1. Chasing Success and Confronting Failure in American Schools
By Larry Cuban
Examines what constitutes educational success in the United States. Argues that American education historically, both in terms of academic achievement metrics and reform efforts, has not been "stable nor consistent." Considers multiple factors that complicate academic success such as politics and policies, social dynamics, school district leadership, and differences in communities.
Harvard Education Press, 2020, 260 pages
363.33 ES74F 2020

 

2. George T. Ruby: Champion of Equal Rights in Reconstruction Texas
By Carl H. Moneyhon
Profiles George T. Ruby, one of the most widely known of the first generation of Black politicians in Texas. Chronicles Ruby's emergence as a political leader, Radical Republican and delegate to the Constitution Convention of 1868, and his election to the Texas State Senate in 1869. Details his legislative priorities in the Texas Senate and his efforts to ensure the protection of basic civil rights of African Americans.
Center for Texas Studies and TCU Press, 2020, 413 pages
976.4 M742G 2020

 

3. The Governor and the Colonel: A Dual Biography of William P. Hobby and Oveta Culp Hobby
By Don Carleton
Chronicles the lives and careers of William P. Hobby and Oveta Culp Hobby. Details their political, journalistic, and public service careers, from William's duties as the 27th Governor of Texas and his success in creating a major media empire to Oveta's role in leading the Women's Army Corps and her subsequent rise on the national stage in a presidential cabinet position. Illustrates how the esteemed husband-and-wife "Hobby Team" had a distinct impact on Texan and American history in politics, journalism, war, and philanthropy across the twentieth century.
Briscoe Center for American History, 2020, 885 pages
976.4 C192G 2021

 

4. South to Freedom: Runaway Slaves to Mexico and the Road to the Civil War
By Alice L. Baumgartner
Examines how thousands from the South Central United States escaped slavery by crossing the southern border into Mexico after the country's abolition of the practice in 1837. Details how political relations between Mexico and the U.S., including Southerners' hopes of annexing Texas and invading Mexico, only fueled a sectional crisis in the United States. Highlights the experiences of individuals from the time, including enslaved persons seeking their freedom.
Basic Books, 2020, 365 pages
973.7115 B348S 2020

 

5. Governor's Budget, 2022-2023
By Texas Governor Greg Abbott
Presents Governor Greg Abbott's budget priorities for the fiscal 2022-2023 biennium, which include investment in healthcare, workforce development and unemployment, public safety, election security and education. Discusses the state's response to the COVID-19 pandemic and suggests specific areas where federal and state funding should be directed to strengthen pandemic relief.
Office of the Governor, 2021, 31 pages
L1800 B859 2022-23G

 

6. Sources of Revenue: A History of State Taxes and Fees in Texas, 1972-2020
By Texas Comptroller's Office
Reviews the history and current status of Texas revenue sources back to 1972 in a easy-to-navigate document. Includes an overview of major taxes, fees, and assessments by subject, along with helpful tables and indexes. Lists major revenue related bills by session. Provides a resource that allows policy makers and the general public access to an often complicated and difficult topic — taxes.
Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, Fiscal Management Division, 2021, 272 pages
C2600.8 SO85 2021

 

1. Essentials of Texas Firearms Law
By Massad F. Ayoob
Reviews the use of firearms and the constitutionally protected rights of gun owners in Texas. Details both federal and Texas firearms laws, licensing practices, federal court cases revolving around the Second Amendment, civil liability, and places where firearms are prohibited.
State Bar of Texas, 2020, 333 pages
363.33 ES74F 2020

 

2. Gerrymandering Texas
By Steve Bickerstaff
Recounts the history of redistricting and gerrymandering in the state of Texas, with emphasis on the role legislative apportionment played in political and demographic power shifts across the state. Comments on key redistricting cases at the state and federal level, with some personal notes on cases worked by Steve Bickerstaff during his long career in Texas politics. Makes recommendations for redistricting Texas in 2021 and for the reduction of gerrymandering practices. Includes an extensive bibliography of Texas redistricting cases broken down by decade.
Texas Tech University Press, 2020, 247 pages
328.73073 B472G 2020

 

