Record sea temps could spur more hurricanes

Forecasters for the National Weather Service are anticipating a more active hurricane season this year because of record-warm ocean surface temperatures, the Texas Tribune reported.

By KEN ESTEN COOKE, TPA President 2023-24

Two important developments surfaced recently which are huge for our newspaper industry.

Before we get to those, let’s celebrate our recent wins in the Texas Legislature. We had some minor setbacks, but thanks to the diligence of the TPA staff and our members who testified, we beat back a lot of bad legislation. A list of wins and losses can be found in the July Texas Press Messenger or online at www.texaspress.com/2023-session-one-toughest-most-successful.

Child care centers closing across state

An unprecedented number of child care centers are expected to close across the state as pandemic relief funding ends, the Texas Standard reported. A survey conducted by the Texas Association for the Education of Young Children of about 1,600 child care programs indicated 44% were likely to close their doors without additional funding. Federal pandemic relief funds ended for most centers in June.

Wildfire chances increasing across state

The risk for wildfires across the state has risen along with the hot and dry conditions, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service.

“With the recent uptick in wildfire activity, Texas A&M Forest Service has mobilized additional personnel and equipment to assist with response,” said Wes Moorehead, Texas A&M Forest Service fire chief. “State and local firefighters are prepared to respond quickly but we need Texans to be careful and prevent wildfire ignitions while conditions remain hot and dry.”

Patrick issues gag order ahead of trial

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick last week issued a sweeping gag order ahead of the impeachment trial of suspended Attorney General Ken Paxton, the Houston Chronicle reported, saying “out-of-court statements” by both sides threaten to jeopardize the trial.

The trial is set to begin Sept. 5.

Tax-relief plan headed to governor

Proponents are calling it the “biggest property tax cut in Texas history.” Both chambers of the Texas Legislature passed an $18 billion package during the second special session, the Austin American-Statesman reported.

House Democrats’ tax plan would help renters

Texas House Democrats unveiled a $20.9 billion plan for property tax relief that drops tax rates, increases the homestead exemption, gives annual rebates to renters, and includes pay raises for teachers, the Austin American-Statesman reported.

EDITORS: This is an early bulldog version of Capital Highlights for papers with early holiday deadlines. An updated version will be sent Sunday as events dictate.

Senate passes tax bill as second special session begins

Conservation urged as searing heat wave sweeps state

Texas’ power grid reported record electricity use early last week. Both the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas are urging residents and businesses to voluntarily reduce electricity use as temperatures soar above100 degrees over much of the state. So far the grid, which administers 90% of the state’s power load, has been able to keep up with demand.

Abbott vetoes bills; feud with Patrick grows