Podcasts about texas senate bill

In this episode of Talk Law Radio, host Todd Marquardt brings together trusted voices in finance, law, and public service to help listeners uncover hidden legal and financial blind spots—and start the new year with clarity and confidence.

Donate (no account necessary) | Subscribe (account required) Join Bryan Dean Wright, former CIA Operations Officer, as he dives into today's top stories shaping America and the world. In this Thursday Headline Brief of The Wright Report, Bryan delivers hopeful news for your pocketbook as U.S. oil producers begin ramping up drilling in Texas, New Mexico, and Venezuela, signaling that relief at the gas pump may eventually be coming—even as the world remains trapped in an oil squeeze caused by the war with Iran and the closed Strait of Hormuz. He breaks down President Trump's latest peace proposal to Tehran, which would require Iran to surrender its highly enriched uranium, halt enrichment for 15 years, and abandon underground nuclear facilities in exchange for lifted sanctions and a gradual reopening of Hormuz. Bryan explains why the next 48 hours could determine whether Iran's regime accepts a deal or risks economic collapse as oil storage runs out and the Trump blockade continues to choke off revenue. He also covers major domestic fallout from the attempted assassination of President Trump, including new confirmation that radical leftist attacker Cole Allen was partly motivated by the Iran war and anti-Trump rhetoric, plus controversy over a Democrat judge accused of showing sympathy toward the suspect. Bryan then highlights DOJ investigations into a Soros-backed Virginia prosecutor accused of protecting criminal illegal immigrants, a Virginia state senator facing bribery allegations tied to a cannabis business, and Barack Obama's latest comments on justice and the rule of law, which Bryan sharply challenges. Plus, Bryan reports on anti-ICE riots at a New York hospital, Texas' push to let police arrest and deport illegal border crossers, the White House effort to kill offshore wind projects in favor of oil and gas investment, and practical medical updates on testosterone and brain cancer, cranberry juice helping antibiotics fight UTIs, and a simple 10-minute floor routine that improves balance and mobility as we age.   "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." - John 8:32     Keywords: Trump Iran peace deal proposal 2026 Strait of Hormuz reopening, US oil drilling Permian Basin Venezuela production gas prices summer 2026, Cole Allen Trump assassination attempt motive Iran war anti-Christ rhetoric, Virginia Soros DA Steve Descano DOJ investigation illegal immigrant crimes, Louise Lucas FBI raid cannabis bribery corruption Virginia, Obama Stephen Colbert interview rule of law criticism 2026, anti ICE riot NYC hospital Nigerian illegal immigrant arrest, Texas Senate Bill 4 immigration arrests deportation law, offshore wind farm cancellations Trump oil gas policy, glioblastoma testosterone treatment Cleveland Clinic study, cranberry juice UTI antibiotics research, 10 minute floor exercises balance mobility aging Japan study, Bryan Dean Wright podcast, The Wright Report  

The Dean's List with Host Dean Bowen – In a razor thin 9–8 vote, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit confirmed Texas Senate Bill 10, overturning the lower-court injunctions that had barred the 2025 law from taking effect. The ACLU lamented the decision. “We are extremely disappointed in today's decision. The Court's ruling goes against fundamental First Amendment principles and...