3. The Merit Myth: How Our Colleges Favor the Rich and Divide America
By Anthony P. Carnevale
Argues there are extreme inequities in American higher education and that the policies of elite colleges are contributing to the educational divide among students. Addresses bias in testing and admissions, merit-based aid, affirmative action, and how colleges are evaluated. Proposes an assortment of measures to make higher education more fair and provide academic opportunity for all students, including guaranteeing a public K-14 education.
The New Press, 2020, 302 pages
378.1 C217M 2020

 

4. The Starting Line: Latina/o Children, Texas schools, and National Debates on Early Education
By Robert Crosnoe
Studies a large urban school district in Texas to determine how early education programs result in varying degrees of success and failure for children from socially and economically disadvantaged environments. Focuses on the complex connections between classrooms, schools, families, and communities. Examines programs specifically serving Latinas and Latinos to discuss the broader topics of income inequality, academic opportunity, and the changing demographics of the United States.
University of Texas Press, 2020, 167 pages
371.829 C884S 2020

 

5. The Sum of the People: How the Census Has Shaped Nations, from the Ancient World to the Modern Age
By Andrew Whitby
Recounts the history of census taking, with an emphasis on how the collection of quantitative population data has changed the relationship between individuals and the state. Includes chapters on the misuse of population records by the Nazi regime, the connection of censuses to population control strategies, and problems caused by undercounting. Concludes with a discussion of the controversy surrounding the "citizenship question" on the 2020 U.S. census.
Basic Books, 2020, 356 pages
310.9 W581S 2020

 

6. Texas vs. California: A History of Their Struggle for the Future of America
By Kenneth P. Miller
Examines the rivalry between Texas and California as "the leaders of Red and Blue America," both populous and economically powerful states with oil wealth and large Latino populations. Describes how each state constructed opposing, comprehensive policy models, one progressive and the other conservative, through a focus on five areas – tax, labor, energy and environment, poverty, and social issues. Includes a brief preface on the effect of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) on the two states.
Oxford University Press, 2020, 372 pages
306.20973 M615T 2020

 

7. The Trillion Dollar Revolution: How the Affordable Care Act Transformed Politics, Law, and Health Care in America
By Ezekiel J. Emanuel
Compiles the opinions of academics, policy-makers, and doctors on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) ten years after its passage. Includes essays by Democrats and Republicans, as well as legal, financial, and health policy experts. Examines how the ACA has affected the three-trillion-dollar health care sector and the economy, its interaction with the courts, and its influence on American politics. Looks ahead to how the ACA may continue to impact health care reform, including the right to care and drug pricing regulation.
Public Affairs, 2020, 449 pages
368.382 EM11T 2020

 

1. In This Land of Plenty: Mickey Leland and Africa in American Politics
By Benjamin Talton
Explores the life and career of Congressman and former Texas Representative George Thomas "Mickey" Leland. Notes the beginning of Leland's political career in the Texas Legislature and his advocacy for what he called the "People's Bills," before he went on to succeed Congresswoman Barbara Jordan in the U.S. House of Representatives. Focuses on Leland's leadership in bringing an African American perspective to U.S. politics, including his influence on developing foreign policy toward Africa, promoting humanitarianism, and eradicating world hunger.
University of Pennsylvania Press, 2019, 281 pages
328.73 T149L 2019


 

2. A Black Women's History of the United States
By Daina Ramey Berry and Kali Nicole Gross
Profiles Black women and their roles in shaping American culture, society, and politics since the 1600s, including histories of enslaved women, freedwomen, religious leaders, artists, politicians, educators, and activists. Highlights the stories of women within the context of broader historical events, such as exploration and contact in the New World, the Revolutionary War, the Civil War and Reconstruction, and the civil rights and Black Power movements.
Beacon Press, 2020, 298 pages
305.48 B459B 2020


 

3. Black Software: The Internet & Racial Justice, from the AfroNet to Black Lives Matter
By Charlton D. McIlwain
Chronicles African Americans' relationship with computing technology and the Internet. Examines not only how computing technology has been used to contain, profile, and detain Black Americans for decades, but how Black activists used and are using these computing tools and the Internet to build community and engage in a racial justice activism that has been proclaimed by many as the new civil rights movement.
Oxford University Press, 2020, 296 pages
302.23089 M188B 2020


 

