DOJ report on response to Uvalde shooting scathing
The U.S. Justice Department issued a scathing report late last week on the May 24, 2022, mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, the Austin American-Statesman reported.
EDITORS: This is a bulldog edition of Capital Highlights to accommodate early press deadlines due to the upcoming winter storm. It will be updated on Sunday if events dictate.
Quakes prompt officials to limit disposal wells
The Texas Railroad Commission has suspended nearly two dozen permits that allow oil and gas companies to inject saltwater into the ground, which regulators say has contributed to increased earthquakes of greater magnitude in West Texas.
Voter registration deadline for primary approaches
The deadline to register to vote in the Texas Democratic and Republican primary elections is Feb. 5. Voters on March 5 will choose their nominees for president, U.S. Senator, all 38 U.S. House members from Texas, and a number of other state and local offices, from the Texas Supreme Court to district attorneys, sheriffs and county commissioners.
By JIM PUMARLO, Consultant
A reader complains that a youth sports story was too negative. Someone questions why a particular quote wasn’t included in a report of a contentious public hearing. Your newsroom brainstorms how election coverage can be more substantive and meaningful. A reporter is rightfully embarrassed for basically writing a press verbatim that charges a local official with unethical conduct without contacting the accused for a response.
By KEN ESTEN COOKE, TPA President 2023-24
As this is written, the holiday period brings both gratitude and gifts. As we turn the calendar page on another year, it’s time to add a third “G” — grit — to face a still-challenging publishing environment.
A new year brings a chance to hit the refresh button. We’ve all done our 2024 budgets and we now set out with energy and optimism for a fresh start. We do so knowing our industry will continue to be challenged, but with a determination to do our best and serve our communities.
EDITORS — This is a bulldog edition of Capital Highlights to accommodate early press deadlines. It will be updated on Sunday as events dictate. Happy New year, everyone!
Spate of new laws effective Jan. 1
After the Texas Legislature spent much of 2023 in session, a bevy of new laws go into effect on New Year’s Day, though some have been delayed by lawsuits challenging their constitutionality.
MERRY CHRISTMAS from your friends at the Texas Press Association! This is a bulldog edition of Capital Highlights to accommodate early press deadlines. It will be updated on Sunday if events dictate. Merry Christmas, everyone!
Legal groups sue to stop new immigration law
Note to editors: The next two weeks of Capital Highlights columns will be released early to help with early holiday deadlines. The column for the week of Dec. 25 - 29 will be available online for download by 7 a.m. Friday, Dec. 22. The column for the week of Jan. 1 - 5 will be available online for download by 7 a.m. Friday, Dec. 29. Best wishes for a happy holiday season!
Property tax cuts go into effect
By BENJY HAMM
Director, Institute for Rural Journalism University of Kentucky
The Alex Murdaugh murder trial in South Carolina is a good example of how a judge can balance the free press needs of the media with the defendant’s fundamental right to a fair trial, according to Jay Bender, a veteran First Amendment attorney.
Legal challenges to amendments appear quashed