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Illegal Alien & Wife Who Scammed Elderly & Others Out of More than $3 Million Sentenced to 15 Years

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Illegal Alien & Wife Who Scammed Elderly & Others Out of More than $3 Million Sentenced to 15 Years
An illegal alien from Nigeria and his wife have both been sentenced for operating a nationwide fraud ring that targeted elderly victims and other vulnerable populations using romance scams and other financial schemes. Image for illustration purposes
An illegal alien from Nigeria and his wife have both been sentenced for operating a nationwide fraud ring that targeted elderly victims and other vulnerable populations using romance scams and other financial schemes. Image for illustration purposes

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U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

HOUSTON — An illegal alien from Nigeria and his wife have both been sentenced for operating a nationwide fraud ring that targeted elderly victims and other vulnerable populations using romance scams and other financial schemes.

The investigation that exposed and dismantled the scheme was conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations Houston.

Darlington Akporugo, a 47-year-old illegal alien from Nigeria, and his wife Jasmin Sood, a 37-year-old Houston resident, were sentenced June 24 to 188 months and 121 months in prison, respectively, for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud. Akporugo pleaded guilty earlier this year on Feb. 28, while Sood pleaded guilty Dec. 17, 2024. Both must also serve three years of supervised release following their sentences and are required to pay full restitution of $3,123,073.

“Romance scams and other financial schemes like this exploit our nation’s elderly and vulnerable populations out of their hard-earned retirement savings and other critical funding that they need to survive,” said HSI Houston Special Agent in Charge Chad Plantz. “As a result, they are often left emotionally devastated and financially ruined with limited options for recovery once the money has been laundered out of the U.S. Thanks to the courage of the victims in this case who came forward quickly to report it to law enforcement, we were able to successfully track down the two criminals responsible and hold them accountable before they could take advantage of additional victims.”

At the hearing, four victims testified about the couple’s persistent lies and false promises, which led them to send large sums of money. One victim told the court how the pair coerced her into buying a luxury vehicle and renting a mansion for them. Authorities arrested the couple while they were driving the victim’s vehicle and living in her rented home. In handing down the sentence, the court described the scheme as heartless and far-reaching, noting Akporugo and Sood deliberately targeted older women, including several widows.

Akporugo admitted to leading the long-running romance scheme based in Houston that targeted victims from Chicago to Kentucky. He and others lured victims through online romances and convinced them to send money to bank accounts he controlled. Sood created fake businesses and bank accounts under aliases and used disguises to deposit the funds.

To carry out the scheme, Akporugo and his co-conspirators used fake names on social media to gain victims’ trust and persuade them to invest in nonexistent businesses or provide funds for invented personal circumstances. Akporugo admitted to directing victims — mostly older individuals — to send money through platforms like Facebook. The funds were spent extravagantly or passed to co-defendants.

He also admitted to having victims open lines of credit in his name and, in one case, having the victim purchase a luxury vehicle for his personal use. Authorities identified over 25 victims during the multiyear scheme.

Losses from the fraud ring’s operation total more than $3 million.

Both will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Carter prosecuted the case.

For more news and information on how ICE HSI combats financial crimes and other transnational criminal activity in Southeast Texas follow us on X at @HSIHouston.

Information source: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

Helping Children Navigate Big Emotions During Severe Weather, June 28th

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Helping Children Navigate Big Emotions During Severe Weather, June 28th
 With hurricane season well underway, the Office of Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez is proud to announce, "Through the Storm with Sunny - Helping Little Hearts Weather Big Emotions," an engaging and educational children's program designed to help young minds process the stress and emotions brought on by severe weather events. Image courtesy of Hidalgo County
 With hurricane season well underway, the Office of Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez is proud to announce, “Through the Storm with Sunny – Helping Little Hearts Weather Big Emotions,” an engaging and educational children’s program designed to help young minds process the stress and emotions brought on by severe weather events. Image courtesy of Hidalgo County via The City of McAllen

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McALLEN, Texas – With hurricane season well underway, the Office of Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez is proud to announce, “Through the Storm with Sunny – Helping Little Hearts Weather Big Emotions,” an engaging and educational children’s program designed to help young minds process the stress and emotions brought on by severe weather events. The program, in partnership with Hidalgo County Office of Emergency Management and Tropical Texas Behavioral Health, kicks off June 28 at 11:00 AM at the McAllen Public Library and will tour various city libraries across Hidalgo County throughout the summer.

