Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed Senate Bills 4 and 23 and House Bill 9, aiming for statewide property tax cuts. These bills require voter approval in November and are intended to provide financial relief to homeowners, seniors, and small business owners.
The Texas Department of Public Safety evacuated the Texas Capitol in Austin after receiving a credible threat against state lawmakers. The threat prompted increased security measures and a comprehensive investigation.
Thousands gathered peacefully in Houston for the “No Kings” protests. Despite concerns, the event unfolded without incident, focusing on civil liberties and opposing undemocratic policies.
Houston Texans safety Jimmie Ward has been arrested for allegedly assaulting his fiancée in Montgomery County, Texas. Charged with a third-degree felony, Ward faces up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. The Texans are gathering information on the incident.
Houston Mayor John Whitmire announced a traffic safety initiative targeting reckless driving on I-45 and I-69/U.S. 59. The initiative, involving the Houston Police Department and Texas Department of Public Safety, issued about 300 citations during the initial enforcement phase and aims to address road rage and improve safety.
Houston ISD’s state-appointed board of managers approved a five-year contract extension for Superintendent Mike Miles, following reports of improved STAAR exam results and praise from Texas Education Agency Commissioner Mike Morath. Houston ISD will continue under state oversight, ensuring progress during the intervention period.
Houston ISD’s 2023 STAAR results show improved performance in reading and math for grades 3-8, except for fifth-grade math, which maintained last year’s levels.
Harris County jury sentenced Oscar Rosales to death for the 2022 shooting of Cpl. Galloway during a traffic stop. Rosales, convicted of capital murder, is the second person in two months to receive the death penalty in the county, reflecting serious crime deterrence efforts.
The City of Houston and Harris County are in a disagreement over the allocation of $8 million for homelessness services. Harris County clarifies that the funds are not explicitly for the Mayor’s Homelessness Action Plan, contrary to the City of Houston’s claims, highlighting differing perspectives on addressing homelessness.
The Houston City Council has extended the citywide graffiti abatement program for up to 10 years, continuing its partnership with the Greater East End Management District. The program, which began in 2015, focuses on maintaining clean public spaces by removing graffiti from parks, recreation, general services, and public works departments. This extension underscores the city’s ongoing commitment to urban cleanliness and public safety.