SUMMARY: During the 89th Texas legislative session, lawmakers will review several transportation-related bills. Key proposals include House Bill 1564, capping train lengths at 8,500 feet, and House Bill 483, advocating for high-speed rail linking Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio. In contrast, House Bill 1402 seeks to prohibit state funding for high-speed rail projects. Also proposed are amendments to the State Highway Fund to support transit-oriented projects and clarify funding usage for highway and transit projects through House Bills 58 and 542. Additionally, House Bill 663 aims to limit eminent domain for high-speed rail operations. All measures would take effect in 2025 or 2027.

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SUMMARY: Two law enforcement officers from the Houston area were killed in the line of duty on Wednesday, highlighting Texas’s troubling trend in officer fatalities. Brazoria County sheriff’s Deputy Jesus Vargas was shot while serving a warrant, leading to a manhunt where he was killed by police after he fired at officers. Vargas, a dedicated public servant for 17 years, was remembered for his integrity and community impact. Nearby, Navasota Police Sergeant Mark Butler died in a head-on collision while pursuing a suspect. Texas reported the highest number of officer deaths in 2023, reflecting growing risks faced by law enforcement.

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The post Two Houston area officers killed as Texas leads US in officer deaths | Texas appeared first on www.thecentersquare.com

SUMMARY: Strong Santa Ana winds threatened to ignite more fires in Southern California, prompting utility companies to implement preemptive power shut-offs, leaving thousands without electricity. While anticipated winds of 70 mph haven’t yet arrived, officials stress the ongoing risk. Minimal activity is reported on the Palisades and Eden fires in Los Angeles County. Relief efforts are increasing, with FEMA receiving over 53,000 assistance applications and providing nearly $12 million in aid. Community donations focus on essentials like water and hygiene products, but there is a significant need for housing for those who lost their homes in the fires.

Millions of people across SoCal are facing a critical fire threat as crews try to gain more control over two of the most destructive …

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