Image courtesy of Hidalgo County via The City of McAllen

Led by a lovable puppet named Sunny, this interactive show takes children on a playful and thoughtful journey through story time, guided conversations, and hands-on activities. “Through the Storm with Sunny” is designed to build emotional awareness, foster family connections, and provide simple tools to stay calm during emergencies. Each child will leave with a no-cook snack they create themselves and a free take-home booklet filled with tips, coloring pages, and activities. Additionally, parents will be provided with various tips and resources to deescalate emotions in their children that can be experienced during severe weather. 

“Our children deserve resources to help them feel safe and understood during the challenges that storms and emergencies bring, ” said Cortez. “This program reflects our commitment to the well-being of every member of our community, especially our youngest.”

The City of McAllen, hosting the inaugural event, has been a crucial partner in launching this effort. “We are honored that McAllen Public Library will host the launch of Through the Storm with Sunny, a thoughtful initiative that focuses on helping our youngest residents cope with the stress and anxiety caused by major storms and disasters,” said McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos. “By supporting their mental health and resilience, we help our children and families feel safer and more prepared. I commend Hidalgo County for bringing this important program to our community.”

DETAILS
What:   “Through the Storm with Sunny” Puppet Show
When:   Saturday, June 28, 2025 at 11 a.m. 
Where:  McAllen Public Library, 4001 N 23rd St, McAllen, TX 78504

Information source: Hidalgo County and The City of McAllen

Gearing Up for Giving: From Classrooms to Communities, Annual Back-to-School Drive in Full Effect

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Gearing Up for Giving: From Classrooms to Communities, Annual Back-to-School Drive in Full Effect
Tools for School — Lone Star National Bank’s Annual Back to School Drive is officially underway! From now through July 23, 2025, community members are invited to donate new school supplies at any LSNB location or participating non-profit partner site in the Rio Grande Valley and San Antonio. Your donations—backpacks, notebooks, crayons, pencils, and more—will help local students start the school year with the tools they need to succeed. Together with our amazing nonprofit partners, we’re building brighter futures across South Texas! Image courtesy of Lone Star National Bank. Bgd for illustration purposes
Tools for School — Lone Star National Bank’s Annual Back to School Drive is officially underway! From now through July 23, 2025, community members are invited to donate new school supplies at any LSNB location or participating non-profit partner site in the Rio Grande Valley and San Antonio. Your donations—backpacks, notebooks, crayons, pencils, and more—will help local students start the school year with the tools they need to succeed. Together with our amazing nonprofit partners, we’re building brighter futures across South Texas! Image courtesy of Lone Star National Bank. Bgd for illustration purposes

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Rio Grande Valley/San Antonio, TX – Lone Star National Bank’s (LSNB) Annual Back to School Drive has begun and community members are welcome to participate by dropping off supplies at local banking centers. The drive has been taking place for more than 15 years at LSNB and will run from now through July 23rd, 2025. 

With support from employees, customers, and community partners, the drive provides essential school supplies to children in need across South Texas, ensuring they are equipped for a successful start to the new school year. LSNB invites gift-givers to donate any of the following essential school supplies to support students in all grades: Backpacks, Notebooks, loose-leaf paper, pens, pencils, glue sticks, scissors, crayons, colored pencils, markers, erasers, rulers, and sharpeners. 


Donations will be distributed through partnerships with local non-profit organizations, such as CASA of Hidalgo County, the Children’s Advocacy Center, Monica & Maggie’s House, and St. PJ’s Children’s Home in San Antonio. 

“We are deeply committed to giving back to the communities where we live and serve,” said S. David Deanda, Jr., President of LSNB. “We are sincerely grateful to everyone who joins us in this effort. Your generosity creates a meaningful and lasting impact in the lives of local children, helping them start the school year with confidence and hope.”