Shareholder Advocacy in 2026: A Season Defined by Upheaval and Resilience *A deeper look at the key themes and proposals in the Proxy Preview 2026 report by As You Sow and Proxy Impact* The 2026 proxy season is arriving amid one of the most turbulent regulatory environments shareholder advocates have faced in decades. Actions by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) under Chair Paul Atkins have introduced a series of new barriers to shareholder participation — limiting who can file resolutions, restricting exempt solicitations on EDGAR, and signaling a broader retreat from the corporate disclosure requirements that have defined the modern era of investor oversight. Filing thresholds have been quietly tightened. The procedural goalposts have moved. And the agency that once served as a neutral referee on what does and does not belong on a proxy ballot has, in practice, stepped off the field. And yet, shareholders are not retreating. As Proxy Preview publisher Andrew Behar puts it, they are “standing shoulder to shoulder” — the early warning system that corporations have long relied on, whether they admit it or not. The proposals filed this year are, if anything, more ambitious than in seasons past. Investors are not waiting to see how the regulatory landscape settles. They are filing, litigating, and engaging on the assumption that the right to ask questions about material risk is theirs to exercise regardless of who chairs the SEC. This year’s Proxy Preview, produced by As You Sow and Proxy Impact, offers a sweeping look at the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) proposals headed to shareholder votes in 2026. The themes range from the data center buildout reshaping America’s electricity grid, to the legal liabilities mounting against Big Tech, to the quiet but consequential question of who gets to decide what counts as “proper business” at an annual meeting. Here’s what investors need to know. The Political and Legal Backdrop The story of the 2026 season cannot be told without first addressing what happened to the SEC’s no-action process. Historically, when a company wanted to exclude a shareholder proposal from its proxy statement, it would file a no-action request with the SEC, which would review the proposal on its merits and issue guidance. That process — imperfect but functional — was effectively suspended this year, triggered in part by a prolonged government shutdown that left the agency without the bandwidth to render decisions. The result was a free-for-all. Companies, sensing an opening, filed notices of intent to exclude proposals on a range of novel theories. The most aggressive of these was the so-called “Delaware Proper Business” argument, which holds that advisory shareholder proposals — the non-binding resolutions that have been the backbone of shareholder advocacy for decades — are not “proper business” for an annual meeting under Delaware corporate law. If accepted, that theory would effectively wipe out the entire category. Shareholders pushed back, hard. Lawsuits were filed against AT&T, Axon, Chubb, BJ’s Wholesale, and PepsiCo. AT&T and Pepsi settled quickly, restoring the proposals to their proxies. At Axon, a federal court ordered the parties to explore a negotiated resolution rather than rule on the merits — a signal that judges are skeptical of the broad exclusion theories companies have been advancing. The Chubb and BJ’s cases remain in active litigation as of this writing. Meanwhile, in a parallel front, a federal court struck down Texas Senate Bill 13 — the state’s anti-ESG law that restricted public pension funds from doing business with financial firms deemed to “boycott” fossil fuel companies — as unconstitutionally overbroad and vague. It is the first federal court decision to invalidate this type of statute, and it sets up a potential precedent that could unwind similar laws in roughly a dozen other states. The pattern, taken together, is clear. Where companies and state legislatures have tried to use procedural and legal tools to silence shareholder voice, the courts have so far been unwilling to go along. Climate: Data Centers, Stranded Assets, and Insurance If there is one new climate story dominating the 2026 season, it is the AI buildout. The numbers are striking. In 2025, the number of proposed fossil gas plants in the U.S. nearly tripled, driven almost entirely by soaring electricity demand from new data centers. Utilities that had been quietly retiring coal and gas capacity are now reversing course, citing grid commitments to hyperscale tech customers as the rationale. Investors are responding. Proposals at Amazon, Meta, and Alphabet request disclosure on how the companies’ growing data center operations are compatible with their previously announced climate commitments — many of which include net-zero pledges that look increasingly difficult to reconcile with multi-gigawatt computing expansion. Similar proposals target the utility side of the equation, including Dominion Energy and Southern Company, both of which are major suppliers to data center hubs in Virginia and Georgia. At the same time, the U.S. is in the middle of a climate-driven insurance crisis that is starting to attract serious investor attention. Insured natural-catastrophe losses reached $117 billion in 2024 — more than double the ten-year average. Homeowners insurance premiums rose 24% between 2021 and 2024, and entire ZIP codes in California, Florida, and Louisiana have effectively become uninsurable on the private market. As You Sow has filed a novel “subrogation” proposal at Chubb, asking the insurer to explore using subrogation claims against large emitters to offset climate-related losses. The legal theory borrows from the playbook used against tobacco and opioid manufacturers: if you can identify the parties whose conduct caused the harm, you can pursue them for the cost of paying out claims. Climate transition planning remains a critical investor concern more broadly. Proposals at Harley-Davidson and Verizon push these companies — both of which have ambitious net-zero commitments but published no sustainability reports in 2025 — to develop credible, stand-alone transition plans. The implicit argument is that a target without a plan is not a commitment; it is a press release. Biodiversity: Horseshoe Crabs and Avocado Supply Chains Two of the most distinctive proposals this season concern biodiversity, and both illustrate how shareholder advocacy can move industries that regulators have not. The pharmaceutical industry’s dependence on horseshoe crab blood for drug safety testing is under fresh scrutiny. The compound extracted from the crabs — limulus amebocyte lysate, or LAL — is used to detect bacterial endotoxins in injectable drugs and implantable medical devices. Each year, roughly 1.1 million horseshoe crabs are harvested and bled, with the industry historically claiming low post-bleeding mortality. Independent research suggests the actual mortality rate is closer to 30%, with knock-on effects for shorebirds and other species that depend on horseshoe crab eggs as a food source. Synthetic alternatives — recombinant Factor C, or rFC — have been commercially available since 2003 and are used routinely by Eli Lilly and others. The U.S. Pharmacopeia, the standards body that governs pharmaceutical testing in the U.S., updated its standards in November 2024 to place rFC on equal regulatory footing with the animal-derived test. That removes the last meaningful technical barrier to transition. Proposals at Abbott and Merck request disclosure about transition timelines. The avocado story is, in some ways, a more hopeful one — a case study in what sustained shareholder engagement can accomplish over time. Mexican avocado production has long been linked to illegal deforestation, with growers clearing protected forest in Michoacán to plant new orchards. As You Sow’s decade-long push for Pro Forest Avocado (PFA) certification — a satellite-based system that monitors orchards in real time for evidence of land-use change — has transformed the supply chain. As of March 2026, over 60 Mexican avocado packers are PFA-certified, and major U.S. retailers including Costco, Walmart, and Kroger have committed to sourcing from certified suppliers. The notable holdout is Albertsons, which has not responded to repeated engagement requests and is the focus of a 2026 proposal. Social: Human Rights, Surveillance, and Child Safety Big Tech is facing what Michael Passoff of Proxy Impact calls its “Big Tobacco moment” — the period when accumulating evidence of harm crosses the threshold from controversial to legally actionable, and the financial consequences begin to compound. The numbers from the past twelve months are difficult to dismiss. In March 2026, Meta was found guilty of violating New Mexico’s consumer protection law and penalized $375 million for its handling of minors on Instagram. Separately, a California court found Meta and Google guilty of creating addictive platform designs that harm young users’ mental health, in a verdict that is likely to be the template for similar cases in other states. Meta’s stock dropped 8% following the verdicts, suggesting the market is finally beginning to price in legal risk that shareholders have been flagging for years. On surveillance, investors at Alphabet/Google and Home Depot are pressing for oversight of customer and user data. The specific concerns are concrete. Home Depot cameras installed in parking lots have, according to public reporting, enabled ICE raids targeting day laborers. Google was hit with a $425.7 million verdict for tracking 98 million users after they had explicitly turned location tracking off. In both cases, the proposals ask not for the companies to change their business models, but for the boards to take responsibility for the data practices their products create. New this year, and likely to attract significant attention: a proposal at Palantir asking the company to conduct a Human Rights Impact Assessment related to its products and services. The proposal follows reports that Palantir’s software is being used by ICE to track and target migrants, including in operations that have separated families and detained individuals without prior criminal records. Palantir has historically resisted human rights disclosure on the grounds that its government contracts are confidential; the proposal tests whether shareholders can compel disclosure of the broader policy framework even when specific contract terms remain under seal. Political Spending and Lobbying Corporate political spending is under heightened scrutiny as the 2026 midterm elections approach. The Center for Political Accountability (CPA), which has been the leading shareholder voice on this issue for two decades, filed disclosure proposals at 29 companies this proxy season. The proposals ask for disclosure of corporate political contributions, including those made to trade associations and other intermediaries that often serve as a workaround for direct disclosure requirements. What is striking is the response. Despite the SEC’s effective invitation to exclude most shareholder proposals this year, only 7 of the 29 companies chose to do so. The other 22 let the proposals proceed to a vote — a tacit acknowledgment that the political risk of being seen to suppress shareholder voice on political spending now outweighs the cost of disclosure. The CPA proposal averaged 41.4% support over 13 votes in 2025, including five majority votes, putting it well above the threshold at which boards typically engage seriously with proponents. The lobbying disclosure campaign also continues, though with a revised proposal structure following a 2025 setback when the SEC sided with Air Products and Chemicals on a technical exclusion argument. The new, streamlined proposal — focused on direct federal and state lobbying amounts and third-party recipients — is being filed at 7 companies including Goldman Sachs, J.P. Morgan Chase, and Morgan Stanley. The narrower scope is designed to be procedurally bulletproof, leaving the substantive question — should a public company tell its owners how much it spends to influence legislation — on the table for shareholders to answer. Governance: Board Accountability and Executive Pay Several governance proposals this season cut to the question of what boards are actually responsible for. Shareholders are requesting that boards provide specific oversight of AI development, climate change, Indigenous peoples’ rights, and data protection — areas where the gap between executive decision-making and board supervision has become particularly wide. A notable Vote No campaign: NYC Pension Funds, the third-largest public pension system in the country, urged Starbucks shareholders to vote against the re-election of two directors, citing over 700 unfair labor practice charges, 60 adverse administrative law decisions, and the quiet disbanding of a labor relations oversight committee that had been formed in response to earlier shareholder pressure. The campaign is significant not only for its scale but for the specificity of its case: this is not a general grievance about management, but a documented record of regulatory findings the directors are charged with overseeing. A new executive compensation proposal at Meta links CEO and executive bonuses to improvements in child safety metrics — a direct response to the company’s mounting legal liability over platform harms to minors. The proposal is structurally interesting because it does not ask the company to take any specific action; it asks only that the compensation committee tie pay to outcomes the company itself has acknowledged as material. If child safety is, as Meta has repeatedly stated in public, a top priority, then linking executive pay to it should be uncontroversial. The vote will reveal whether the board agrees. The Bottom Line The 2026 proxy season is, more than anything, a test of whether shareholders can maintain their voice in corporate governance amid a hostile regulatory environment. The evidence so far is encouraging. When companies have tried to unilaterally exclude proposals, they have largely faced legal challenges and backed down. When state legislatures have tried to penalize ESG-aligned investing, federal courts have intervened. When boards have tried to ignore mounting legal liability, the markets have begun to do the disciplining themselves. As shareholder advocate Nell Minow writes, the likely cost-benefit analysis from executives “who thought they could keep the proposals from going to a shareholder vote was not clear to them until they faced the very real possibility that a court ruling on the legitimacy of the challenged proposal would be a much bigger problem.” In other words: the bet that the SEC’s retreat would translate into a free hand for management has not paid off. The deterrents have simply moved from the regulator to the courts and the proxy ballot itself. Fundamental ownership rights — the right to ask questions about material risks — are not granted by regulators. They are inherent to ownership itself. The 2026 season is shaping up to be the year that principle gets tested, and so far, it is holding. — *Sources: Proxy Preview 2026, published by As You Sow and Proxy Impact. Full report available at [proxypreview.org](https://www.proxypreview.org/).*

Classnotes Podcast (April 24, 2026) – Students, advocates and researchers examine how Texas Senate Bill 17 and related policy changes ... read more The post Student Voices After DEI – The Law in Education – IDRA Classnotes Podcast Episode 253 appeared first on IDRA.

