Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and former staff are reimbursed nearly $900,000 for legal fees following charges by ex-DA Kim Ogg. The case involved alleged misappropriation of COVID-19 funds. Charges against staffers were dropped or set for dismissal. Hidalgo criticizes the charges as political, while Ogg maintains the legitimacy of her investigations into corruption.
The Texas Legislature is considering a proposal to reduce state higher education funding by $400 million. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has indicated that university budgets may face cuts if diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives remain in place. The discussion reflects ongoing debates about the role of DEI in education.
Amtrak is moving forward with plans for a high-speed rail line between Houston and Dallas, inviting industry partners to collaborate on the project. By offering a 90-minute connection between the two cities, the initiative aims to revolutionize travel in Texas. This step marks a significant milestone in the project, highlighting Amtrak’s commitment to modernizing American rail travel. The project, with its potential economic and environmental benefits, is part of a larger vision for a connected and efficient rail network across the U.S.
Thousands of Houston residents are at risk of losing their place on the housing voucher waitlist if they do not respond to an upcoming email from the Houston Housing Authority. The authority has paused issuing new vouchers due to funding constraints since December 2023.
Harris County faces uncertainty as it awaits $600 million in public funds. Delays in crucial public safety, infrastructure, and health services may result if these funds do not arrive. County officials are navigating the impact while state authorities assess the situation.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has called for an investigation into allegations that non-citizens are attempting to manipulate Texas Lottery jackpots. These concerns focus on the bulk purchase of lottery tickets through courier services. The investigation seeks to understand the legality and fairness of these practices within the Texas Lottery system.
Fort Bend County plans to establish a vocational training center at its juvenile detention facility, aiming to offer educational opportunities and skill development for young individuals. This initiative, which could be the first of its kind in Texas, seeks additional funding from the state to enhance its programs. County officials are committed to providing pathways for at-risk youth to gain valuable skills, enabling them to make positive strides toward future employment.
The Communities Aligning Baguio and San Antonio, Texas (CABSAT) delegation participated in the Panagbenga 2025 Parade this February, marking another milestone in the ongoing relationship between Baguio City and its sister city, San Antonio, Texas.
Texas Department of Transportation warns TxTag customers about a surge in text scams claiming overdue toll balances. The agency emphasizes that it does not send text reminders for payments and urges customers to report any fraudulent texts to the FBI or contact TxTag Customer Service for verification.
In 2025, Texas faces its largest measles outbreak in nearly three decades, with 124 confirmed cases. State health officials work to contain the spread as public health efforts intensify. Learn more about the ongoing situation and measures being taken to address this public health challenge.