New & Noteworthy List for October 2024

Investigates the obstacles that many students face when they transfer from community colleges to universities. Analyzes results of a six-year study conducted on transfer-intending students in two Texas community college districts. Discusses how universities have created barriers to the student-transfer pathway, including uneven information access; inconsistent and ambiguous transfer criteria; and credit loss. Calls for changes at the university and state government levels to facilitate easier and more equitable transfers between institutions.

Compiles a collection of essays by 78 experts on core concepts of Texas water resources and laws, along with recent developments and issues. Covers a variety of topics, including water rights; surface water and groundwater issues; flood management; water utilities; water districts; climate change; and the economics of water.

Chronicles the last decade of Roe v. Wade before it was overturned in 2022. Investigates the rise of conservative political and religious campaigns to restrict abortion access, and the failure of reproductive rights advocates to recognize and effectively respond to the threat to abortion rights. Mentions former State Senator Wendy Davis and her filibuster against SB 5, 83rd Legislature, 1st C.S., along with former Texas Governor Ann Richards and her daughter Cecile Richards. Includes a chapter on the passage of the Texas Heartbeat Act (SB 8, 87th Legislature, R.S.).

Contends that the U.S. Constitution should be replaced because it has contributed to the nation’s current political polarization and dysfunction. Argues that due to the Constitution’s inherent flaws—its treatment of race, dependence on the Electoral College, an unrepresentative Senate, and the influence of the Supreme Court—it is a threat to American democracy. Suggests that if the political climate continues to degrade and the Constitution is not changed, the U.S. may be on the path to various forms of secession.

Documents the experience of a school librarian in Louisiana while facing book challenges relating to LGBTQ+ issues and racism. Describes recent events relating to book banning; censorship; and intellectual freedom in U.S. libraries, including in Llano, Texas.

Offers a collection of memoir essays on the personal and political experiences of former State Senator Carl Parker. Details the workings of being a legislator through anecdotes from his time in the Texas House of Representatives (1962-1977) and the Texas Senate (1977-1995). Highlights legislative processes; goals; and accomplishments through stories of his committee work; the Killer Bees; repealing antiquated laws; and passing major statewide legislation. Includes an appendix of legislation passed with Carl Parker as the primary author for the 58th through 73rd Legislatures.