This Day in Legal History: Richard Nixon DiesOn April 22, 1994, Richard Nixon died at the age of 81, marking the end of a presidency that left a lasting imprint on American legal history. Nixon's legacy is inseparable from the Watergate scandal, a constitutional crisis that tested the limits of presidential power. The scandal began with a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters and expanded into a wide-ranging investigation of abuse of executive authority. As evidence mounted, legal battles emerged over whether a sitting president could withhold information under claims of executive privilege.The issue came to a head in the landmark Supreme Court case United States v. Nixon, where the Court unanimously ruled that the president must comply with a subpoena to release tape recordings. This decision significantly narrowed the scope of executive privilege, establishing that it is not absolute and cannot be used to obstruct justice. The ruling reinforced the principle that even the president is subject to the rule of law. Facing near-certain impeachment, Nixon resigned in August 1974, becoming the first U.S. president to do so.His resignation demonstrated the strength of constitutional checks and balances, particularly Congress's oversight authority and the judiciary's role in resolving disputes over executive power. In the years that followed, Watergate prompted reforms such as the War Powers Resolution and amendments to campaign finance laws. Legal scholars continue to cite the episode as a defining moment in the development of accountability for high-ranking officials. Nixon's death in 1994 closed a chapter, but the legal principles shaped during Watergate remain central to debates over presidential authority.West Virginia reached an $11 million settlement with Roblox to address concerns about child safety on the platform. The agreement follows a nine-month investigation led by Attorney General JB McCuskey, which found that existing safeguards exposed children to explicit content and potential predators. As part of the deal, Roblox must implement mandatory age verification before users can access chat features, aiming to reduce anonymous misuse. The platform will also restrict adults from contacting users under 16 unless they are verified trusted connections. Additional protections include default safe-content settings for minors and alerts when young users enter private chats for the first time.The settlement allocates funds over several years, including money for public safety campaigns, internet safety specialists, and educational workshops. Roblox stated that the agreement aligns with its broader goal of improving digital safety and collaborating with regulators. This deal comes amid similar actions by other states, including a recent agreement in Nevada with comparable age verification measures. Multiple lawsuits across the country accuse Roblox of failing to prevent adults from exploiting minors on the platform. Many of these cases have been consolidated in federal court in California, where plaintiffs allege harm resulting from online grooming.W.Va. Strikes $11.5M Deal With Roblox Over Kid Safety - Law360A divided U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit ruled that Texas can require public schools to display the Ten Commandments in every classroom, overturning a lower court order that had blocked the law. The decision upheld Texas Senate Bill 10, finding that the requirement does not violate the Constitution's protections against government establishment of religion or its guarantees of religious freedom. The majority reasoned that the law does not force anyone to adopt religious beliefs or interfere with how individuals practice their faith.The challenge was brought by families from various religious and nonreligious backgrounds, who argued that the mandate infringes on their right to control their children's religious upbringing. Their attorney indicated plans to appeal the ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton praised the decision, calling it a victory for the state and emphasizing the historical influence of the Ten Commandments.The ruling was not unanimous, with a strong dissent arguing that the court ignored binding Supreme Court precedent. The dissent pointed to a 1980 Supreme Court decision that struck down a similar Kentucky law, suggesting the Texas measure should also be unconstitutional. By reversing the earlier injunction, the appeals court cleared the way for the law to take effect while further appeals are expected.Texas can require Ten Commandments in classrooms, US appeals court rules | ReutersLabor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer stepped down from her role in U.S. Department of Labor amid controversy tied to an internal watchdog investigation into alleged misconduct. The probe reportedly examined claims of an inappropriate relationship with a subordinate, along with other workplace concerns, though some allegations were publicly disputed. Her departure follows weeks of media coverage and discussion during a congressional oversight hearing.The White House announced that Chavez-DeRemer will move to a private-sector position, while Deputy Secretary Keith Sonderling will serve as acting head of the agency. In public statements, Chavez-DeRemer highlighted her efforts to support workers, expand job training, and address economic issues during her tenure, while administration officials praised her leadership.The situation also involved broader personnel disruptions, including reports that several aides were placed on leave or left their positions. Additional complaints and allegations—some denied or unproven—contributed to scrutiny surrounding her leadership. Her husband was also investigated over separate allegations, though no charges were filed.Chavez-DeRemer's exit adds to other recent Cabinet-level departures during Donald Trump's administration. Lawmakers, including Representative Rosa DeLauro, criticized the situation as a leadership failure and called for a replacement focused on the department's mission. Observers noted that Sonderling could be a leading candidate for the permanent role, though no official nomination has been announced.Trump's Labor Secretary Steps Down - Law360A federal appeals court, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, ruled that a nearly 160-year-old ban on home distilling is constitutional, deepening a disagreement with another appellate court. The court said the prohibition is a valid way for Congress to ensure collection of excise taxes on distilled spirits, reasoning that allowing home production could lead to widespread tax evasion. The case was brought by John Ream, who wanted to distill whiskey at home for personal use.The ruling comes shortly after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit reached the opposite conclusion, finding the same law unnecessary and unconstitutional. This disagreement between appellate courts—known as a circuit split—raises the likelihood that the U.S. Supreme Court will step in to resolve the issue. Ream's legal team has already indicated plans to appeal.The law at issue dates back to 1868, when Congress enacted it during Reconstruction to combat liquor tax evasion. Violations can carry significant penalties, including prison time and fines. In upholding the ban, the majority opinion emphasized Congress's longstanding rationale that prohibiting home distilling encourages consumers to buy taxed alcohol instead. A dissenting judge, however, argued the case should not proceed because Ream failed to show he faced a real risk of prosecution.US appeals court calls 158-year-old home distilling ban constitutional, creates split | Reuters This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

This week on the Queer News podcast, in top news Kansas dangerous anti-trans politics leads to hundreds of Trans Kansans losing their drivers licenses overnight. In politics, celebrations are in order as Texas has been issued a preliminary injunction by the Federal Court. In Florida, Pulse Nightclub is set to be demolished this month. In culture and entertainment, we dive into Wanda Sykes' new lead role, a trans Chicago comedian saves a baby from freezing in Lake Michigan and Queer folks win at the NAACP Image Awards.   Want to support this podcast?

Send a textA rural county's safety net is only as strong as the deputies willing to hold the line.In Episode 128, we sit down with TMPA Regional Attorney and former Polk County District Attorney Lee Hon alongside TMPA Field Representative Robby Campbell to break down the growing controversy surrounding Polk County leadership and its impact on law enforcement.At the center of the discussion is Polk County Judge Sydney Murphy and the debate over Texas Senate Bill 22, a bill intended to help rural agencies raise salaries and remain competitive. We examine how Judge Murphy reduced the county-funded pay raise specifically for law enforcement because of SB22 funding, effectively offsetting the purpose of the state assistance.The episode follows the money from courthouse construction costs and elected officials' pay increases to a grant-funded Public Defender's Office that could exceed one million dollars annually once state funding sunsets. Meanwhile, the sheriff's office and jail face retention challenges, staffing shortages, and declining morale.We also touch on the Brady List as another topic impacting officers and accountability.Most importantly, we discuss solutions: transparent multi-year compensation plans, retention incentives, and leadership that honors the true intent of SB22.Public safety is a promise. Episode 128 asks whether that promise is being protected.Support the showemail us at- bluegrit@tmpa.org

In this episode of Talk Law Radio, host Todd Marquardt brings together trusted voices in finance, law, and public service to help listeners uncover hidden legal and financial blind spots—and start the new year with clarity and confidence.

Marc and Tonya J. Powers discuss the ongoing legal challenge to Texas Senate Bill 12, which bans DEI programs and restricts discussion of gender identity and sexual orientation in K–12 schools. Tanya explains the court's delay and compares the case to Florida's “Don't Say Gay” law, noting potential First Amendment implications and parental opt-in requirements. They highlight the Lieutenant Governor's stance on parental empowerment, reflect on how the pandemic exposed school curricula to parents, and preview related stories about local health system controversies affecting minors.

