Government and Politics

Shortly after the updated false alarm ordinance took effect on Oct. 1, concerns from the public began to circulate. Lubbock police say similar ordinances are used in other Texas cities, but whether the systems have reduced the problem of false alarms for those cities remains unclear. Now, officials say the city council is "revisiting" the issue.

Tax reform, along with bail practices, dementia research and the state's water supply, are on a ballot that includes 17 proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution. Early voting starts Monday. Election Day is Nov. 4.

Fewer Texas teachers are considering leaving the classroom compared to last year, but Houston Public Media’s Michael Adkison reports the vast majority are still thinking about it. The Supreme Court will consider whether regular marijuana users can legally own guns after a request from the Justice Department. KERA’s Toluwani Osibamowo explains the court is reviving a Texas man's felony gun charge to consider the issue.

Texas officials say food stamp benefits, which go to 1.7 million children, would not be distributed in November under an extended shutdown.

With early voting just days away, counties say they're running out of time to get their complaints addressed.

Early voting for the Texas Constitutional Amendment Special Election begins today and runs through Oct. 31. Our Samantha Larned reports polling places will be at all United Supermarkets, Amigos, and Market Street locations in Lubbock, as well as the Texas Tech Student Recreation Center. Polling locations will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays, and on Sunday, Oct. 26th from noon to 6 p.m. Lubbock’s city council has paused the new false alarm ordinance, which would’ve required a permit and $50 annual fee for alarm systems in Lubbock, as well as a $50 fine after the first three false alarms. The city says council will be “revisiting” the issue at its Oct. 28 meeting.

We've broken down all 17 ballot measures – what they mean and who's behind them – that will decide everything from property taxes to disciplining judges.

As “No Kings” demonstrations unfolded across the country, Lubbock residents gathered outside Citizens Tower to call for greater transparency and accountability in government. While turnout was smaller than a similar event in June, counter-protesters showed up in greater numbers — some sharing concerns about government transparency despite political differences.

Several major health agencies in Texas are under review by the state's Sunset Advisory Commission, taking a close look at their purpose, priorities and performance. Advocacy leaders say it could lead to more nuanced conversations. The musical "Sugar Skull," which has been touring the country, is now making its way to Levelland's Wallace Theater. Our reporter Bishop Van Buren has more from the show’s lead actor and how the show embraces Día de los Muertos. Performances are scheduled Friday at 10 A.M and 1 P.M. and Saturday at 2 P.M. Tickets can be purchased at wallacetheater.com.

Several major health agencies in Texas are under review by the state's sunset commission — including the Department of State Health Services and Health and Human Services Commission. Advocates said this cycle could have a significant impact on services and access moving forward.