On May 15, 2025, the Texas Senate approved a bill to disband the Texas Lottery Commission, transferring its operations to the Department of Licensing and Regulation. The bill awaits the Texas House’s consideration amid controversies over online ticket sales and courier services. The Sunset Advisory Committee will review the lottery’s future, with potential abolition by August 2027.
Texas Senate Bill 17, seeking to bar land sales to citizens of China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia, faces backlash from Asian American communities fearing discrimination. The bill is under legislative review, with ongoing discussions among Texas lawmakers.
The Texas House passed a bill defining gender based on birth-assigned sex, affecting transgender rights by excluding them from state records. Senate Bill requiring insurers to cover detransitioning costs also advances.
The first online-only voting project for overseas Filipinos saw low participation, with only 3.27% of registered voters in Southern California casting votes. This trend of low turnout was evident in consulates worldwide.
Recent data indicates that U.S. citizens in Harris County, Texas, face criminal charges more than twice as often as non-citizens. This analysis, based on records from 2015-2024, highlights differences in crime rates and raises questions about the use of immigration policies in relation to public safety concerns.
Six-year-old Tyrus in Mexia, Texas is hosting a lemonade stand on May 10 to raise funds for his open heart surgery. The community is showing support.
Harris County Commissioner Lesley Briones presented a resolution declaring May as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month during a Commissioners Court session on May 8.
On Friday, Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, will lead his initial mass at the Sistine Chapel following his election by cardinals. The Vatican will broadcast this private mass, where he will give his first homily as the leader of 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide.
Robert Francis Prevost becomes the first pope from the United States, taking the name Leo XIV. His election was marked by a historic gathering at the Vatican, where he addressed tens of thousands in St. Peter’s Square.
Senate Bill 11, allowing voluntary school prayer and Bible readings in Texas public schools, raises constitutional concerns. Proponents emphasize voluntary participation, while opponents argue it might infringe on First Amendment rights. The Texas legislature continues to debate the issue.