This episode explores the quiet, constant tension male teachers experience when trying to build authentic relationships with students. From hugs to high-fives, what feels natural for many female educators often feels risky or off-limits for their male colleagues. We also dive into Texas Senate Bill 12 (SB12), a new law that requires parental consent for schools to provide basic health or emotional support—yes, even for a band-aid or a conversation with a counselor. In This Episode: The double standard male educators face in classrooms Real-life examples of how the same gesture can be interpreted differently The internal checklist male teachers run through every day How SB12 amplifies caution and changes the student-teacher dynamic Why all educators should care about the long-term impact of SB12 A call for empathy, awareness, and proactive communication among staff Call to Action: Start a conversation with your colleagues about how policy and perception shape the way we show care in the classroom. If you're a male teacher, share your experience. If you're not, ask about theirs. Connect With Gabriel Carrillo EdTech Bites Website: https://edtechbites.com EdTech Bites On Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/edtechbites.bsky.social EdTech Bites Instagram: https://instagram.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites X: https://twitter.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites Facebook Page: https://facebook.com/edtechbites EdTech Bites On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@edtechbites EdTech Bites YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@edtechbites  

Today, Blair discusses Senate Bill 140, a new Texas law that changes how real estate professionals can contact clients. 

We're joined by Texas State Representative Gene Wu, Minority Leader and Chair of the Democratic Caucus. In his thirteenth year in the House, Wu is sounding the alarm on Texas Senate Bill 17, a new law he says revives “anti‑alien land” restrictions from a century ago. He argues it creates two classes of Americans—one with full rights and another with limited rights—and echoes the path that led to Japanese internment. In this urgent conversation, Wu explains why SB 17 terrifies immigrant communities, why silence is dangerous, and what must be done to fight back. Tweet us at @podcastcolors. Check out our partner program on international affairs, Global with JJ Green on Substack. Please subscribe. Email us at colors@the colorspodcast.com.

Today, Blair discusses Texas Senate Bill 17 and who are prohibited from buying real property interests in Texas.

Message us!Are you a student planning to become a CPA? An educator shaping tomorrow's accounting leaders? Or a professional navigating a shifting talent landscape?What if the rules just changed and your journey, your curriculum, or your hiring strategy could look completely different?In this episode of Whitley Penn Talks, host Kendall Jones Neukomm is joined by Valerie King, Associate Director of Early Talent at Whitley Penn, and Kirsten Cook, Director of the Lyons School of Accounting at Texas Tech University, to explore the new reality of CPA licensure in Texas following the passage of Senate Bill 262.Building on a previous episode featuring policymakers, this conversation shifts to the educator and employer perspectives. Kirsten shares how SB 262, introducing an alternative pathway to CPA certification, could reshape accounting education, curriculum design, and student decision-making. Valerie offers a boots-on-the-ground view from college campuses, discussing how students are responding and what firms are considering as they adapt to the new reality.Whether you're a student, educator, or employer, this episode offers valuable insights into how Texas is reimagining the path to becoming a CPA and what it means for the future of the profession.Together, they unpack: What SB 262 entails and its implementation timelineThe challenges and opportunities for universities and firmsConcerns around maintaining rigor and CPA exam readinessThe potential long-term impact on the accounting talent pipelineFill out this form to have new episodes sent right to your inbox! Follow Whitley Penn on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and X for more industry insights and thought leadership!

This week on The Otaku Host Club, we're talking Texas Senate Bill 20 — the kind of law that would probably land us in jail just for watching half the stuff we've covered on the pod. From classics to the weird deep cuts, we run down 12 shows from past episodes and imagine how guilty we'd be if anime crimes were real. Lock us up, we'll take our Blu-rays with us.

New Era Energy & Digital CEO Will Gray joined Steve Darling from Proactive to announce the successful completion of Phase One engineering for Texas Critical Data Centers LLC, the company's flagship data center and power development project located in the heart of the Permian Basin of West Texas and southeastern New Mexico. TCDC is structured as a 50/50 joint venture between New Era and Sharon AI, Inc., combining expertise in energy infrastructure and artificial intelligence. Phase One engineering included a comprehensive series of environmental studies — all of which successfully passed review — along with detailed feasibility assessments for data center development and load studies to evaluate long-term energy requirements. Gray confirmed that the next step will be filing a large load interconnection application, a key milestone that will set the foundation for securing reliable energy delivery to the site. Based on the current project timeline, New Era anticipates that initial power delivery could begin as early as 2027. The TCDC campus is being designed to ultimately scale to 1 gigawatt of power capacity, positioning it as one of the largest AI-optimized data center complexes in North America. This ambitious design underscores the growing demand for next-generation data infrastructure capable of supporting artificial intelligence workloads, cloud computing, and high-performance computing applications. The project is further strengthened by previously announced partnerships that will establish behind-the-meter power islands, ensuring reliable energy delivery while maintaining compliance with Texas Senate Bill 6. This legislation, which directly affects large energy consumers like data centers on the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) grid, requires new operational models for balancing grid reliability with rising power demands. Gray emphasized that completing Phase One engineering validates the constructability and scalability of the TCDC project, providing a clear pathway toward developing a premier energy and data hub that will meet the needs of both AI-driven industries and broader digital infrastructure markets. #proactiveinvestors #neweraheliuminc #nasdaq #nuai #oil #gas #perimianbasin #HeliumProduction #NaturalGas #DataCenters #AIInfrastructure #PecosSlope #VerticalIntegration #EnergyMarkets #PermianBasin #Semiconductors #PowerGeneration #ProactiveInvestors

Message us!In this episode, host Kendall Jones-Neukomm is joined by risk advisory and cybersecurity professionals Jesus Vega and John Williamson to break down Texas Senate Bill 2610, a transformative new law that introduces a “safe harbor” for small and mid-sized businesses in the event of a data breach.With Texas SB 2610 taking effect on September 1, 2025, this conversation explores how businesses can proactively protect themselves from punitive damages, reduce insurance costs, and build a stronger cybersecurity culture. Whether you're a business owner, CFO, or IT leader, this episode offers actionable insights to help you navigate the new legal landscape and turn compliance into a strategic advantage.Register for our webinar here: https://web.cvent.com/event/C2965E09-C0DD-4B14-A6A1-73CA1F7E2185/regProcessStep1Topics Discussed:- Understanding what the law entails and why it matters for Texas businesses- How adopting recognized cybersecurity compliance frameworks can shield companies from exemplary legal damages- Tailored requirements for businesses with under 250 employees- How SB 2610 can strategically reduce risk, lower costs, and improve reputationFill out this form to have new episodes sent right to your inbox! Follow Whitley Penn on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and X for more industry insights and thought leadership!

