Texplainer

Legislation has to go through committees before the entire House or Senate can have a look. It's a way of dividing up the work and getting things straightened out as much as possible before they get the full treatment from the Legislature. But there's a pecking order involved. And that's when the COW gets called in. Full Story 

Hey, Texplainer: Who becomes lieutenant governor if David Dewhurst resigns? Well, it's a little complicated. But the bottom line is, you don't get to decide. Full Story 

Hey, Texplainer: Why are Texas state agencies operating with a skeleton crew today? Well, it's a venerated Texas holiday, of course: Confederate Heroes' Day. How are you celebrating? Full Story 

Ever hear something about Texas politics or policy and wonder what it is? Or read something that made you think, "I have no idea what that means"? We're here to help. From questions about why Rick Perry is within his legal right to shoot a coyote while jogging to what the heck "chubbing" is, Texplainer will answer your burning questions. Today: "What's a Legislative emergency item?" Full Story