In Texas, several key developments have been unfolding across various sectors. The state's political landscape is witnessing significant changes, particularly within the Republican Party. A new Texas GOP rule could alter the House speaker's race by barring Republicans who vote against the party's preferred candidate from running in primaries, potentially leading to lawsuits and high-stakes legal drama[2].

On the economic front, the Texas economy continued to expand in August, with employment growth strengthening and the unemployment rate holding steady at 4.1%. The service sector showed moderate growth, while manufacturing output weakened. Retail sales tax collections were relatively flat, and home sales and housing permits fell[3].

In environmental news, projections indicate a dramatic rise in extreme heat, with 100-degree days expected to be nearly four times as common by 2036 as they were in the 1970s and 1980s. The state also faces an increased risk of wildfires, especially in western and southern Texas, and a heightened risk of urban flooding due to more intense severe weather events[4].

The Texas Tribune reported on the ongoing efforts to bring high-speed rail to Texas, which have recently shown signs of life despite consistent roadblocks from state lawmakers. Additionally, pilot projects are exploring the use of treated oilfield wastewater for crop growth, addressing concerns over earthquakes and blowouts caused by underground injection[1].

Looking Ahead:
- The Criminal Jurisprudence Committee plans to issue a new subpoena to a death row inmate for a December 20 hearing if Attorney General Ken Paxton’s office does not cooperate.
- The Texas GOP's new rule faces its first major test in the heated Republican fight for speaker of the Texas House.
- Ongoing environmental challenges, including extreme weather events and water management issues, are expected to remain critical topics in the coming months.

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