Texas News

Harris County spends $3 million on 150 new detention officers to curb overtime

Harris County will spend $3 million to hire 150 detention officers and 25 deputies, addressing mandatory overtime and reducing inmate outsourcing. This initiative aims to enhance staffing at the overcrowded jail, which has faced repeated inspection failures. The new hires are expected to improve operations and cut costs related to the $58 million spent on outsourcing inmates. This investment aims to create a safer, more effective detention environment by the end of 2025.

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Texas Senate approves bill to create state crypto reserve

The Texas Senate has passed a bill to establish a Bitcoin and cryptocurrency reserve to protect against inflation and economic instability. With a 25-5 vote, the bill, now awaiting the governor’s approval, aims to diversify state assets and prepare Texas for future financial challenges. As other states watch closely, Texas positions itself as a leader in digital asset strategies.

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South Texas detention center to reopen for migrant families

The South Texas Family Residential Center in Dilley, the largest immigrant detention facility in the United States, is set to reopen under a new agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the private prison company, CoreCivic. This facility, capable of holding up to 2,400 people, has been a focal point for housing migrant families, primarily from Central America. The reopening marks a continuation of efforts to manage immigration and detention policies, with the Trump administration reviving family detention centers amid mass deportations. The operations of such centers have become a subject of intense scrutiny and debate.

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SpaceX’s Starship launch looms large as Musk faces mounting scrutiny

SpaceX is set to launch its massive Starship prototype from Boca Chica, Texas, amid discussions around Elon Musk’s influence on the U.S. space program. The launch is a crucial step for SpaceX’s ambitious plans for space travel. Meanwhile, Musk’s role in shaping U.S. aerospace policies is both supported for driving innovation and criticized for his significant sway over public projects. The event marks another milestone in private-sector involvement in space missions, positioning SpaceX at the forefront of modern space exploration.

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Houston-area officials push for measles vaccinations amid West Texas outbreak

Houston officials, including Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and Mayor John Whitmire, have urged residents to get vaccinated against measles as a precautionary measure following an outbreak in West Texas with 159 confirmed cases. Although no measles cases have been reported in the Houston area, local leaders emphasize the importance of vaccination to prevent a potential spread. The Texas Department of State Health Services continues to monitor the situation and encourages public vaccination, particularly among unvaccinated individuals.

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TxDOT kicks off campaign to protect college students during spring break

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has launched a new campaign aimed at promoting road safety among college students as they prepare for spring break. The initiative focuses on reducing incidents of impaired driving, speeding, and distractions, encouraging safe travel habits and the use of designated drivers. The campaign will utilize various channels, including social media and campus events, to effectively reach the young audience across Texas.

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Texas Senate committee discusses bill to ban all THC products

The Texas Senate committee is examining a proposed bill to ban all THC products. This controversial legislative move is drawing significant attention and debate as it could impact various industries and consumer rights across the state. The discussion is part of a broader effort to address legal uncertainties surrounding cannabis products in Texas.

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