Daily Archives: April 30, 2009

Bait and switch on Voter ID

So that “compromise” voter ID legislation? It’s not something its author is going to go to the mat for. [Rep. Todd] Smith said he is prepared to fight for his plan but added that if the choice is between an … Continue reading Continue reading

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First they came for the science books…

The State Board of Education strikes again. The Texas State Board of Education is set to appoint a social studies curriculum “expert” panel that includes absurdly unqualified ideologues who are hostile to public education and argue that laws and public … Continue reading Continue reading

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And here we have the “compromise” voter ID legislation

The AusChron has the scoop. Here are the differences between Todd Smith’s “compromise” voter ID bill and the Senate-passed SB362. [Differences include:] provisions for voter education on the new ID requirements training for poll workers a report to the Lege … Continue reading Continue reading

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Statewide smoking ban stalled

It may be a bit premature to write its obituary, but not by much. Sen. Jane Nelson said she is in no rush to push a proposed statewide smoking ban through her Senate Health and Human Services Committee on Tuesday. … Continue reading Continue reading

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Poker bill in trouble?

Well, that would suck. Rep. Jose Menendez’ bill to legalize poker in Texas is looking less than likely. Menendez’ bill made it out of the House committee that oversees gambling issues. But he said unless he “can ratchet it back” … Continue reading Continue reading

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“Groundless” campaign finance complaints

I’m a bit wary of this. The House tentatively approved Rep. Will Hartnett’s proposal to hold people liable who file false and “groundless” complaints with the Texas Ethics Commission just before an election. Today’s 84-54 second-reading vote gave a tentative … Continue reading Continue reading

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Separating the Permanent School Fund from the SBOE

The State Board of Education continues to be as popular as swine flu in the Lege. Thanks to Rep. Donna Howard’s HJR 77, which passed the House today, Texas taxpayers get to vote on who will manage the Permanent School … Continue reading Continue reading

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