Tabetha Harrison is one of the nation's foremost experts on stalking—and she's changing the way we understand it. A former law enforcement officer and investigator, Tabetha has dedicated her career to proving that stalking isn't just a nuisance crime. It's a dangerous form of coercive control—and one of the clearest warning signs before domestic violence turns deadly. Her work helped shape Texas Senate Bill 1717, reforming the state's stalking laws to put survivors first. Today, she trains agencies on stalking lethality, risk assessment, and coordinated community response. With unmatched expertise and a clear, urgent message, Tabetha is sounding the alarm: stalking is a red flag no one can afford to ignore.HAVE YOU EXPERIENCED STALKING? LET US KNOW:strictlystalkingpod@gmail.comPLEASE VISIT OUR SPONSORS!ShopifySign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at SHOPIFY.COM/STRICTLYSTALKING to take your retail business to the next level. That's SHOPIFY.COM/STRICTLYSTALKINGProgressive InsurancePress play on comparing auto rates. Get your auto quote at Progressive.com to join the over 28 million drivers who trust Progressive.GUEST LINKSTabetha Harrisonhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/tabetha-harrison-684a18186OTHER LINKSThe Last Trip - Podcast - hosted by Jaimie BeebeListen & Subscribe to The Last Trip - https://audioboom.com/channels/5119581-the-last-tripFollow The Last Trip on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thelasttripcrimepod/And Subscribe for all the updates on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/TheLastTripPodcastlovelustaw - PodcastApple Podcasts | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lovelustlaw/id1819843688Spotify | https://open.spotify.com/show/6BEWXKOaEo8lfK554a5NqEAmazon Music | https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/2789d9c8-b4ab-4b4a-847d-a469d89b1d0b/lovelustlawInstagram | https://www.instagram.com/lovelustlaw/Website: https://www.michelelocke.com/podcastInstagram:@strictlystalkingpod@feathergirl77@jaked3000See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Classroom Coverup: Coach's Sick Comments Exposed - Texas Football's Twisted Cover-Up! Get ready for a jaw-dropping look at how Texas high school football culture shields predators in a way that will leave you furious and demanding change! We spotlight Kip McFarlin, a high school football coach at Orangefield Independent School District in East Texas during the mid-2000s, accused by six female students in 2005 of using sexually suggestive language, making lewd remarks in class and during practices, and telling one teenage girl that he'd date her if she weren't a student. These weren't isolated quips; reports described a pattern of inappropriate comments that made the girls feel uncomfortable, objectified, and unsafe, like joking about their bodies or implying romantic interest in ways that crossed every professional boundary. Parents got involved, alerting administrators and pushing for action, but the district's response was tepid at best—they investigated internally but instead of reporting to authorities or revoking his credentials as required under Texas mandatory reporting laws for reasonable suspicion of abuse, they allowed what officials later called a "graceful exit." McFarlin resigned quietly, receiving a neutral recommendation letter that omitted any mention of the allegations, essentially wiping his slate clean to move on without consequence. This decision wasn't made in a vacuum; it reflected the intense pressures districts face in football-crazed Texas, where coaches are often treated like local heroes, and firing one outright could invite union battles, defamation claims if the evidence wasn't ironclad, or community backlash that disrupts seasons and booster funding. So McFarlin walked away with his teaching certificate intact, free to seek new opportunities without any red flags following him. Fast forward to 2008: He lands a coaching job at Port Arthur Independent School District, about 20 miles away in the same region, after passing a background check that came up empty because Orangefield hadn't documented or shared the complaints. For three years, he taught and coached without incident—or at least none reported—but in 2011, the other shoe dropped: McFarlin was accused of having sex with a 16-year-old female student from his school. The relationship allegedly started with grooming—flirty texts, special attention during class—and escalated to multiple sexual encounters that exploited his position of authority. The victim came forward, leading to his arrest on charges of sexual assault of a child and improper relationship between educator and student, both felonies under Texas law. The trial revealed damning evidence, including witness testimonies and communications that showed McFarlin abusing his role, resulting in his conviction in 2012 and an eight-year prison sentence, plus lifelong sex offender registration. But the story didn't end there—the victim's family sued both districts in 2013 under the case Truong v. Orangefield Independent School District, alleging negligence for "passing the trash" and enabling the abuse at Port Arthur through their silence. They argued Orangefield's neutral reference hid the 2005 complaints, putting their daughter directly in harm's way. While the exact settlement amount wasn't publicized, such cases often result in substantial payouts—similar to the millions seen in other Texas abuse suits—and the litigation highlighted Texas' pre-2017 gaps in reporting laws, where "boundary violations" weren't always flagged as abuse.  McFarlin's case didn't happen in isolation; it's emblematic of Texas' long-standing issues with educator misconduct, a state with one of the highest rates of teacher-student sexual relationships in the country, with over 2,500 charges since 2017 alone according to Texas Education Agency data, yet thousands more cases end in "administrative separations"—quiet resignations without charges or reports that allow predators to relocate. A 2016 USA Today Network investigation, which featured McFarlin prominently, uncovered hundreds of similar instances nationwide, where abusers hopped jobs after cover-ups, and in Texas, the probe revealed districts like Orangefield prioritizing reputation over safety, especially in sports programs where coaches wield outsized influence and football is king. Parents and victims in McFarlin's orbit have shared gut-wrenching stories of the lasting impact: The 16-year-old from Port Arthur endured not just the abuse but the trauma of testifying in court, facing cross-examination that questioned her credibility—a common tactic in these cases that revictimizes survivors—and dealing with lifelong trust issues, anxiety, and relationship difficulties that stem from the betrayal.  Back in Orangefield, the six girls from 2005 felt validated by the conviction but frustrated that their warnings went unheeded, with one anonymous victim telling reporters she felt "dismissed" when administrators downplayed her complaints as "misunderstandings," a minimization that's a hallmark of "passing the trash" where districts label behaviors as "poor judgment" rather than potential grooming to avoid mandatory reporting. This case ties directly to the series themes: Like the coaching abuses in Oregon's St. Helens scandal (Episode 8) or the multi-state shuffles in Gregor's story (Episode 5). The fallout was significant—McFarlin served his sentence and was released on parole around 2020, but his case catalyzed change, contributing to Texas Senate Bill 7 in 2017, which cracked down on educator-student relationships by expanding investigations, toughening penalties (up to 20 years for felonies), and mandating disclosures of prior misconduct during hiring. Governor Greg Abbott signed it, calling it a step to "protect our children from predators," but as we saw in Episode 2 with McGann, gaps remain in enforcement.  On X, parents rage about "coach worship" in Texas, sharing stats like the 429 educator arrests for child sex crimes from 2014-2018 and calling for zero tolerance. Watch to see how sports enable cover-ups and what we can do to stop it—hit subscribe for more shocking revelations that will change how you view school safety!  Hashtags: #ClassroomCoverup #CoachCoverUp #TexasFootballScandal #McFarlinExposed #SchoolPredator #IgnoredComplaints #TeacherAssault #ProtectTeenGirls #TrueCrimeCoach #PassingTheTrashTexas Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@hiddenkillerspod Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspod X Twitter https://x.com/tonybpod Listen Ad-Free On Apple Podcasts Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-crime-today-premium-plus-ad-free-advance-episode/id1705422872

