Probe finds UNT built business using bodies of destitute
Sep 17, 2024
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A controversial practice at the University of North Texas raises ethical concerns as it uses unclaimed bodies for research. Meanwhile, a natural gas pipeline fire prompts evacuations in Houston. Texas voters approve significant funding for new power plants, stirring controversy over candidate selection. The political landscape ahead of the upcoming elections shows potential surprises. Additionally, a new book sheds light on the complex role of motherhood along the border.
The University of North Texas Health Science Center unexpectedly halted its business involving unclaimed corpses amid a recent investigation into ethical practices.
Concerns over the vetting process for a $5 billion Texas Energy Fund highlight the need for better oversight and accountability in state projects.
Deep dives
Election Season Dynamics
The upcoming election season in Texas is marked by heightened activity as candidates prepare for the November race. Notably, Donald Trump's firm hold on the state is underscored, with insights suggesting that current campaigning trends reflect an effort to consolidate his support. Additionally, the absence of significant campaigning efforts from other leading figures hints at a predicted outcome where Trump is favored to win. However, the political landscape remains dynamic, and unexpected developments could arise, making the election more competitive than anticipated.
Natural Gas Pipeline Incident
A natural gas pipeline fire in the Houston area has raised serious concerns, resulting in evacuations and ongoing investigations. The blaze, ignited by a vehicle crashing into a valve station, is still being contained, with first responders actively addressing the situation. Although authorities deem the incident isolated and unrelated to terrorist activity, it raises questions about pipeline safety and accountability of Energy Transfer, the company involved. The fire continues to burn, leading to environmental monitoring to ensure air quality remains unaffected.
Changes in UT Austin Admissions Policy
In a significant shift, the University of Texas at Austin has announced that high school students aspiring for automatic admission must now rank in the top 5% of their graduating class, reduced from the previous top 6%. This new benchmark is set to take effect for students aiming for admission in the fall of next year. The change responds to the competitive nature of applications at UT Austin, which has been compounded by a 1997 Texas law mandating automatic admission for the top 10% of high school graduates. The move comes amid ongoing discussions on how best to manage an influx of students and maintain academic standards.
Concerns Over Texas Energy Fund
Texas lawmakers are expressing apprehension regarding the vetting process for projects receiving funding from a $5 billion Texas Energy Fund established to upgrade power plants. One finalist for the funding was recently disqualified due to serious concerns about its leadership; the CEO was previously convicted of an embezzlement scheme related to a power project. Critics are questioning the effective oversight of the Public Utility Commission of Texas, which was responsible for assessing these projects, especially given its smaller staff compared to other regulatory bodies. The situation reflects broader concerns about ensuring responsible and transparent management of state funds aimed at improving energy infrastructure.
A natural gas pipeline fire leads to evacuations in the Houston area. The University of North Texas Health Science Center suddenly suspends its business using unclaimed corpses. Also, Texas voters approved $5 billion dollars to pay for upgrades and new power plants, but now there are concerns about one of the finalists for funding. Plus, Texas is not a battleground state but there could still be some surprises at the ballot box. We’ll explain. And a new book examines the role of motherhood on the border.