Stay updated with breaking news from Katie Bug. Get real-time updates on events, politics, business, and more. Visit us for reliable news and exclusive interviews.
Fear of riots and the pandemic dominated the Legislature’s opening week, with some lawmakers venting their frustration with mask regulations, and others going into quarantine.
The 87th session of the Texas Legislature convened Tuesday in Austin with pandemic-muted ceremonies and a strong security presence after last week's violent riot at the U.S. Capitol. Pomp gave way to brevity as lawmakers, most behind face masks, took their oaths of office and breezed through the largely ceremonial opening day in less than 90 minutes, leaving 139 days to go in the session. The pandemic was not far from their minds. In the only action of substance Tuesday, Rep. Dade Phelan, a Beaumont Republican, was elected speaker of the House, as expected, and he recalled that 366 days ear...