Classroom Coverup: Coach's Sick Comments Exposed - Texas Football's Twisted Cover-Up! Get ready for a jaw-dropping look at how Texas high school football culture shields predators in a way that will leave you furious and demanding change! We spotlight Kip McFarlin, a high school football coach at Orangefield Independent School District in East Texas during the mid-2000s, accused by six female students in 2005 of using sexually suggestive language, making lewd remarks in class and during practices, and telling one teenage girl that he'd date her if she weren't a student. These weren't isolated quips; reports described a pattern of inappropriate comments that made the girls feel uncomfortable, objectified, and unsafe, like joking about their bodies or implying romantic interest in ways that crossed every professional boundary. Parents got involved, alerting administrators and pushing for action, but the district's response was tepid at best—they investigated internally but instead of reporting to authorities or revoking his credentials as required under Texas mandatory reporting laws for reasonable suspicion of abuse, they allowed what officials later called a "graceful exit." McFarlin resigned quietly, receiving a neutral recommendation letter that omitted any mention of the allegations, essentially wiping his slate clean to move on without consequence. This decision wasn't made in a vacuum; it reflected the intense pressures districts face in football-crazed Texas, where coaches are often treated like local heroes, and firing one outright could invite union battles, defamation claims if the evidence wasn't ironclad, or community backlash that disrupts seasons and booster funding. So McFarlin walked away with his teaching certificate intact, free to seek new opportunities without any red flags following him. Fast forward to 2008: He lands a coaching job at Port Arthur Independent School District, about 20 miles away in the same region, after passing a background check that came up empty because Orangefield hadn't documented or shared the complaints. For three years, he taught and coached without incident—or at least none reported—but in 2011, the other shoe dropped: McFarlin was accused of having sex with a 16-year-old female student from his school. The relationship allegedly started with grooming—flirty texts, special attention during class—and escalated to multiple sexual encounters that exploited his position of authority. The victim came forward, leading to his arrest on charges of sexual assault of a child and improper relationship between educator and student, both felonies under Texas law. The trial revealed damning evidence, including witness testimonies and communications that showed McFarlin abusing his role, resulting in his conviction in 2012 and an eight-year prison sentence, plus lifelong sex offender registration. But the story didn't end there—the victim's family sued both districts in 2013 under the case Truong v. Orangefield Independent School District, alleging negligence for "passing the trash" and enabling the abuse at Port Arthur through their silence. They argued Orangefield's neutral reference hid the 2005 complaints, putting their daughter directly in harm's way. While the exact settlement amount wasn't publicized, such cases often result in substantial payouts—similar to the millions seen in other Texas abuse suits—and the litigation highlighted Texas' pre-2017 gaps in reporting laws, where "boundary violations" weren't always flagged as abuse.  McFarlin's case didn't happen in isolation; it's emblematic of Texas' long-standing issues with educator misconduct, a state with one of the highest rates of teacher-student sexual relationships in the country, with over 2,500 charges since 2017 alone according to Texas Education Agency data, yet thousands more cases end in "administrative separations"—quiet resignations without charges or reports that allow predators to relocate. A 2016 USA Today Network investigation, which featured McFarlin prominently, uncovered hundreds of similar instances nationwide, where abusers hopped jobs after cover-ups, and in Texas, the probe revealed districts like Orangefield prioritizing reputation over safety, especially in sports programs where coaches wield outsized influence and football is king. Parents and victims in McFarlin's orbit have shared gut-wrenching stories of the lasting impact: The 16-year-old from Port Arthur endured not just the abuse but the trauma of testifying in court, facing cross-examination that questioned her credibility—a common tactic in these cases that revictimizes survivors—and dealing with lifelong trust issues, anxiety, and relationship difficulties that stem from the betrayal.  Back in Orangefield, the six girls from 2005 felt validated by the conviction but frustrated that their warnings went unheeded, with one anonymous victim telling reporters she felt "dismissed" when administrators downplayed her complaints as "misunderstandings," a minimization that's a hallmark of "passing the trash" where districts label behaviors as "poor judgment" rather than potential grooming to avoid mandatory reporting. This case ties directly to the series themes: Like the coaching abuses in Oregon's St. Helens scandal (Episode 8) or the multi-state shuffles in Gregor's story (Episode 5). The fallout was significant—McFarlin served his sentence and was released on parole around 2020, but his case catalyzed change, contributing to Texas Senate Bill 7 in 2017, which cracked down on educator-student relationships by expanding investigations, toughening penalties (up to 20 years for felonies), and mandating disclosures of prior misconduct during hiring. Governor Greg Abbott signed it, calling it a step to "protect our children from predators," but as we saw in Episode 2 with McGann, gaps remain in enforcement.  On X, parents rage about "coach worship" in Texas, sharing stats like the 429 educator arrests for child sex crimes from 2014-2018 and calling for zero tolerance. Watch to see how sports enable cover-ups and what we can do to stop it—hit subscribe for more shocking revelations that will change how you view school safety!  Hashtags: #ClassroomCoverup #CoachCoverUp #TexasFootballScandal #McFarlinExposed #SchoolPredator #IgnoredComplaints #TeacherAssault #ProtectTeenGirls #TrueCrimeCoach #PassingTheTrashTexas Want to comment and watch this podcast as a video? Check out our YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/@hiddenkillerspod Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hiddenkillerspod/ Tik-Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenkillerspod X Twitter https://x.com/tonybpod Listen Ad-Free On Apple Podcasts Here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/true-crime-today-premium-plus-ad-free-advance-episode/id1705422872

In this week's episode of The Industrialist: Shop Talk, Jeremy and Jeff tackle Week 31 with a lively breakdown of the Big Ten football landscape for the upcoming 2025 season. From Ohio State's repeat title hopes to Oregon's portal power plays and Indiana's All-American-loaded defense, the duo dishes out win predictions, sleeper picks, and must-watch matchups.They also dive into real estate and economic updates, including market movements, jobless claims, and real estate stock performance. To close out, they unpack Texas Senate Bill 17—a new law banning certain foreign nationals from acquiring Texas real estate—and how it's already disrupting deal pipelines and raising constitutional questions among brokers and investors.

Message us!In this episode, Kendall Jones is joined by Katherine Kirk and Texas State Representative Brooks Landgraf to discuss Texas Senate Bill 262 and 522, two recent legislative efforts aimed at modernizing CPA standards and improving mobility in Texas. Listeners will gain valuable insights and practical perspectives on how young accounting professionals can adapt to these changes and how firms are positioning for long-term success.In this episode, you'll learn: - What Texas Senate Bill 262 and 522 propose and why they were created - Insights into the legislative process of creating these two bills - How these bills aim to address challenges in the Texas accounting industry - What these changes could mean for your hiring, education, and compliance strategiesFill out this form to have new episodes sent right to your inbox! Follow Whitley Penn on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and X for more industry insights and thought leadership!

Story at-a-glance Texas Senate Bill 25 requires processed foods with banned ingredients to display a warning label stating they are “not recommended for human consumption.” It was signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott on June 22, 2025 and takes effect September 1 The law targets 44 harmful ingredients already banned overseas, including artificial dyes, seed oils, bleached flour, and chemical preservatives found in everyday snacks Companies like PepsiCo, General Mills, and Walmart lobbied hard to weaken the bill, arguing it would hurt profits and create “confusion” for consumers Industry pressure already forced lawmakers to remove aspartame and high fructose corn syrup — two ingredients with known health risks — from the bill's scope Loopholes in the bill allow old packaging to remain on shelves for years, giving food companies time to keep selling toxic products without new warning labels

John Burk, Army veteran and co-founder of Shell Shock CBD, joins the show to discuss the battle over Texas Senate Bill 3 (SB3), a controversial piece of legislation that threatens to dismantle the state's hemp industry. In this powerful episode, John shares his personal story, the mission behind Shell Shock CBD, and why he's leading the charge to defend small businesses, veterans' rights, and access to hemp-based wellness. We dive deep into: The real impact of SB3 on Texas jobs and veteran-owned businesses Misconceptions about hemp vs. marijuana The role of CBD in supporting veterans' mental health Why the federal government is pushing to ban hemp-derived THC nationwide The need for better education, smarter policy, and veteran advocacy Whether you're a veteran, business owner, or simply care about medical freedom—this episode is a must-listen.

Thomas Winstanley, EVP, General Manager of Edibles.com discussed the severe implications of Texas Senate Bill 3, which proposes a ban on hemp-derived THC products. He highlighted the bill's flawed reasoning, arguing that it disregards consumer demand for safe THC access and would lead to the closure of thousands of businesses and job losses for tens of thousands of workers. Winstanley criticized the political motivations behind the bill, suggesting they are not rooted in genuine health concerns and would instead foster an unregulated illicit market. He emphasized that an outright ban fails to address underlying issues in the hemp industry, and Texas is missing an opportunity to establish a sensible regulatory framework.Winstanley further pointed out the double standards in Texas regulations, contrasting the proposed hemp ban with the state's approach to alcohol, tobacco, and firearms, none of which face similar bans despite documented harms. He noted the strong opposition to SB3, particularly from veterans who rely on hemp products for pain management and fear a return to opioid dependence. Winstanley expressed disappointment that legislative attempts to regulate the industry with THC caps and licensing were ultimately overridden by the ban proposal.Regarding edibles.com, Winstanley explained that the company aims to provide safe access to THC products through a curated marketplace, addressing inconsistencies in quality and testing within the hemp industry. The strategic launch in Texas is a proof of concept for future expansion into states like Florida and Georgia, with plans for nationwide shipping and a flagship retail store in Atlanta. The company's goal is to build consumer trust and legitimacy by connecting them with reputable brands and offering a responsible alternative to unregulated sales. He outlined a vision for effective regulation, including licensing, excise taxes for enforcement, and clear frameworks for product types and dosing, citing Georgia as a successful example of regulated hemp.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Fresh off a major legislative victory in Texas, TRSA's Vice President of Government Relations Kevin Schwalb joins the podcast to discuss the economic benefits of reclassifying the industry under the “retail trade” category for tax purposes, the impact of the new law on TRSA members and the linen, uniform and facility services industry, and how TRSA's advocacy efforts helped get Texas Senate Bill 2774 and House Bill 1769 signed into law by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott. If you're interested in getting involved in TRSA's advocacy efforts, save the date for the 16th Annual Legislative Conference in Washington, DC, on Feb. 17-19, 2026. Visit www.trsa.org/legcon for more information.