4. African Americans in Central Texas History: From Slavery to Civil Rights
By Bruce A. Glasrud and Deborah M. Liles, editors
Presents a collection of essays documenting the experiences of African Americans in Central Texas from the time of slavery through the civil rights marches of the 1960s. Addresses Black Texans' struggle for freedom and racial equality along with the threats, violence, and systemic denials of justice they encountered. Details the life stories of selected enslaved people, soldiers, cattlemen, professionals, politicians, and activists.
Texas A&M University Press, 2019, 316 pages
323.1196 G463AM 2019


 

5. Fault Lines: Portraits of East Austin
By John Langmore, photographer, with Wilhelmina Delco, Michael King, and Johnny Limón
Presents a collection of photographs from 2006 to 2011 documenting East Austin through personal and family portraits, community activities, and cultural landmarks. Illustrates the dramatic changes in demographics, housing, and neighborhoods in East Austin, and fragmentation of African American and Latino families due to gentrification and rising housing costs. Includes an essay by former Representative Wilhelmina Delco, reflecting on the history and importance of the African American community in East Austin.
Maverick Books, 2019, 171 pages
976.431 L267F 2019


 

6. Illusions of Emancipation: The Pursuit of Freedom and Equality in the Twilight of Slavery
By Joseph P. Reidy
Asserts that emancipation was not a single event but rather a complex journey that fundamentally altered ideas about time, space, and home, for all of the peoples of the United States. Describes how the Civil War and Reconstruction generations viewed the drastic changes involved in dismantling slavery, emphasizing the testimonies of formerly enslaved people.
University of North Carolina Press, 2019, 506 pages
305.896 R27IL 2019


 

7. Black Texans: A History of African Americans in Texas, 1528-1995
By Alwyn Barr
Provides an overview of the African American experience in Texas, spanning from the 1528 appearance of the Spanish shipwreck slave, Estevan, through slavery, Reconstruction, and significant gains made in the twentieth century. Discusses each period in terms of political, economic, social, and legal status as well as explaining the violence that occurred at various times. Recommends extensive sources for deeper study.
University of Oklahoma Press, 1996, 294 pages
325.26 B27 1996


 

1. Elderhood: Redefining Aging, Transforming Medicine, Reimagining Life
By Louise Aronson
Examines aging with the goal of changing perceptions and practices in the medical field and giving society a new appreciation for growing old. Draws from anecdotes from the author's personal life and work as a geriatrician, as well as history, science, literature, and popular culture, to provide the perspective that elderhood is simply another unique stage of life with positive and negative facets.
Bloomsbury Publishing, 2019, 449 pages
362.60973 AR67EL 2019


 

2. The Essential J. Frank Dobie
By Steven L. Davis, editor
Gathers in one volume the "most vital" writings of J. Frank Dobie, an environmentalist, civil rights advocate, folklorist, and writer who has been called the father of Texas literature. Includes pieces that inspired readers to action ranging from establishing what would become Big Bend National Park to saving the Texas Longhorn breed of cattle from extinction. Explores his sometimes controversial opinions on serious political topics, as well as more lighthearted matters like cedar fever.
Texas A & M University Press, 2019, 305 pages
818.5209 D297ES 2019


 

3. In Pain: A Bioethicist's Personal Struggle with Opioids
By Travis N. Rieder
Recounts the author's devastating experience with opioid dependence and withdrawal that began with a motorcycle accident, followed by multiple surgeries and poor pain management. Examines the inadequacy of the American healthcare system when it comes to managing pain with opioid therapy. Discusses the history of opioids since their invention in the 1800s, the changing attitudes about pain management, and how to improve the treatment of chronic pain in a manner that helps patients but avoids opioid dependence.
Harper, 2019, 297 pages
362.29 R442IN 2019


 

4. Modernizing the Electric Grid: State Role and Policy Options
By Glen Andersen, Megan Cleveland, and Daniel Shea
Analyzes the current U.S. system of electricity generation, transmission, and distribution, the components of the modern electric grid, and the recent explosion of new technologies, from electric vehicles to energy storage. Recommends policy and regulatory approaches to update the electric grid for a modern energy system. Continues the discussion in an accompanying podcast, Power Play: States Address U.S. Electric Grid.
National Conference of State Legislatures, 2019, 51 pages
Online at: https://www.ncsl.org/Portals/1/Documents/energy/Modernizing-the-Electri-Grid_112519_34226.pdf
343.0929 AN23M 2019


 