LSNB encourages the community to get involved and share their participation on social media using the hashtags: #WeAreLSNB #TheValleysBank #CommittedToServingYou #BacktoSchoolDrive

Hidalgo County DA Encourages Students to Lead with Passion and Purpose

Roberto H. Gonzalez
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Hidalgo County DA Encourages Students to Lead with Passion and Purpose
Hidalgo County District Attorney Toribio “Terry” Palacios delivers a heartfelt address during the McAllen Housing Commission Scholarship Ceremony, urging students to pursue their passions and overcome obstacles with resilience. Image by Roberto Hugo González
Hidalgo County District Attorney Toribio “Terry” Palacios delivers a heartfelt address during the McAllen Housing Commission Scholarship Ceremony, urging students to pursue their passions and overcome obstacles with resilience. Image by Roberto Hugo González

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By Roberto Hugo González

During the McAllen Housing Commission Scholarship Ceremony, Hidalgo County District Attorney Toribio “Terry” Palacios delivered an encouraging and heartfelt message to students and families gathered to celebrate academic success. Now serving as the county’s top prosecutor, Palacios brought personal experience and professional insight to his remarks, urging students to pursue careers with passion and resilience.

Twelve of the fifteen McAllen Housing Commission scholarship recipients proudly display their certificates, which were awarded in recognition of their academic achievements and presented under the leadership of Chair Elva Cerda and Executive Director Rudy Ramirez. Image by Roberto Hugo González

Addressing the crowd, Palacios congratulated the 15 scholarship recipients and thanked their parents for their dedication. He shared his own story of growing up as the youngest of 12 children in a working-class family. He described how his father relied on his labor in the fields as a source of income. That early experience under the hot sun motivated him to pursue a different path through education.

Palacios emphasized the importance of finding meaningful work. “You have to desire to do what you do,” he said. “Love what you do. Life will have many obstacles, but anything that doesn’t break you will make you stronger.” He pointed to examples like McAllen City Commissioner Joaquin “JJ” Zamora and business leader Alonzo Cantu as individuals who lead with purpose and discipline.

Reflecting on his legal career, which includes 30 years of practicing criminal defense before running for DA, Palacios stressed the value of showing up early, working hard, and supporting those around you. “If our prosecutors are in court, I’m with them,” he said. “I love what I do, and that’s what you need to do—find what you love and give it your all.”

He closed by reminding students that help is always within reach. Whether they need advice, mentorship, or someone to listen, Palacios encouraged them to reach out to community leaders and family. “We are a community, and you are part of it. Congratulations again.”

His message inspired and reminded us that anything is possible with determination, support, and a commitment to our goals.

Palacios, sworn in as District Attorney on January 2, 2023, was elected in November 2022. Before becoming DA, he served 27 years as the Municipal Court Judge for the City of Edinburg. His long-standing public service has made him a well-known figure in the region, and his transition into the DA role marks a continued commitment to justice and community leadership.

See related stories:

Lessons from Alonzo Cantu Rooted in Humility, Rising Through Education
Commissioner JJ Zamora Inspires Students at Scholarship Ceremony
Commissioner Ellie Torres Speaks to Local Scholarship Students

U.S. Border Patrol’s Mock Rescue Demonstration During Annual Border Safety Event

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U.S. Border Patrol’s Mock Rescue Demonstration During Annual Border Safety Event
U.S. Border Patrol Big Bend Sector, Special Operation Group and U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations conduct a simulated rescue of an illegal alien in distress during a border safety event in Marfa, Texas, that highlighted the dangers of trusting Mexican Cartel smugglers and illegally crossing the border in the harsh deserts of the West Texas region. (Photo Credit: U.S. Border Patrol)
U.S. Border Patrol Big Bend Sector, Special Operation Group and U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations conduct a simulated rescue of an illegal alien in distress during a border safety event in Marfa, Texas, that highlighted the dangers of trusting Mexican Cartel smugglers and illegally crossing the border in the harsh deserts of the West Texas region. (Photo Credit: U.S. Border Patrol)

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MARFA, Texas – The U.S. Border Patrol, Big Bend Sector, hosted mock rescue demonstration as part of its annual Border Safety Event.