Welcome to another episode of Risky Benefits! This week, our special guest is Dr. James Wilcox, who served as Superintendent of Longview Independent School District from 2007 to 2023 and now works as an Employee Benefits Consultant for FBMC. Dr. Wilcox shares fascinating insights from his long career in education, reflecting on the changes in the school system and the pressures today's students face. He discusses the importance of planning and innovative thinking in both education and employee benefits. Additionally, he provides tips for school districts on improving financial health and leveraging legislative opportunities like Texas Senate Bill 1882. Tune in as Dr. Wilcox shares his experiences and advice on creating a positive impact through education and benefits consulting.To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.

Welcome to another episode of Risky Benefits! This week, our special guest is Dr. James Wilcox, who served as Superintendent of Longview Independent School District from 2007 to 2023 and now works as an Employee Benefits Consultant for FBMC. Dr. Wilcox shares fascinating insights from his long career in education, reflecting on the changes in the school system and the pressures today's students face. He discusses the importance of planning and innovative thinking in both education and employee benefits. Additionally, he provides tips for school districts on improving financial health and leveraging legislative opportunities like Texas Senate Bill 1882. Tune in as Dr. Wilcox shares his experiences and advice on creating a positive impact through education and benefits consulting.To listen in and subscribe to more episodes, visit our website: fbmc.com/podcast.

Texas State Senator Angela Paxton encourages Texas moms to rally support for Texas Bill 13 by contacting their Senators. It's coming up for a vote very soon and it will protect Texas from sexually explicit material in school libraries.

Bitcoin strategic reserve legislation at the state level might prompt the US government to adopt a strategic reserve at the federal level with Texas Senate Bill 21 (SB-21), establishing a Bitcoin and crypto strategic reserve, passed the Texas Senate Banking Committee on Feb. 27 in a 9–0 vote and now advances to the Senate floor for further deliberation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, former Democratic State Representative Shawn Thierry reflects on her role in advocating for Texas Senate Bill 14 (TX SB14), which raised the minimum age for gender transition procedures to 18. Despite sharing concerns about the medicalization of minors with her fellow Democratic colleagues, Shawn was warned that her seat would be at stake for going on the record with her position and voting in favor of the bill. Her steadfast commitment to integrity led her to take a stand, even though it ultimately cost her re-election. Shawn discusses the two-year research process that shaped her decision, the personal risks she faced, and the pressures she encountered from within her own party. Throughout the conversation, she highlights the importance of principled leadership, unwavering dedication to doing what is right, and standing firm in the face of political and social pressures.For links and resources relevant to this episode, access the full show notes at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/episode-201 Buy Our Book – When Kids Say They're Trans: A Guide for Thoughtful Parents at https://whenkidssaytheyretrans.com/   Join Our Listener Community to Access Exclusive Content at https://www.widerlenspod.com/   Support the Show at https://www.widerlenspod.com/p/support-the-show   Join the conversation on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@widerlenspod  For more information about Sasha's & Stella's parent coaching membership groups, visit:Sasha Ayad: https://sashaayad.com/parenting-coaching   Stella O'Malley: http://www.stellaomalley.com/parent-coaching  To learn more about our sponsors, visit:Therapy First at https://www.therapyfirst.org/  Genspect at https://genspect.org/  This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.widerlenspod.com/subscribe   This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.widerlenspod.com/subscribe

This episode we speak with a Texas mother, Maeamour Blanton, whose pregnancy nearly resulted in a tragedy because of Texas Senate Bill 8 and the overturning of Roe vs Wade. This riveting account displays why we need to protect women's health during pregnancy at all cost.

In the first episode of Season 6, we chat with Sofia Winograd, the current Editor-in-Chief of the Houston Law Review. Sofia takes us through her background from growing up in Mexico City to deciding to go to law school. She shares some great tips on how she found success in her law school experience and explains why she decided to join the Law Review, ultimately stepping into the EIC role.Sofia opens up about how being EIC has been both what she expected and a bit different. We also talk about the strong community that Law Review creates and how the Houston Law Review makes a real impact on legal scholarship, even getting cited by the Supreme Court! Plus, she gives us a sneak peek into her upcoming article on Texas Senate Bill 17 and shares her vision for the future of the HLR. Tune in for a great conversation!To get a mailing or electronic subscription to the Houston Law Review click here. For more Emphasis Added content, follow us on Instagram and check out our video content on YouTube!

After a prolonged legal back-and-forth that ultimately saw it paused again, Texas Senate Bill 4 returned to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals yesterday. We’ll have the latest on where the immigration law stands.You’ve likely heard the poll numbers in the presidential race. Do you trust them? Some tips on following the many surveys we’ll […] The post What you should know about polling going into election season appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

The back-and-forth over Texas Senate Bill 4 is just the latest in a series of border security disputes between the state and the federal government. This week's episode of Texas Wants to Know digs into who's responsible for what when it comes to the border. UNT Dallas College of Law professor and former U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Southern District of Texas Brian Owsley says control of the border is ultimately a federal responsibility. Jeremy Wallace, a political reporter for the Houston Chronicle and San Antonio Express-News, adds that covering the border requires more nuance than we often give it.

The back-and-forth over Texas Senate Bill 4 is just the latest in a series of border security disputes between the state and the federal government. This week's episode of Texas Wants to Know digs into who's responsible for what when it comes to the border. UNT Dallas College of Law professor and former U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Southern District of Texas Brian Owsley says control of the border is ultimately a federal responsibility. Jeremy Wallace, a political reporter for the Houston Chronicle and San Antonio Express-News, adds that covering the border requires more nuance than we often give it.

Donald Trump sues George Stephanopoulos over some slanderous comments made during an interview with Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.), an actual victim of rape, on ABC's “This Week.” The U.S. Supreme Court voted in favor of Texas Senate Bill 4, which allows the state to arrest immigrants suspected of entering the country illegally. President Joe Biden is angry that Georgia and Michigan polls reveal he's losing ground to his Republican opponent. And a newsletter from the intelligence community suggests crossdressing makes better spies. Eric July, founder of Rippaverse Comics; and actor, producer, and BlazeTV contributor Matthew Marsden join the show. Plus, we have a special guest segment with Texas state Representative Nate Schatzline. Today's Sponsors: Birch Gold Text SARA to 989898 and get your free info kit on gold. PreBorn! To donate, dial #250 and say the keyword “baby” or go to https://preborn.com/sara.   Blaze Originals Go to https://therealbordercrisis.com and use code BORDER to get $30 off your BlazeTV+ subscription. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Texas Senate Bill 4 is currently scheduled to take effect no earlier than Monday, March 18 at 4 p.m. CT. The U.S. Supreme Court is being asked by advocates for immigration to prevent the law from being enforced until it can be declared unconstitutional.

Also, a 17-year-old who was arrested for shooting at an officer was found out to be involved with other criminal activity, and another shooting in Fort Worth's West Seventh Entertainment District happened during St. Patrick's Day weekend.