5. Redistricting Law 2020
By Michelle Davis, et al.
Explains fundamentals of current redistricting law to assist legislators and their staff with the upcoming redrawing of electoral districts. Addresses ten major legal topics that are applicable to redistricting. Highlights new developments in redistricting law relating to the Voting Rights Act, partisanship, legislative privilege, and population. Includes summaries of each legal topic by chapter, relevant case law from this decade, and historic Supreme Court cases.
National Conference of State Legislatures, 2019, 282 pages
Online at: https://www.ncsl.org/research/redistricting/redistrictinglaw2020.aspx
328.3345 N2135 2020


 

6. Regional Differences in the Drugs Most Frequently Involved in Drug Overdose Deaths: United States, 2017
By Holly Hedegaard, et al.
Studies data from the 2017 National Vital Statistics System-Mortality files to compare drugs most frequently involved in drug overdose deaths, grouped by U.S. Department of Health and Human Services regions. Argues that understanding regional differences of drugs used in overdose deaths could assist prevention and policy efforts.
National Center for Health Statistics, 2019, 16 pages
Online at: https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nvsr/nvsr68/nvsr68_12-508.pdf
362.6 H358 2019


 

1. Biscuits, the Dole, and Nodding Donkeys: Texas Politics, 1929-1932
By Norman D. Brown
Continues the story of Texas politics that the author described in his acclaimed book, Hood, Bonnet, and Little Brown Jug: Texas Politics, 1921 - 1928. Provides a tour of the Texas political landscape during the Great Depression, using the "colorful" political leaders and their backroom deals as a framework for exploring the dominant issues of the early 1930s. Addresses the tension between the federal government and Texas, problems with the state's oil-based economy, and the changing political parties.
University of Texas Press, 2019, 448 pages
976.406 B814B 2019


 

2. Conflict and Cooperation: Reflections on the New Deal in Texas
By Milton S. Jordan, George Cooper, editors
Collects essays illustrating the enduring positive effects of New Deal projects and programs in Texas. Considers the impact of New Deal programs on the visual arts and state parks, as well as on different demographic groups, such as women and African Americans.
Stephen F. Austin State University Press, 2019, 154 pages
976.4 J765C 2019


 

3. Sam Houston and the Alamo Avengers: The Texas Victory that Changed American History
By Brian Kilmeade
Presents a concise, well-researched account of the Texas Revolution, offering insight into the individuals involved and the historical setting. Includes illustrations, maps, notes, and an extensive bibliography.
Sentinel, 2019, 272 pages
976.4 K558S 2019


 

4. Texas Ethics Laws: An Annotated Guide to Lobby and Campaign Finance Laws in Texas
By Andrew Cates
Provides text of the most frequently cited Texas campaign finance and lobby laws along with pertinent primary and secondary sources that illustrate the statutes' applications. Features cross-references to Texas Ethics Commission rules and summaries of numerous Ethics Commission Opinions. Includes relevant Attorney General opinions, case law, and practice notes.
Independently published, 2019, 520 pages
328.33 C283T 2019


 

5. Color Coded: Party Politics in the American West, 1950-2016
By Walter T.K. Nugent
Examines political party allegiance and voting trends for nineteen states in the American West between 1950 and 2016. Considers demographic, economic, and social change, as well as key personalities and issues that have shaped each state's political history. Discusses states with notable shifts, states that have remained reliably devoted to one party, and states that have not been consistently blue or red. Includes chapters on Texas, Oklahoma, California, and Oregon, and an appendix with election returns for the years and states discussed.
University of Oklahoma Press, 2018, 374 pages
324.2730978 N896C 2018


 

6. New, Renamed, and Abolished State Government Entities, 86th Legislature
By Texas Legislative Council
Highlights state government agencies, interagency panels, advisory committees, and other state governmental entities created, restructured, or eliminated by legislation enacted in the 86th Legislature. Provides information about each entity, including the bill number and specific bill sections that contain provisions pertaining to the entity, effective dates, powers and duties of the entity or whether certain functions were transferred to another entity, membership information, and Sunset or expiration dates.
Texas Legislative Council, 2019, 71 pages
Online at: https://tlc.texas.gov/docs/sessions/86GovEntities.pdf
L1400.8 N42 2019


 

7. Summary of Enactments: 86th Legislature
By Texas Legislative Council
Provides summaries of bills and joint resolutions passed by the Texas Legislature in 2019, arranged by subject. Includes bill number, author, sponsor, effective date, and governor's vetoes.
Texas Legislative Council, 2019, 354 pages
Online at: https://tlc.texas.gov/docs/sessions/86soe.pdf
L1400.7 AC27 2019