(Photo Credit: U.S. Border Patrol)

The initiative aims to raise awareness about the dangers of illegally crossing the border and to highlight the life-saving capabilities of the U.S. Border Patrol.

This year’s scenario simulated a group of illegal migrants activating a rescue beacon in a remote area in Big Bend sector area of responsibility. The demonstration involved a coordinated rescue operation conducted by the Special Operations Group (SOG) and the Air and Marine Operations (AMO), Alpine Air Branch.

(Photo Credit: U.S. Border Patrol)

The mock rescue is designed to underscore the life-threatening risks associated with illegal border crossings and to showcase the critical capabilities of Border Patrol’s search and rescue units and aviation assets. The Border Safety Initiative seeks to inform and deter dangerous attempts to cross the border through unforgiving terrain.

(Photo Credit: U.S. Border Patrol)
(Photo Credit: U.S. Border Patrol)

Information source: US Border Patrol

City of Edinburg Secures Additional $10 Million in State Funding for South Texas International Airport

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City of Edinburg Secures Additional $10 Million in State Funding for South Texas International Airport
This new investment builds on a previous $10 million appropriation secured during the 88th Legislative Session—bringing the total state commitment to the airport to $20 million over the past two budget cycles. Image courtesy of The City of Edinburg
This new investment builds on a previous $10 million appropriation secured during the 88th Legislative Session—bringing the total state commitment to the airport to $20 million over the past two budget cycles. Image courtesy of The City of Edinburg

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EDINBURG, Texas –The City of Edinburg is proud to announce that the State of Texas has once again recognized the strategic importance of the South Texas International Airport by allocating an additional $10 million in funding during the 89th Texas Legislature. This new investment builds on a previous $10 million appropriation secured during the 88th Legislative Session—bringing the total state commitment to the airport to $20 million over the past two budget cycles.

The City of Edinburg extends its sincere appreciation to Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa and Chairman Terry Canales for their tireless advocacy and leadership. Their support ensured this critical line item was included in Senate Bill 1 and ultimately signed by Governor Greg Abbott as part of the state’s biennial budget. City officials also expressed their gratitude to Governor Abbott for his continued commitment to South Texas and for recognizing the airport’s role in strengthening statewide infrastructure, security, and emergency preparedness.

Edinburg Mayor Ramiro Garza Jr. Courtesy image

“This continued investment in our airport is a testament to the vision and support of our state leaders,” said Edinburg Mayor Ramiro Garza Jr. “Senator Hinojosa and Chairman Canales have championed a facility that is not only essential to our region’s development, but also to the security and preparedness of the entire southern corridor of Texas.”

The $10 million secured during the 88th Legislature funded the design and engineering for essential upgrades, including:

Replacement of lighting and other visual navigation aids
Drainage improvements and elevation enhancements to the midfield runway
Design and engineering preparations for a 1,000-foot extension of the runway and associated taxiways

The new $10 million allocation from the 89th Legislature will now fund the actual pavement construction of the runway and taxiway extensions, along with other key infrastructure improvements that enhance the airport’s safety, operational capacity, and regional readiness.

The South Texas International Airport serves as a vital aviation and data transfer hub for Operation Lone Star and functions as a central emergency staging area for the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) during natural disasters such as hurricanes and severe storm events.

It also supports the ongoing operations of numerous local, state, and federal agencies, including:
Texas Department of Public Safety – Aircraft Division
U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Texas Game Wardens – Aircraft Division
U.S. Border Patrol – Air and Marine Operations

Due to its secure facilities and operational privacy, the airport is frequently used for high-level VIP arrivals and departures, including visits from the President of the United States, First Lady, and members of Congress. It also serves as a secure site for media staging during major events impacting the region.

“This airport continues to grow as a centerpiece in Texas’s collective effort to strengthen our frontlines,” added Mayor Garza. “With these latest investments, we are better prepared to support our law enforcement, military, emergency response professionals, and the residents we all serve.”

