- The 84th marathon ends with a major lesson. The authors points out what bills did not pass, that we might see in the 85th Session. He names constitutional carry, a ban on "sanctuary cities," and a repeal of the Dream Act.
- Moody's lauds Texas move to shore up public pensions. Moody's Investors Services rates the credit worthiness of borrowers. The worse the credit, the higher the costs of borrowing - some of you know this. Many state and local pensions funds are under funded, which creates future financial obligations for each. Credit rating agencies don't like this so the legislature passed and the governor signed HB 9 which increased employee contributions to the Employment Retirement System of Texas.
- Abbott signs $4 billion, two-year tax cuts package. See also Abbott Predicts "New Era of Job Growth" With Tax Cuts. The governor signed a series of bills related to taxes and fees, including HB 32, HB 7 and SB 1.
- Freshman teasing behind, Burrows pleased with accomplishments of session. A Lubbock paper provides an inside look at the first term of an area legislator.
- Is Texas spending $800M to create its own border patrol? Increased funding on the border was one of the governor's emergency items as the legislature began, and the legislature responded. Critics questioned the need for the increased presence by state forces given that national ad local authorities are already in place.
- Abbott Signs Bill to Limit Pollution Lawsuits. HB 1974 seems focused on efforts of Harris County to sue area polluters. Environmental regulations seems to have taken a step back this session.
