Texas Legislature

If this summer's special sessions were a midterm exam on disaster preparation, Texas lawmakers would probably get an A. But their final grade will depend on how changes are actually implemented — and how quickly that happens.

The committees were made to honor slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk and come as university faculty have come under online scrutiny.

The Texas Legislature has formed new House and Senate committees focused on freedom of speech on Texas college campuses. The Texas Newsroom's Blaise Gainey says the move was prompted by last week's murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Here in Lubbock, a Texas Tech student was arrested at a Charlie Kirk memorial on campus Friday. Our Brad Burt reports she was charged with simple assault.

Governor Greg Abbott was joined by Lubbock's senator Charles Perry on Tuesday for the signing of two bills directed at helping rural healthcare systems. Our Brad Burt has more on the resources the bills provide for rural counties and hospitals. Meanwhile, the City of Lubbock is encouraging residents to apply for boards and committees. Our Sean Ryan reports on the open positions and how to apply. Click here for more information.

The Democrat's district covers North Austin, but he's gained nationwide support through Instagram and TikTok. Clips of Talarico condemning Republican policies have gone viral on both platforms, where he's amassed 1.2 million followers.

After recent reports of sexual assaults involving rideshare drivers near campus, Texas Tech University is warning students to be cautious. Our new student reporter Mia Shephard has reminders for those using the services. Students can use Raider Ride from 6 p.m. to 2:45 a.m. on the TechRide app and report crimes and suspicious activity to Texas Tech Police at 806-742-3931. As of September 1, hundreds of new Texas laws are now in effect. Houston Public Media’s Matt Harab reports this includes legislation to make it illegal to sell lab-procured meat.

HB 1592 creates a statewide alert system for risks to wildlife and crops.

Legislators couldn’t reach a last-minute deal to tighten regulations on consumable hemp products.

SB 412 removes an established legal defense educators could use when it comes to inappropriate material in libraries and classrooms.

These measures touch nearly every aspect of life, from education and healthcare to public safety, property rules and support for first responders. With so many changes coming at once, Texans can expect a variety of noticeable impacts on their daily lives.