Texas

The number of undocumented immigrants in the U.S. has been declining since 2007; however, there has been an increase in migrants from other Central American countries, most of whom are teenagers. Being poor in Texas: Government assistance documentary, and a firsthand payday loan experience. Renewable energy continues to push forward as the Texas Renewable Energy Conference hits Austin next week.

Take a quick look at some of the top stories across Texas, from a High Plains history lesson to Special Olympics training in Austin, and more...

From High Plains Public Radio in Amarillo and the Panhandle:

• High Plains History: Southern Stage Route

"A major U.S. Highway that runs through Western Kansas (U.S. Hwy. 83) began as a rough trail that connected various boomtowns who were waiting for the railroads that ultimately passed them by."

DALLAS — During his opening remarks Tuesday at a daylong conference on immigration and the economy, former President George W. Bush urged the nation’s leaders to debate immigration reform with compassion and kindness.

In a brief appearance at the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, Bush did not advocate for a specific solution. But his statements indicated he supports policies similar to those he championed during his presidency, when immigration reform was last debated in Congress.

Democratic State Rep. Mike Villarreal filed legislation HB 238, which if passed would amend the Texas Labor Code to provide equal employment protections for gay and transgender employees.

"My question is," said Villareal: "Is this person showing up on time and doing their job? If they are, then they should be treated no differently than anybody else. Unfortunately, the LBGT community doesn't have the same protections in the state of Texas that they enjoy in other states."

Take a quick look at some of the top stories from across Texas, from phony Salvation Army bell ringers in Austin to a formal border crossing opening inside Big Bend National Park, and more...

From High Plains Public Radio in Amarillo and the Panhandle: