"Never discuss politics or religion in polite company." Like so many quotes often attributed to Mark Twain, this one is of dubious provenance. Still, generations of otherwise loquacious Texans took it as gospel. But in recent years, the politest of companies (and by companies, I mean businesses) have found it in their best interest not to remain silent on such subjects, especially as religion and politics have increasingly intermingled to produce policies few individuals can bear to sit out. Indeed, more and more consumers are demanding that companies take stands on issues that are forefront in the Texas Legislature – from transgender rights to issues of human rights and social justice. But just the other day, we spoke with a writer for ADWEEK who noted that despite the passage of Texas' new abortion bill, which has the potential to affect the rights of more than half the population, companies appear very reluctant to come forward . She reckoned part of the reason for this was that companies didn't want to alienate potential customers, and were not being sensitive to growing demands from their own workers to take a stand. That relative silence appears to be changing. As of this writing, at least 50 companies with over 320,000 workers and some $20 billion in revenue, have lined up against the law. Some have promised to help employees if they are sued under the unusual enforcement provision of the abortion law. Others have threatened boycotts or potentially a move to other states. At present, Gov. Greg Abbott and Texas Republican lawmakers are doubling down. This week, Gov. Abbott signed a bill that makes the use of abortion-inducing drugs seven weeks into a pregnancy a crime. Meanwhile, abortion opponents have filed at least two lawsuits against San Antonio Dr. Alan Braid, after writing in the Washington Post that he performed an abortion in violation of the law and hoped he would be taken to court "to make sure that Texas didn’t get away with its bid to prevent this blatantly unconstitutional law from being tested.” You can learn more on this story and the rest of what's making news in Texas and beyond at the links below. Until next Wednesday, we'll see you on the radio.

- David Brown

Work safe, Texas. Texas Work Comp Insurance

All Eyes Are On The City of Del Rio, As Haitian Migrants Seek Asylum At Bridge

The city has been bombarded with several law enforcement agencies, making many civilians “feel like they’re in a movie.”

Why Few Big Brands Have Spoken Out About Texas’ Restrictive New Abortion Law

Companies have spoken to support the Black Lives Matter movement and transgender rights. So why have so few well-known brands spoken out about Texas’ new abortion law?

Biden Pledges To Protect Workers From Dangers Of Extreme Heat

The move comes after an investigation revealed a steep rise in preventable worker deaths from high temperatures.

Republicans Have More Power In The Redistricting Process Than Ever

With less federal oversight, the party in power can draw maps more freely than before. But those maps are still likely to end up in court.

Houston Housing Director Fired After Accusing Sylvester Turner Of Awarding $15 Million To Favored Developer (Houston Public Media)
Dallas Budget Proposes $1.2 Million To Reduce 911 Wait Times (KERA)
City Approves Austin City Limits' COVID Safety Plan, Setting Up Final Approval Ahead Of The Festival (KUT)
Sales Tax Figures Show Big Cities On Mend From Pandemic (Texas Public Radio)

Understanding the Texas legislature can be intimidating, so it’s my job as a reporter for KERA North Texas to make it easier to comprehend. Previously, I’ve broken down bills and laws like the Republican-dubbed constitutional carry bill, prison conditions and policy surrounding the winter storm earlier this year. Now, for the next thirty days, I’ll be covering this third special legislative session on redistricting , amongst other things. Texas demographers and policy experts say this process will be politically contentious, as it has been in the past. Lawmakers have already seen accusations of racial gerrymandering, and a lawsuit filed by two Democrats at the capitol. Also on this session's agenda is allocating $16 billion in COVID-19 relief funds, and barring transgender student athletes from participating in sporting events that align with their gender identity. Covering Texas politics has always been a thrilling experience for me, and I can’t wait to share more of my reporting with our listeners! Feel free to share tips, memes and dog pictures on Twitter, Instagram or by email: [email protected].

- Haya Panjwani
@hayapanjw

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