. Full Story 

The 5.0 magnitude earthquake is tied for the sixth strongest in state history. Scientists have warned for years that increased fracking in West Texas is causing higher earthquake activity. Full Story 

Past efforts to allow more religion in public schools have been hamstrung by legal challenges. But those on the religious right feel empowered by recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions. Full Story 

The new bill reinforces Gov. Greg Abbott’s push for the federal government to repay the $11 billion Texas has paid for the border security operation. Full Story 

Texas law requires an armed officer at each school. Districts are asking lawmakers to pay the full yearly cost, which they say is $100 per student. Full Story 

Most of the infections have shown up in Gaines County. Texas health officials have consistently said that vaccination is the best way for people to avoid the highly contagious airborne disease. Full Story 

A San Antonio panel discussed the results of a new survey on the well-being of Texas children Thursday and proposed solutions to the state’s ongoing challenges. Full Story 

Proponents say the technology can improve cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and pharmaceutical development. Full Story 

Houston’s main electrical company backed off plans to raise rates after facing sharp criticism for its response to massive power outages after Hurricane Beryl. Full Story