SUMMARY: Texas lawmakers are preparing for a legislative session focused on education savings accounts, border security, and property tax reform, all with substantial funding needs. State Comptroller Glenn Hegar will announce the Biennial Revenue Estimate, predicting a large cash balance from the current budget. He anticipated a favorable outlook, noting the Economic Stabilization Fund has reached a record $24 billion. Hegar emphasized the importance of addressing infrastructure demands alongside potential education funding reforms. Lawmakers may discuss implementing education savings accounts, building on previous proposals aimed at aiding specific student demographics. Hegar’s office is expected to manage the program if established.

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SUMMARY: Top-ranked Tennessee defeated Texas 74-70 in a SEC men’s basketball game. Despite Tre Johnson’s 26 points for Texas, Tennessee controlled the glass with a 41-27 rebounding edge and scored 17 second-chance points. Johnson shot 11-for-17 and kept the game close, but Tennessee’s Darlinstone Dubar hit a go-ahead 3-pointer with 3:57 left. The Volunteers’ bench outscored Texas’ 28-9, and their defense limited Texas to 42% shooting. Jahmai Mashack led Tennessee with 16 points, while Zakai Zeigler contributed eight assists. The loss drops Texas to 0-3 in the SEC and 11-5 overall.

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SUMMARY: Texas lawmakers will begin their 89th legislative session on January 14, with over 2,400 bills filed, setting a new state record. Key priorities include education reform, healthcare, immigration, housing, and LGBTQ+ issues. Notable proposals include education savings accounts, bills on border security, and housing affordability measures. Controversial topics like transgender rights and diversity bans in education are also on the agenda. The state’s budget, HB 1, is mandatory for passage, and other proposed laws range from AI regulation to the legalization of sports betting. Despite a busy agenda, a House speaker conflict may slow initial progress.

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