A federal judge has blocked Houston from enforcing its minority-contracting goals, creating immediate uncertainty for city procurement and local contractors.

A new TPOR poll shows Abbott narrowly ahead of Gina Hinojosa, with independents and affordability shaping a tight governor’s race.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has opened MAHA investigations and issued civil investigative demands to major tampon and cosmetics makers over alleged heavy metals and deceptive safety claims.

Harris County’s sheriff’s office is finally building out a new campus at 5910 Navigation. A ceremonial groundbreaking is set for Aug. 17.

A State Auditor review and a 2025 law are prompting Texas to broaden access to state careers by loosening degree requirements and emphasizing skills.

USDA will reopen the Douglas, Ariz. cattle crossing on Aug. 24 under a phased plan tied to Mexico’s screwworm‑control milestones. APHIS says strict inspections will be required.

Texas DPS approved a $4.49M purchase to outfit four Tahoes with Cognyte’s FalcoNet surveillance suite, raising questions about warrants and oversight.

Stafford-based Matrix Metals agreed to pay $1.18M to settle allegations it improperly obtained a Second Draw PPP loan. The deal follows a qui tam complaint and an SDTX investigation with the SBA.

State higher‑ed officials pitched a 60/40 performance funding model that prioritizes degree completion and credit‑hour milestones; campuses could gain or lose millions.

Mayor John Whitmire partnered with the Houston Dynamo and Dash to give away 10,000 free tickets to first-time fans beginning Saturday, aiming to sustain World Cup momentum. Eligible games run through Sept. 26 and tickets will be shared with community groups and youth programs.

Conroe’s city council voted to shelve new reviews of Flock Safety license‑plate cameras, keeping the system in place even as residents demand more transparency. A Texas AG ruling forces the city to release some records.

A Rice University working paper shows wide gaps in municipal pay across Texas; Houston pays the highest per police employee while Austin leads overall personnel spending.

Texas hit a record 14.47M nonfarm jobs in June after adding 43,400 payroll positions, leaving it the top state for monthly gains.