To what extent is the Texas state legislature institutionalized? ...

[laurencescou]

To what extent is the Texas state legislature institutionalized? Evaluate in terms of characteristics such as legislative sessions, membership and member turnover, and others. How does it compare to the legislatures of other states?
 
  What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

How has redistricting impacted the Texas state legislature? What significant changes have been made over the past century to ensure equality in representation?
 
  What will be an ideal response?

[emsimon14]

Answer to Question 1

Answer: An ideal response will:
1. Explain the frequency and nature of the Texas legislature's general and special sessions and compare this to other states.
2. Explain the salary and benefits members of the legislature receive, how they are determined, and compare them to other states.
3. Explain the extent to which legislators are career politicians and the extent of turnover in the legislature and compare them to other states.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: An ideal response will:
1. Define and explain apportionment, districting, and gerrymandering, including explaining the process by which Texas draws legislative districts.
2. Identify how Texas districts traditionally overrepresented rural areas.
3. Identify major Court cases on districting and representation.
4. Explain the significance of the Voting Rights Act for redistricting in Texas.