Abbott Directs TWPD, TAHC to Establish Texas New World Screwworm Response Team

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Abbott Directs TWPD, TAHC to Establish Texas New World Screwworm Response Team
Governor Greg Abbott directed the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) and the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) to establish a joint Texas New World Screwworm Response Team following the recent northward spread of the New World screwworm (NWS). Image for illustration purposes
Governor Greg Abbott directed the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) and the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) to establish a joint Texas New World Screwworm Response Team following the recent northward spread of the New World screwworm (NWS). Image for illustration purposes

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AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott directed the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) and the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) to establish a joint Texas New World Screwworm Response Team following the recent northward spread of the New World screwworm (NWS). 

“The recent northward spread of the New World screwworm from Central America into southern Mexico poses a serious threat to Texas livestock and wildlife,” reads the letter. “To proactively address this threat, I am directing the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the Texas Animal Health Commission to jointly establish a Texas New World Screwworm Response Team. The mission for the Response Team is clear: to lead Texas’ prevention and response efforts and ensure that Texas remains informed, prepared, and aligned to prevent the re-emergence of this destructive parasite. We stand ready to protect our land, livestock, and wildlife.”

Read the Governor’s letter to TPWD and TAHC. 

Read the letter below:

Commissioner Ellie Torres Speaks to Local Scholarship Students

Roberto H. Gonzalez
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Commissioner Ellie Torres Speaks to Local Scholarship Students
Ellie Torres, Hidalgo County Commissioner. Photo by Roberto Hugo González
Ellie Torres, Hidalgo County Commissioner. Photo by Roberto Hugo González

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By Roberto Hugo González

At the McAllen Housing Commission’s scholarship awards ceremony, Hidalgo County Commissioner Ellie Torres took the stage to speak directly to the students, parents, and community members gathered to celebrate academic achievement. Her words were grounded in experience, not just as a public official, but as a lifelong educator who spent over 23 years as a teacher and counselor.

Hidalgo County DA Terry Canales, Commissioner Ellie Torres, Alonzo Cantu, David Torres, and Rudy Ramirez gather in celebration of student achievement at the McAllen Housing Commission’s scholarship awards ceremony — a night dedicated to leadership, education, and community. Photo by Roberto Hugo González

Commissioner Torres began by thanking Elva Cerda, Chair of the McAllen Housing Commission, and Rudy Ramirez, Executive Director, for inviting her to speak. She acknowledged the 15 students receiving scholarships and gave a special round of applause to the parents in the audience. “If you’re a parent, please wave so we can recognize you,” she said, reminding everyone that it’s not just the students who work hard —the families who support them, too.

Speaking to the students, Torres shared advice that was simple, honest, and easy to relate to. “Find your passion,” she said. “If you go into a career doing something you love, it won’t feel like work.” She encouraged them to look beyond just making money and instead focus on building a meaningful future.

Ellie Torres, Alonzo Cantu, Rudy Ramirez, and Elva Cerda join a proud group of scholarship recipients at the McAllen Housing Commission awards ceremony — a moment celebrating education, achievement, and the promise of a bright future for South Texas students. Photo by Roberto Hugo González

Torres also talked about the transition from high school to college, especially the challenges of new freedoms. She explained that college students don’t always have daily classes or constant teacher reminders. That means students need to take more responsibility for their time. “What do you do in between classes? You study. That is your number one job,” she said. At the same time, she encouraged students to enjoy their social lives — but to find balance and not let one side take over the other.

She shared a memory from her college years — feeling the pressure to succeed and the weight of her responsibilities. “I remember thinking, ‘I just want this semester to be over,’” she said. “But once it ended, I felt so free. And when I finally graduated, I looked back and realized it was all temporary. The rewards are for a lifetime.”

Her message was clear: even when school feels overwhelming, students should stay focused and committed and remember that the effort pays off in the end. She told students not to lose sight of the bigger picture and not to forget their roots. “Never forget where you come from; someday, pay it forward,” she said.

Commissioner Torres also recognized Alonzo Cantu, the evening’s keynote speaker, praising his generosity and dedication to the community. She encouraged students to follow his example by giving back once they succeed.

Before ending her speech, Torres offered continued support to the students, saying they are always welcome to reach out. Whether it’s a letter of recommendation, help finding an internship, or someone to talk to about college and careers, she clarified that Precinct 4 is a place they can turn to.

