New Graduation Law Takes Effect, Yselta School Referendum May Get Second Chance + More Local News

Yselta School Referendum May Get Second Chance

The 451-million-dollar Ysleta Schools bond referendum that was defeated this past weekend may be not be dead, after all.  Superintendent Xavier De La Torre wants to put the bond issue on the ballot again in November, possibly asking for even more money.  He says there's no other option for improving school campuses.

Lawmakers Consider "Pastor Protection Act"

The state Senate today is expected to approve a bill protecting churches and their pastors from lawsuits, if they decline to perform same-sex weddings.  The Texas House is expected to consider its own version of the so-called "Pastor Protection Act."  Texas law currently bans gay marriages, but that could potentially change if the U.S. Supreme Court strikes down such bans in other states.

New Graduation Law Takes Effect

From now on, failing a standardized graduation test won't automatically keep Texas high school students from receiving a diploma.  Governor Abbott has signed legislation giving students another option.  Special panels will consider those students on a case-by-case basis, with the authority to override the test results.  Abbott says students shouldn't be penalized by what he called "evolving testing standards."

El Paso Man Headed to Hall of Fame

An El Paso real estate executive has been named to the Texas Business Hall of Fame.  Woody Hunt will be inducted during a ceremony in October.  Hunt is also a part owner of the El Paso Chihuahuas minor league baseball team.

Zoo Needs Name For Baby Orangutan

The El Paso Zoo needs your help.  They're trying to choose a name for their new baby orangutan.  The four possibilities are "Eko," "Khaleesi," "Moki" and "Pohon."  You can read more about the names on the zoo's Facebook page.  Voting will be open until June 19th.