SUMMARY: Texas Rep. Nicole Collier is staging a protest by refusing to leave the House chamber after Speaker Dustin Burrows ordered lockdown and restrictions amid a quorum break by Democrats. Collier declined to sign a release allowing police escort, calling it an infringement on her dignity. Democrats labeled her “detained as a political prisoner,” livestreaming her protest with supporters rallying outside. Meanwhile, the Texas House redistricting committee advanced a Republican-favoring map aimed at increasing GOP congressional seats, a move criticized by Collier for undermining her majority-minority district and constituents’ representation. The bill likely proceeds to full House approval.

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SUMMARY: A new study published in *PNAS Nexus* suggests that owning a dog has a larger environmental impact than many realize, ranking as more harmful for climate change than recycling. Researchers found Americans often overrate low-impact actions like recycling while underrating higher-impact ones such as flying less, eating less meat, or not adopting a dog. Pet food production, particularly wet dog food, contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, with dogs and cats consuming about 9% of all farmed animals globally. Researchers stress they are not discouraging pet ownership but highlight ways to reduce impact, such as sustainable pet diets.

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SUMMARY: Texas Democrats face a potential primary clash as redistricting pits Rep. Lloyd Doggett, 78, against Rep. Greg Casar, 36, in Austin. Republicans’ proposed map merges districts, prompting Doggett to urge Casar to run in the new, more conservative 35th district with a 57% Hispanic population. Casar’s team rejects the idea, noting most of his base lies in Austin’s new 37th district. Critics accuse Doggett of clinging to power despite urging Biden to step aside last year. Party strategists warn the fight risks draining resources and dividing Democrats, benefiting Republicans. Latino leaders strongly back Casar, framing Doggett’s push as out of touch.

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