“Stay the course,” she told them. “And congratulations — you’ve already made us proud.”

See related stories:

Lessons from Alonzo Cantu Rooted in Humility, Rising Through Education
Commissioner JJ Zamora Inspires Students at Scholarship Ceremony
Hidalgo County DA Encourages Students to Lead with Passion and Purpose

Gov. Announces $5.3M Texas Semiconductor Innovation Grant to MGC Pure Chemicals America, Inc.

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Gov. Announces $5.3M Texas Semiconductor Innovation Grant to MGC Pure Chemicals America, Inc.
Governor Greg Abbott announced that a Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund (TSIF) grant of $5.3 million has been extended to MGC Pure Chemicals America, Inc. (MPCA) for an expansion of their production facility in Killeen, which is expected to create more than $150 million in capital investment. Image for illustration purposes
Governor Greg Abbott announced that a Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund (TSIF) grant of $5.3 million has been extended to MGC Pure Chemicals America, Inc. (MPCA) for an expansion of their production facility in Killeen, which is expected to create more than $150 million in capital investment. Image for illustration purposes

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AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott announced that a Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund (TSIF) grant of $5.3 million has been extended to MGC Pure Chemicals America, Inc. (MPCA) for an expansion of their production facility in Killeen, which is expected to create more than $150 million in capital investment.

“Texas invests in critical supply chain resilience to ensure the semiconductor chips we rely on to drive innovation and fuel our economy are made in Texas,” said Governor Abbott. “MPCA’s $150 million expansion of their production facility in Killeen will help meet the growing demand for specialty chemicals that are essential for the manufacturing of high-quality semiconductor chips. Working with industry leaders, Texas will continue to lead America’s resurgence in semiconductor manufacturing.”

MPCA is a consolidated subsidiary of Tokyo-based Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company, Inc. The company produces a wide variety of chemicals and materials, including super pure hydrogen peroxide and ammonium hydroxide used as cleaning agents to remove micro-dust particles and organic matter from semiconductor chips. This project involves an expansion of the existing manufacturing facility and will add about 130,000 square feet of production space.

“MGC Pure Chemicals America, Inc., nearly 30 years in the USA, is honored to receive a $5.3 million grant from the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund,” said MPCA General Manager Lee Bauer. “These funds will advance the expansion of our existing plant in Killeen. MPCA is committed to accelerating the growth of Central Texas as a semiconductor production cluster and strengthen the overall stability and continuity of the U.S. semiconductor supply chain. MPCA will continue our endeavor to be a vital member of the U.S. semiconductor ecosystem.”

“Central Texas continues to shine as a beacon of innovation and economic growth,” said Senator Pete Flores. “The expansion of MGC Pure Chemicals America in Killeen underscores our commitment to fostering a robust semiconductor industry in our region. This investment not only bolsters our local economy but also reinforces Texas’ position as a leader in cutting-edge technology and manufacturing. Together, we are building a future where Texas remains at the forefront of technological advancement and economic opportunity.”  

“The $5.3 million Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund grant awarded to MGC Pure Chemicals America, Inc. is a strategic investment in both our regional economy and our national security,” said Representative Hillary Hickland. “MPCA’s expansion in Killeen will not only create job opportunities across Central Texas, but it also underscores the vital need to continually advance our state’s global dominance and leadership in America’s semiconductor industry.” 

View more information about MGC Pure.

Governor Abbott signed into law the Texas CHIPS Act in 2023 to establish the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Fund, an incentive program to encourage the continued leadership of Texas in semiconductor research, design, and manufacturing, as well as the Texas Semiconductor Innovation Consortium. These programs, administered by the Texas CHIPS Office, a division within the Governor’s Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office, are designed to leverage Texas’ investments in the semiconductor industry, encourage semiconductor-related companies to expand in the state, further develop the expertise and capacity of Texas institutions of higher education, and maintain the state’s position as the nation’s leader in semiconductor manufacturing.

