Have you ever hear a phrase on the Texas House floor and thought, “Well, that just became legend”? That’s exactly what happened when Representative Harold Dutton Jr. took a deep breath at the back mic and delivered this gem: “If the Senate won’t respect us, they need to expect us.” Boom. Mic dropped harder than a budget bill in conference committee. In Texas legislative circles, that line has become part battle cry, part therapy mantra for House members who’ve …
A Broken Compass: Boy Scouts Offer Lessons for All Nonprofits
“Scout’s honor” is more than just a phrase. For generations, it’s been a sacred promise—an oath to be trustworthy, loyal, helpful, and brave. It’s the backbone of a moral code drilled into millions of American youth through the Boy Scouts of America (BSA). To say “Scout’s honor” is to say: you can count on me. But what happens when the adults in charge—those entrusted with upholding and modeling that code—fail to live by it themselves? In an era when politics can infiltrate every corner of …
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Texas Ethics Commission: The Agency’s Role In Promoting Transparency
The Texas Ethics Commission plays a crucial role in ensuring ethical conduct and transparency within the state's political landscape. Established to promote accountability and integrity, the Texas Ethics Commission oversees various aspects of political and governmental ethics in Texas. This post will explore the agency profile, leadership, history, and programs administered by the Texas Ethics Commission. Understanding the commission's functions and significance can help Texans appreciate its …
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Birthright Citizenship: Important Implications for State and Local Governments
Introduction: The Rising Debate The concept of birthright citizenship—granting U.S. citizenship to nearly all individuals born on American soil—is under renewed political scrutiny. Shortly after taking office on January 20, 2025, President Trump issued Executive Order 14160 - Protecting The Meaning And Value Of American Citizenship – The White House - to substantially narrow the application of birthright citizenship in the United States. If fully implemented and eventually codified by …
Newborn Screening: A Texas Spotlight on Science and Policy
What Is Newborn Screening The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) runs the Newborn Screening (NBS) Program. This public health program checks newborn babies for serious medical conditions that do not show symptoms at birth but can cause harm or death if not treated early. Texas law requires all babies to get screened. The screening includes: More specifically, the program screens blood for 59 serious health problems, including: Doctors and public health leaders are …
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How does Texas fund and manage its trauma care system?
Texas features one of the largest trauma care systems in the country. But behind the emergency room doors lies a complex web of funding mechanisms, regional coordination, and public policy decisions. The Texas trauma care system, in short, is the safety net that keeps people alive after car crashes, falls, gunshots, and other critical emergencies. The Texas Legislature directly shapes many of these components. Thus, ensuring that the safety net is strong, well-funded, and responsive takes …
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