State of Texas - May 19, 2024

As some Texas schools struggle with budget deficits, House Democrats issue a plea for the Governor to call a special session dedicated to education funding. The governor said no, spotlighting a divide over his plan to push public funds to be used for private education. Plus, the challenge to Speaker Dade Phelan has turned into the most-expensive state House race in Texas history. We dig into what’s at stake in the race and how that’s fueling the record amount of campaign cash. Meanwhile, a divide over transgender health care could become the pivotal issue in a tight runoff between two Texas Democrats. We look at why the incumbent is defending supporters who liken trans care to genocide. Last session brought forward a record number of policies impacting LGBTQ+ Texans. As another legislative session looms, we look closer at how those legal restrictions are playing out, and if policies that failed last session could return for consideration.