Nelson Selects Ballot Order for Constitutional Amendment Election 

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Nelson Selects Ballot Order for Constitutional Amendment Election 
Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson drew the ballot order for the 17 proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution. Texans will vote on these amendments as a part of the November 4 Election. Image courtesy of Texas Secretary of State's Office
Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson drew the ballot order for the 17 proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution. Texans will vote on these amendments as a part of the November 4 Election. Image courtesy of Texas Secretary of State’s Office

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AUSTIN – Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson drew the ballot order for the 17 proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution. Texans will vote on these amendments as a part of the November 4 Election.   

“Texas lawmakers have proposed 17 amendments to the state constitution, and now Texans will have the opportunity to weigh in on each amendment,” said Secretary Nelson. “This is an opportunity to make your voice heard about the governing document of our state.” 

In order to be placed on the ballot, a proposed amendment must be a joint resolution approved by at least two-thirds of the Texas House and Senate. 

Below is the ballot order as drawn. 

Proposition 1 (SJR 59) “The constitutional amendment providing for the creation of the permanent technical institution infrastructure fund and the available workforce education fund to support the capital needs of educational programs offered by the Texas State Technical College System.” 

Proposition 2 (SJR 18) “The constitutional amendment prohibiting the imposition of a tax on the realized or unrealized capital gains of an individual, family, estate, or trust.”  

Proposition 3 (SJR 5) “The constitutional amendment requiring the denial of bail under certain circumstances to persons accused of certain offenses punishable as a felony.”  

Proposition 4 (HJR 7) “The constitutional amendment to dedicate a portion of the revenue derived from state sales and use taxes to the Texas water fund and to provide for the allocation and use of that revenue.” 

Proposition 5 (HJR 99) “The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to exempt from ad valorem taxation tangible personal property consisting of animal feed held by the owner of the property for sale at retail.” 

Proposition 6 (HJR 4) “The constitutional amendment prohibiting the legislature from enacting a law imposing an occupation tax on certain entities that enter into transactions conveying securities or imposing a tax on certain securities transactions.” 

Proposition 7 (HJR 133) “The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for an exemption from ad valorem taxation of all or part of the market value of the residence homestead of the surviving spouse of a veteran who died as a result of a condition or disease that is presumed under federal law to have been service-connected.”  

Proposition 8 (HJR 2) “The constitutional amendment to prohibit the legislature from imposing death taxes applicable to a decedent’s property or the transfer of an estate, inheritance, legacy, succession, or gift.”  

Proposition 9 (HJR 1) “The constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to exempt from ad valorem taxation a portion of the market value of tangible personal property a person owns that is held or used for the production of income.” 

Proposition 10 (SJR 84) “The constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to provide for a temporary exemption from ad valorem taxation of the appraised value of an improvement to a residence homestead that is completely destroyed by a fire.” 

Proposition 11 (SJR 85) “The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to increase the amount of the exemption from ad valorem taxation by a school district of the market value of the residence homestead of a person who is elderly or disabled.” 

Proposition 12 (SJR 27) “The constitutional amendment regarding the membership of the State Commission on Judicial Conduct, the membership of the tribunal to review the commission’s recommendations, and the authority of the commission, the tribunal, and the Texas Supreme Court to more effectively sanction judges and justices for judicial misconduct.”  

Proposition 13 (SJR 2) “The constitutional amendment to increase the amount of the exemption of residence homesteads from ad valorem taxation by a school district from $100,000 to $140,000.”  

Proposition 14 (SJR 3) “The constitutional amendment providing for the establishment of the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas, establishing the Dementia Prevention and Research Fund to provide money for research on and prevention and treatment of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and related disorders in this state, and transferring to that fund $3 billion from state general revenue.”  

Proposition 15 (SJR 34) “The constitutional amendment affirming that parents are the primary decision makers for their children.”  

Proposition 16 (SJR 37) “The constitutional amendment clarifying that a voter must be a United States citizen.”  

Proposition 17 (HJR 34) “The constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to provide for an exemption from ad valorem taxation of the amount of the market value of real property located in a county that borders the United Mexican States that arises from the installation or construction on the property of border security infrastructure and related improvements.” 

The last day to register for the November 4 Election is October 6. Early voting in person will be October 20-31. You can find information about the amendments and voting in Texas at VoteTexas.gov. 

Information Source: Texas Secretary of State’s Office

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