1. Border Land, Border Water: A History of Construction on the US-Mexico Divide
By C.J. Alvarez
Utilizes the history of construction on the United States-Mexico border, from the 1850s to the present, as a framework to examine the border region. Highlights the ecological diversity of the border and the variety of construction projects, illustrated with archival photos and maps. Considers the environmental, cultural, and political impact of construction and encourages better stewardship of the border.
University of Texas Press, 2019, 301 pages
363.6 AL86B 2019


 

2. The Conservative Sensibility
By George F. Will
Examines the history of American conservatism, framed by the American founding principles of natural rights, limited government, religious freedom, and human virtue and dignity. Contrasts the American political philosophy of Founding Father James Madison with the progressivism of Woodrow Wilson.
Hachette Books, 2019, 600 pages
320.520973 W66C 2019


 

3. Protecting Historic Coastal Cities: Case Studies in Resilience
By Matthew Pelz, editor
Presents an overview of how historic communities in coastal environments are confronting unique challenges, now magnified by the frequency of severe weather events. Brings together experts with diverse backgrounds in historical preservation, public history, environmental science, engineering, and architecture. Explores issues related to coastal living and studies communities that are taking proactive approaches to challenging environments, such as resilient housing initiatives, public infrastructure changes, and pioneering advances in flood protection.
Texas A&M University Press, 2019, 132 pages
333.917 P369P 2019


 

4. Researching Texas Law
By Brandon D. Quarles and Matthew C. Cordon
Instructs readers on how to conduct legal research. Covers case law, statutes, regulations, tracking bills, and compiling legislative histories. Provides research instruction for more practitioner-oriented items also, including: civil jury verdicts and settlements; briefs, records, and oral arguments; attorneys general opinions; and Texas practice materials.
William S. Hein & Co., Inc., 2019, 278 pages
340.09764 Q27R 2019


 

5. Social Media Law in a Nutshell
By Ryan Garcia and Thaddeus A. Hoffmeister
Examines the transformative impact social media is having on various legal areas including marketing, employment, freedom of speech, privacy, criminal law, and beyond. Provides tools for evaluating high-level social media legal risks so they can be avoided, and a framework for developing plans to address them if they occur.
West Academic Publishing, 2017, 421 pages
343.7309 G165S 2017


 

6. Highlights of the 86th Legislature, Vol. I & II
By Senate Research Center
Provides summaries of legislation passed during the 86th Texas Legislature, arranged by subject. Contains a comprehensive index that includes enrolled and vetoed bills. Presents information in a two-volume set.
Senate Research Center, 2019, 717 pages
Online at: https://senate.texas.gov/src-pub.php#highlights
L1803.1 SO44 86H


 

7. Scoot Over: The Growth of Micromobility and Electric Scooters in the South
By Roger Moore
Summarizes the growth of shared micromobility vehicles and their ability to augment public transportation. Discusses problems resulting from the introduction of dockless electric scooters, including regulatory ambiguity, challenges for public safety, and issues with infrastructure. Compares legislation from seven southern states related to the regulation of electric scooters and their operation.
Southern Legislative Conference, Council of State Governments, 2019, 11 pages
Online at: https://knowledgecenter.csg.org/kc/system/files/Micromobility-in-the-South.pdf
388.4 M786S 2019

1. Big Wonderful Thing: A History of Texas
By Stephen Harrigan
Explores the wide range of Texas history, geography, and experience through the eyes of a journalist and novelist. Presents narrative in chapters that read like magazine articles, rich in detail and well-illustrated with photographs, paintings, and maps. Portrays both famous figures and the lesser-known from diverse backgrounds who have impacted Texas' political, economic, and cultural landscape.
University of Texas Press, 2019. 834 pages.
976.4 H235B 2019


 

2. The Geography of Risk: Epic Storms, Rising Seas, and the Cost of America's Coasts
By Gilbert M. Gaul
Investigates the cost of sustaining coastal communities' recurrent experiences of hurricanes, coastal erosion, and flooding. Questions the cyclical pattern of the government annually spending billions of dollars to rebuild damaged coastal housing and infrastructure, while heavily subsidizing flood insurance. Points out the futility of developing barrier islands and other areas that may not be sustainable much longer.
Sarah Crichton Books, 2019. 286 pages.
363.34922 G235G 2019


