Texas Republican Leadership Hits Absent Democrats with Financial Penalties and Pay Restrictions

Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows has suspended direct-deposit paychecks and per diem for Democratic lawmakers who left the state to block a redistricting vote. 

Additionally, $500 daily fines are being imposed for unexcused absences, and some office budgets are being cut by 30%. 

Governor Greg Abbott and other Republican officials have threatened legal action, including civil arrest warrants and potential Continues…