At an Austin hearing, private vendors promised fast sterile‑fly production while USDA officials said X‑ray sterilization needs more testing. The clash could shape how quickly ranchers are protected.

A city audit found seven Austin Energy workers used city trucks as personal commuter vehicles, costing taxpayers about $37,300 and prompting tighter oversight.

Mike Collier sued to overturn Texas' independent‑candidate petition rules, arguing the 1% signature floor and 30‑day post‑runoff deadline make independents' bids impractical.