 

3. The Knowledge Gap: The Hidden Cause of America's Broken Education System--and How to Fix It
By Natalie Wexler
Criticizes the current focus on reading comprehension in American elementary education, which was reinforced by federal No Child Left Behind requirements and standardized testing. Argues that the educational system should focus more on teaching knowledge and critical thinking, including social studies and science, and that this content-focused curriculum should begin at an earlier age.
Avery, 2019. 324 pages.
372.6 W541K 2019


 

4. Love Your Enemies: How Decent People Can Save America from Our Culture of Contempt
By Arthur C. Brooks
Considers the idea that the current atmosphere of intolerance and incivility in the U.S. has created a culture of contempt, allowing us to devalue people who disagree with us. Argues that the seemingly "soft" virtues of love, friendship, and warm-heartedness, are actually the best qualities to achieve real progress in today's mean-spirited political and cultural conversations. Provides strategies on how to "disagree better" when engaging in public discourse with ideological opponents.
Broadside Books, 2019. 242 pages.
320.973 B791L 2019


 

5. Troubled Water: What's Wrong with What We Drink?
By Seth Siegel
Argues that cost containment has been prioritized over public health, leading to drinking water in many United States communities being contaminated with various undesirable chemicals. Explains how known technology and affordable investments in water utilities and private wells could provide Americans with very clean and healthy drinking water.
Thomas Dunne Books, 2019. 330 pages.
613.287 SI15T 2019


 

6. Peg Leg: The Improbable Life of a Texas Hero, Thomas William Ward, 1807-1872
By David C. Humphrey
Details the life of Thomas William Ward, an Irish immigrant and notable public figure in Texas history who was elected chief clerk of the House of Representatives, 1839-1840. Examines his service during the Texas Revolution, including the loss of his leg at the siege of Bexar which resulted in his nickname "Peg Leg." Discusses his terms as land commissioner of the General Land Office and involvement in the Archives War, his three separate tenures as mayor of Austin, and his appointment as the United States consul to Panama. Illustrates Ward's fiery personality and temper, exemplified by his readiness to engage in duels and his difficult marriage and contentious divorce with Susan L. Marston.
Texas State Historical Association, 2009. 340 pages.
327.730092 H884P 2009


 

1. Priced Out: The Economic and Ethical Costs of American Health Care
By Uwe Reinhardt
Suggests that approaches to health care funding depend on how one views distributive social ethics—to what extent better-off members of society should assist poorer and/or sicker members of society. Disagrees with those who assert that Medicare and Medicaid are unsustainable models. Outlines the author's suggested plan, a "social solidarity vs. rugged individualism" model.
Princeton University Press, 2019. 201 pages.
362.1 R275P 2019


 

2. Traveler's Guide to the Firearm Laws of the Fifty States
By J. Scott Kappas
Provides an easy-to-understand reference guide compiling gun-related laws for all fifty states, the District of Columbia, Canada, and Mexico. Includes definitions of important terms and statutory language. Features coverage on vehicle carry of firearms, concealed carry and reciprocity for non-resident licensees, and laws governing possession of all types of firearms. Rates each state for its treatment of firearms, noting any changes in "firearms freedom" from the previous year as well as the reason behind the change.
Traveler's Guide, Inc., 2019. 67 pages.
363.33 T697 2019


 

3. Weather in Texas: The Essential Handbook
By George Bomar
Offers an introductory framework describing how weather functions. Discusses specific weather phenomena such as heavy rains, tornadoes, and hurricanes. Includes numerous charts and maps providing information about average weather conditions and extreme events.
University of Texas Press, 2017. 290 pages.
551.69764 B639W 2017


 

4. Forecasted Size of Measles Outbreaks Associated with Vaccination Exemptions for Schoolchildren
By David Sinclair
Uses 2018 vaccination rates to evaluate the risk of widespread measles outbreaks occurring in Texas due to increased vaccine exemptions. Reports a 5 percent decrease in the vaccination rate was associated with a 40 - 4,000 percent increase in the potential outbreak size. Suggests that vaccination rates are already low enough in some Texas schools to allow for large measles outbreaks in the Austin and Dallas metropolitan areas.
American Medical Association, 2019. 12 pages.
Online at: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2748595
614.47 SI62V 2019


