Despite Texas’ “aggressive” well-plugging program, there’s still a backlog of orphaned oil and gas wells

No state has punched more holes in its bedrock than the Lone Star State. The environmental risks are staggering, and so are the clean up costs, especially in the Permian Basin.
After overlooking O’Rourke, national Democrats show early confidence in Allred

Six years after Beto O’Rourke nearly toppled Ted Cruz, Democrats outside Texas are expressing confidence in Colin Allred’s 2024 challenge.
Six Texas freshwater mussels, the “livers of the rivers,” added to endangered species list

Freshwater mussels can pump and filter eight to 15 gallons of water a day, cleaning rivers and streams. Six of the 50 mussels that call Texas home are federally protected by Monday’s listing.
Border mayors heading to Washington D.C. for Biden immigration announcement
President Joe Biden is expected to announce a major policy change to limit how many asylum seekers are allowed into the country.
National Republicans target Henry Cuellar’s South Texas seat after indictment

The move is a shift in strategy for Republicans who previously focused on other South Texas races even after federal authorities filed criminal charges against the Democrat.
Texas legislators want to help property owners deal with squatters. But the changes could affect tenants.

Housing advocates say Texas laws fall short when it comes to property trespassers but they warn changes could worsen the state’s evictions crisis.
How a chance meeting helped Texas become the nation’s top beekeeping state

Twelve years after a state law gave tax breaks for keeping bees on at least five acres, people are still getting into the trade — or throwing in the towel and hiring professionals to do it for them.
U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee says she’s being treated for pancreatic cancer

Lee, a Houston Democrat, said she plans to continue serving but could have some occasional absences from Congress.
Majority of incoming Texas House Republicans calls for end to Democratic committee chairs, narrowing path for Phelan

House Speaker Dade Phelan has stuck to the tradition of appointing chairs from the opposing party, drawing fierce pushback from the GOP’s right wing.
First Texas National Guard troops move into new Eagle Pass base

Gov. Greg Abbott inaugurated the base, which will be able to house at least 1,800 troops when construction is finished.