The U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is set to lay off approximately 6,000 employees, about 6% of its workforce, in a move announced Thursday by Christy Armstrong, the agency’s director of talent acquisition.
North Texas experienced an unprecedented cold spell as an Arctic blast shattered an 86-year-old cold temperature record. The sudden drop in temperatures affected the region, impacting daily life and prompting safety advisories.
A Texas official is urging the removal of low-cost broadband requirements tied to federal funds. Texas is set to receive over $3 billion from the federal government to expand internet access, but the official argues that existing federal guidelines make it difficult for providers to offer affordable services. This news story delves into the details of this proposal and explores the potential implications for broadband expansion in Texas.
TxDOT has closed the TEXpress lanes in North Texas due to an incoming cold front bringing wintry weather. This decision, aimed at ensuring road safety, affects major highways in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Drivers are advised to exercise caution, use alternative routes, and stay informed. TxDOT crews are actively treating roads as part of their winter weather response plan. Stay updated through TxDOT’s platforms for real-time road condition alerts and notifications.
Houston is experiencing a severe flu season, with significant illness and hospitalizations reported across the region. With more than 900 deaths related to pneumonia and influenza in a 16-county area, local health officials are urging residents to take preventive measures. The spread of H5N1 avian influenza, although still low risk to the general public, raises additional health concerns. Health experts emphasize vaccination and proper hygiene as key preventive measures.
A North Texas lawmaker introduces a bill to dismantle the Texas Education Agency and eliminate the STAAR test, aiming to overhaul the state’s educational assessment systems.
Dallas introduces a pioneering EMS pilot program equipping two ambulances with donor blood for trauma patients. The initiative, backed by local hospitals and blood banks, aims to improve emergency responses and patient outcomes. Paramedics receive specialized training to administer transfusions en route to hospitals, potentially revolutionizing trauma care. The program seeks to reduce fatalities from rapid blood loss, offering a model for other regions. Evaluation will determine its success and wider application. This project exemplifies innovation in emergency medical services, ensuring swift and effective treatment for critical cases.
Texas Senate proposes two bills, labeled as “Jocelyn’s law,” that would deny bail to individuals without legal status if charged with a felony. Introduced by Senator Joan Huffman, these bills stir debate on potential racial profiling and increased pre-trial detentions. A final decision will be made by Texas voters.
University of Houston students organized a protest demanding enhanced safety measures following recent incidents, including a sexual assault and multiple robberies. The demonstration calls for the university’s board to prioritize student security.
Texas Senators have introduced SB 4, a bill aiming for the largest property tax exemption in state history. Proposing a total relief increase to $140,000, it promises significant financial easing for homeowners. While supporters praise the move, critics express concerns about its impact on local revenue and sustainability. The bill has sparked widespread debate, and its progression is closely watched by legislators and citizens alike. SB 4’s outcome will have substantial implications for Texas homeowners and the state’s fiscal landscape.