 

5. Health Insurance Coverage in the United States: 2018
By Edward R. Berchick, Jessica C. Barnett, and Rachel D. Upton
Presents statistics on health insurance coverage in the U.S. in 2018 and changes in coverage between 2017 and 2018. Reports more than 5 million (17.7 percent) Texas residents were uninsured last year, compared with 4.8 million (17.3 percent) in 2017.
U.S. Census Bureau, 2019. 44 pages.
Online at: https://www.census.gov/content/dam/Census/library/publications/2019/demo/p60-267.pdf
312.0973 P60HC 2019


 

6. Improving School Safety in Texas
By Governor Greg Abbott
Addresses implementation of recommendations made in the School Safety Action Plan and the subsequent update, both released in 2018 in response to school shooting events in Texas. Discusses strategies for making schools safer and preventing threats in advance. Highlights legislation from the 86th Legislature designed to improve school safety and provide funding for these improvements.
Office of the Governor, 2019. 23 pages.
Online at: https://gov.texas.gov/uploads/files/press/Aug_2019_School_Safety_Update.pdf
G648.8 SCH65 2019


 

7. Texas Safety Action Report
By Governor Greg Abbott
Summarizes plans to address public safety in the wake of recent mass shootings in Texas. Details the Governor's eight executive orders related to reporting and responding to suspicious activity and threats. Recommends steps some state agencies may take in the immediate future, and policy changes the Legislature should consider regarding firearm safety and underlying issues related to schools and students.
Office of the Governor, 2019. 14 pages.
Online at: https://gov.texas.gov/uploads/files/press/Texas_Safety_Action_Report.pdf
G648.8 SA17 2019


 

1. Superpower: One Man's Quest to Transform American Energy
By Russell Gold
Profiles Houston renewable energy entrepreneur Michael Skelly, who helped create the second largest wind energy company in the United States, and later founded Clean Line Energy Partners. Discusses the evolution of the wind energy industry, farmers embracing the new "cash crop," landowners fighting overhead wires, and utility executives seeking to block renewable energy development.
Simon & Schuster, 2019. 319 pages.
333.79 G563S 2019


 

2. Old and Sick in America: The Journey Through the Health Care System
By Muriel Gillick
Illustrates the older patient's experience with the United States' health care system through a series of case studies. Pairs vignettes with data and analysis that reveal influences on health care by pharmaceutical corporations, device manufacturers, health insurance companies, and other outside entities. Reveals the shortcomings of health care for the elderly and suggests patient-centered reform.
University of North Carolina Press, 2017. 300 pages.
362.1084 G414O 2017


 

3. Analyses of Proposed Constitutional Amendments, 86th Regular Session, November 5, 2019, Election
By Texas Legislative Council
Reviews each of the 10 joint resolutions proposing amendments to the Texas Constitution that were enacted during the 86th Texas Legislature. Provides background information, detailed analysis, comments from both supporters and opponents, and the text of each joint resolution to assist voters during the November election.
Texas Legislative Council, 2019. 47 pages.
Online at: https://tlc.texas.gov/docs/amendments/analyses19.pdf
L1400.7 C766 2019


 

4. Condensed Analyses of Proposed Constitutional Amendments, 86th Regular Session, November 5, 2019, Election
By Texas Legislative Council
Provides a one-page analysis for each proposed amendment to the Texas Constitution that will appear on the upcoming November election ballot. Includes a summary analysis, a summary of comments, and comments made by supporters and opponents during the legislative process.
Texas Legislative Council, 2019. 12 pages.
Online at: https://tlc.texas.gov/docs/amendments/analyses19_condensed.pdf
L1400.7 C766C 2019


 

5. Building Bridges to Tomorrow: Summary of Enacted Legislation, 86th Legislature (2019)
By Texas Department of Transportation
Highlights key bills passed during the 86th legislative session that impact the state transportation system as well as daily operations of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). Summarizes each bill and explains the impact on TxDOT. Includes a list of memorial highway designations and an index to bills included in compilation.
Texas Department of Transportation, 2019. 152 pages.
Online at: http://ftp.dot.state.tx.us/pub/txdot-info/sla/86th-legislative-summary.pdf
T1320.8 SU63B 2019


 

