This Week in Texas: Wednesday, May 17, 2017

Posted May 17, 2017 in The Mignon Memo

Passing notes.On Monday, House Speaker Joe Straus sent a letter to Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, indicating that he thinks the state legislature can avoid a special session if the House and Senate can pass two bills: a state budget and legislation that would impact agencies slated for sunset review. Heavy negotiations between the leaders’ offices continue. To read more…

Budget may tap rainy day fund.On Monday, House Appropriations Chairman John Zerwas (R-Richmond) said that he and his Senate counterpart on the budget conference committee, Finance Chairwoman Jane Nelson (R-Flower Mound), are exploring the use of the Economic Stabilization Fund, known as the rainy day fund, as well as transportation payment deferral in order to balance the budget. To read more…

Numerous bills die in “Mother’s Day Massacre.”Thursday was the final day for bills originating in the House to be given an initial hearing on the House floor. The House met until midnight but only made it to page 7 of a 21-page general calendar. On Friday, a small group of conservative lawmakers used parliamentary maneuvers to kill a 100-plus bill local and consent calendar, which typically consists of fast-tracked, non-controversial bills. Many bills died in what was dubbed the “Mother’s Day Massacre.” To read more…

Only in Austin…The Austin City Limits lineup has been released for the 2017 festival, which will be held October 6-8 and October 13-15 at Zilker Park. Headliners will include Red Hot Chili Peppers, Ice Cube, and Foster the People. 3-day tickets are available now. To read more…