School finance judge refuses to recuse himself

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — The judge overseeing Texas’ massive school finance trial has refused to recuse himself despite a motion filed by state attorneys alleging bias, likely further delaying a case that began more than 18 months ago.

Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott’s office has asked Austin-based state District Judge John Dietz to give up the case because of recent emails he and members of his court staff exchanged with attorneys representing the 600-plus school districts that have sued the state.