6. United States Life Tables, 2017
By Elizabeth Arias and Jiaquan Xu
Analyzes U.S. life expectancy and survivorship statistics by race, Hispanic origin, and sex, based on age-specific death rates in 2017.
National Center for Health Statistics, 2019. 65 pages.
Online at: https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nvsr/nvsr68/nvsr68_07-508.pdf
304.64 UN3D 2019


 

1. How We Did It .... 2016-2019
By Joe K. Longley
Documents Joe K. Longley's service as president of the State Bar of Texas, 2017-2018, and his successful efforts to improve the State Bar, illustrated by campaign materials, election results, interviews, and president's columns. Details Longley's contributions to the Texas Legislature, including his involvement in drafting significant legislation relating to the Insurance, Finance, and Property Codes and as the principal drafter of the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Act (DTPA), which is documented in the Joe K. Longley-Philip K. Maxwell Deceptive Trade Practices Act Collection: Legislative Archive 1973-2001 and the Mark L. Kincaid Papers, 1995-2015 at the Legislative Reference Library of Texas.
Joe K. Longley, 2019. 65 pages.
Online at: https://lrl.texas.gov/scanned/SIRSI/B600.8_L862_2019.pdf
B600.8 L862 2019


 

2. In the Weeds: Demonization, Legalization, and the Evolution of U.S. Marijuana Policy
By Clayton J. Mosher and Scott Akins
Explores the path marijuana has taken on its road to legalization. Addresses the exaggerated arguments and critiques against legalized cannabis. Examines the current and possible future policies on marijuana as both a recreational and medicinal drug.
Temple University Press, 2019. 294 pages.
345.73 M853IN 2019


 

3. Speech Police: The Global Struggle to Govern the Internet
By David Kaye
Examines how dominant American companies Facebook, Google, YouTube, and Twitter moderate content on their digital platforms. Considers who should be in charge of making the rules and policing online speech – whether governments should regulate the internet or let the market self-regulate. Offers recommendations to help governments and companies ensure that online speech benefits from democratic accountability, promotes and protects freedom of expression, privacy of communications, rights of association and assembly, and other values of free societies.
Columbia Global Reports, 2019. 142 pages.
384.334 K182S 2019


 

4. Amazing Texas Girls: True Stories from Lone Star History
By Mary Dodson Wade
Provides biographical sketches on fifteen women who spent most or all of their childhoods in Texas, then went on to shape the state's history. Ranges from pre-statehood to the present day and represents women across cultural, economic, and educational backgrounds.
Lone Star Books, 2018. 247 pages.
YOUNGTEXANS2


 

5. Slavery and Freedom in Texas: Stories from the Courtroom, 1821-1871
By Jason A. Gillmer
Profiles five court cases related to slavery in 19th century Texas. Examines lawsuits involving restitution for the death of a slave by an overseer, a woman set free by her owner's will, attempts to free a woman who "passed" as white, the efforts of a family of free people of color to maintain their land, and the rights of heirs born to an enslaved woman. Details the lives of the individuals affected by each case within the context of Texas' unique history as a frontier slave state. Discusses differing attitudes toward the issues brought forward by the cases, including: interracial marriage, property rights, ownership rights, inheritance, manumission, and social class.
The University of Georgia Press, 2017. 245 pages.
342.764087 G416S 2017


 

6. Final Results of Sunset Reviews, 2018-2019
By Sunset Advisory Commission
Summarizes the actions taken by the 86th Legislature on the 32 entities that were under review by the Sunset Commission. Highlights major changes to the Texas Alcohol and Beverage Commission (TABC), Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), and licensing and regulation. Provides the Sunset bill number, fiscal impact, and final action taken on each of the entities reviewed.
Sunset Advisory Commission, 2019. 66 pages.
Online at: https://lrl.texas.gov/scanned/SIRSI/Final%20Results%20of%20Sunset%20Reviews%202018-2019.pdf
S1500.8 AN79 2019


 

7. Biennial Report, Texas Ethics Commission, 2017-2018
By Texas Ethics Commission
Addresses Ethics Advisory Opinions issued, sworn complaints processed, civil penalties imposed, and statutory changes recommended in 2017-2018.
Texas Ethics Commission, 2018. 47 pages.
Online at: https://www.ethics.state.tx.us/data/legislation/reports/BiennialReport_FY17-18.pdf
E2500.3 B477 2017-2018