The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday extended a freeze on Texas' Senate Bill 4. The stay will last until March 18th. During this time, the court will consider whether or not it will allow Texas to enforce the bill, which would make crossing the border illegally a crime.  The first offense would be a misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in jail, and additional offenses could result in a second-degree felony with a punishment of two to 20 years. Texas wants to know, what's the latest on SB4?

The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday extended a freeze on Texas' Senate Bill 4. The stay will last until March 18th. During this time, the court will consider whether or not it will allow Texas to enforce the bill, which would make crossing the border illegally a crime.  The first offense would be a misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in jail, and additional offenses could result in a second-degree felony with a punishment of two to 20 years. Texas wants to know, what's the latest on SB4?

The news of Texas covered today includes:Our Lone Star story of the day: Last night the U.S. Supreme Court blocked the enforcement of Texas Senate Bill 4 which allows the state to arrest illegal border crossers, and more, until the Court decides what it will do with the case. Meanwhile, the great Paul Bedard reports on a Biden program that should shock Americans: Biden secretly dumped 320,000 ‘inadmissible' illegal immigrants into US cities. These are people flying directly into the U.S. from Latin America, not crossing the land border.Our Lone Star story of the day is sponsored by Allied Compliance Services providing the best service in DOT, business and personal drug and alcohol testing since 1995.Anti-Wimp: Alleged thief shot, killed by vehicle owner in San Antonio.More news of school districts and electioneering: Attorney General Ken Paxton Secures Injunction Against Denton ISD for Illegal Electioneering Attorney General Ken Paxton Sues Hutto ISD for Illegal Electioneering  Leftwing Teachers Unions Quietly Spend Millions on GOP Primaries including in Texas.Listen on the radio, or station stream, at 5pm Central. Click for our radio and streaming affiliates.www.PrattonTexas.com

It's Super Tuesday and Kyrsten Sinema is not seeking another term, nor is Michelle Obama. Facebook experienced technical difficulties and Charles Barkley vows to punch Black people if they wear Donald Trump's mugshot. Biden's now shuttled over 320,000 illegal immigrants to a city near you, but the Supreme Court has stayed Texas Senate Bill 4 which would allow them to do something about it. New York Representative Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) gets a taste of her own medicine, and our favorite prosecutor Fani Willis, along with her RICO case against the former president, is in serious trouble. Eric July, Founder of Rippaverse Comics, joins the show. TODAY'S SPONSOR: Pre-Born TO DONATE, DIAL #250 AND SAY KEYWORD “BABY,” OR GO TO https://preborn.com/sara Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Phillips is joined by TPPF's Vice President of Policy, Andrew Brown, and Director of Litigation, Chance Weldon, to discuss Texas Senate Bill 14, which prohibits gender modification procedures for children in the state.

In this episode, Timon Cline interviews Joshua Abbotoy, Executive Director of American Reformer, about his latest article "American Crisis" published in American Reformer. Abbotoy contends that Texas Governor Abbott should adopt the "Old Hickory Option" by posing a credible threat of noncompliance with any federal order restricting the enforcement of Texas Senate Bill 4, which empowers Texas law enforcement secure the border and enforce federal immigration law.   Read "American Crisis" by Joshua Abbotoy: https://americanreformer.org/2024/01/american-crisis/   #AmericanCrisis #BorderCrisis #Immigration #USBorder #SouthernBorder #Texas #GregAbbott #IllegalImmigration   Josh abbotoy is the Executive Director of American Reformer. He is also a Managing Director at New Founding. A seasoned private equity lawyer by background, Josh is the grateful beneficiary of Christian education, having been homeschooled, then earning his B.A. (History) from Union University and an M.A. (Medieval and Byzantine Studies) from the Catholic University of America before earning his J.D. at Harvard Law School. His writing has appeared in American Reformer, the American Mind and the Federalist, among other places. Josh lives with wife and three children in the Dallas, Texas area.   Learn more about Josh Abbotoy's work: https://americanreformer.org/about/ https://www.newfounding.com/about   Timon Cline is the Editor-in-chief of American Reformer. Prior to his appointment as editor-in-chief, he was a deputy attorney general in the Office of the New Jersey Attorney General. He is a graduate of Rutgers Law School and Westminster Theological Seminary, the Director of Scholarly Initiatives at the Hale Institute at New Saint Andrews College, a fellow at the Craig Center at Westminster Theological Seminary, and an opinion contributor at World. His writing has appeared at American Mind, the American Conservative, and Modern Reformation, among others. He is a member of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church and lives in Philadelphia with his wife and son.   Learn more about Timon Cline's work: https://americanreformer.org/about/ ––––––   Follow American Reformer across Social Media: X / Twitter – https://www.twitter.com/amreformer Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/AmericanReformer/ Website – https://americanreformer.org/   Promote a vigorous Christian approach to the cultural challenges of our day, by donating to The American Reformer: https://americanreformer.org/donate/   Follow Us on Twitter: Josh Abbotoy – https://twitter.com/Byzness Timon Cline – https://twitter.com/tlloydcline   The American Reformer Podcast is  hosted by Josh Abbotoy and Timon Cline, recorded remotely in the United States, and edited by Jared Cummings.   Subscribe to our Podcast, "The American Reformer" Get our RSS Feed – https://americanreformerpodcast.podbean.com/ Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-american-reformer-podcast/id1677193347 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/1V2dH5vhfogPIv0X8ux9Gm?si=a19db9dc271c4ce5

On today's show, Mike Slater monologues on the rise of couples who classify themselves as DINKs (Dual-Income, No Kids) and why they'll never be as happy as people who have children. Is that a hot take in 2023? Is parenthood THAT important in today's world?Following that, Texas State Rep. David Spiller (R-68) stops by to talk to Slater about the Texas Senate Bill 4 that effectively bans sanctuary cities in the Lone Star State. What can the rest of our country learn from this powerful bill and are actions like this the proper way to handle illegal immigration in America? Find out with this powerful interview!

On this edition of the Bitcoin Builders Weekly Breakdown, NLW looks at a number of the big stories shaping bitcoin over the past week. He discusses the shutdown of P2P bitcoin marketplace Paxful, coming just months after the closure of Local Bitcoins. He also talks about Texas Senate Bill 1751 and the state-by-state battle for "Right to Mine" legislation.   To join the discussion: bit.ly/breakdownpod Thanks to our sponsor: In Wolf's Clothing // Wolf is the first startup accelerator focused exclusively on Bitcoin and Lightning // Learn more at wolfnyc.com  Bitcoin Builders is produced and hosted by Nathaniel Whittemore. Lead researcher is Scott Hill. Edited by Kyle Barbour-Hoffman. Images by Midjourney. Theme music is "Everybody Dance" by True Ripper, licensed via Track Club. Ad music is "Easy's First Tiger" by Bossfight

A year ago today, Republican Gov. Greg Abbott signed into law Texas Senate Bill 8, also known as the Texas Heartbeat Act. The law bans abortion after about six weeks of pregnancy — before many people even know they're pregnant. It also employed a novel legal strategy that empowered ordinary people to enforce the law by suing anyone who may have helped facilitate the abortion.Many observers thought the law would be blocked from taking effect or overturned after passing. That didn't happen. The Supreme Court had three opportunities to consider the law and didn't, signaling that the court could be open to overturning Roe v. Wade. In the recent uproar over the leaked Supreme Court draft opinion in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, it's been easy to forget about the impact and significance of Texas's law. But a year later the law still stands in the state, blocking abortions after about six weeks. Today on Post Reports, on the anniversary of the Texas abortion ban, national political reporter Caroline Kitchener brings us the story of the activist who helped to craft the law, the doctor who tried to challenge it, and the lessons both sides have taken away from its success.Read more:Caroline Kitchener examines whether a national abortion ban is possible in a post-Roe world. You can also read her profile of Dr. Alan Braid.