Governor Greg Abbott issued a proclamation officially designating May 4‒10, 2025 as Small Business Week in Texas in recognition of the significant impact small businesses have on job creation and the thriving Texas economy. Image for illustration purposes
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AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott issued a proclamation officially designating May 4‒10, 2025 as Small Business Week in Texas in recognition of the significant impact small businesses have on job creation and the thriving Texas economy.
“Small businesses are the very backbone of the strong Texas economy,” said Governor Abbott. “With more than 3 million small businesses employing nearly half of the Texas workforce, Texas is a top state for innovation, job creation, and economic prosperity. To empower more small business owners and entrepreneurs by providing the best environment for small business growth, I signed Texas DOGE into law last month, creating the Texas Regulatory Efficiency Office. The law builds on the recommendations of my Small Business Freedom Council and will slash regulations, put stricter standards on new regulations that could be costly to businesses, and ensure Texas remains the best state for businesses of all sizes.”
The Governor’s Office of Small Business Assistance, in the Governor’s Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office, serves as a focal point in the state for start-ups and small businesses of all sizes, offering a variety of services for Texas entrepreneurs looking to start, strengthen, and grow their business, including:
Additionally, the Governor’s Small Business Summits are hosted in communities across the state, providing Texas small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs the opportunity to network and share relevant advice on small business topics. For more information on upcoming cities and dates, as well as event registration, visit gov.texas.gov/business/events.
For more information on the Governor’s Office of Small Business Assistance, visit gov.texas.gov/smallbusiness. To receive updates on current small business topics and initiatives throughout Texas, sign up for the Governor’s Small Business Snapshot.
Last week, Governor Abbott celebrated Texas being ranked the Best State for Business for the 21st year in a row by Chief Executive magazine in recognition of the state’s business climate, workforce, and quality of life. Additionally, Texas won the 2025 Prosperity Cup awarded by Site Selection magazine to the top-performing state for attracting new business investments, earning Texas the “Triple Crown Trophy” for the best economy in the nation.
Packages containing 95.94 pounds of cocaine, 26.10 pounds of methamphetamine and 14.68 pounds of heroin seized by CBP officers at Eagle Pass Port of Entry. USCBP image
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EAGLE PASS, Texas — U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations officers at the Eagle Pass International Bridge, recently intercepted $1.7 million in mixed hard narcotics concealed within various areas of a passenger vehicle.
“We remain committed to working closely with our federal, state, and international partners to prevent dangerous drugs from entering our communities. These efforts underscore our mission to safeguard the American public while facilitating lawful trade and travel,” said Port Director Pete Beattie, Eagle Pass Port of Entry.
On May 1, CBP officers assigned to the Eagle Pass International Bridge encountered a 1995 Ford Explorer making entry from Mexico driven by a 39-year-old female Mexican citizen. The vehicle was selected for inspection, which included utilization of nonintrusive inspection equipment and screening by a (canine team). After physically inspecting the vehicle, officers extracted 39 packages of alleged cocaine weighing 95.94 pounds (43.52 kg), 11 packages of alleged methamphetamine weighing 26.10 pounds (11.84kg), and six packages of alleged heroin weighing 14.68 pounds (6.66kg), for a total weight of 136.73 pounds (62.02kg) concealed within the vehicle. The estimated street value of the seized narcotics is $1,281,054 in cocaine, $240,020 in methamphetamine, and $246,673 in heroin.
CBP OFO seized the narcotics and vehicle, and the driver was arrested.
Governor Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 2, the landmark school choice program that is the largest day-one launch in the country, into law at the Governor’s Mansion in Austin. Hundreds of Texas parents, students, educators, and school choice advocates from across the state joined to celebrate this historic moment as Governor Abbott signed school choice into law to empower Texas families to choose the education pathway that is best for their child. Photo: Office of The Governor
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AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 2, the landmark school choice program that is the largest day-one launch in the country, into law at the Governor’s Mansion in Austin. Hundreds of Texas parents, students, educators, and school choice advocates from across the state joined to celebrate this historic moment as Governor Abbott signed school choice into law to empower Texas families to choose the education pathway that is best for their child.
Photo: Office of The Governor
“When I ran for re-election in 2022, I promised Texans that we will bring education freedom to every Texas family,” said Governor Abbott. “Today, Texas delivers on that promise. I am signing this law that will ensure Texas families, whose children can no longer be served by the public school assigned to them, have the choice to take their money and find the school that is right for them. This success could not have been accomplished without the hard work of Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, Speaker Dustin Burrows, Chairman Brandon Creighton, Chairman Brad Buckley, and the tireless efforts of school choice advocates across Texas. Today is a historic day, where we come together at the Governor’s Mansion to proudly deliver school choice for Texans.”
The Governor was joined at the bill signing by U.S. Senator John Cornyn, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, Speaker Dustin Burrows, Chairman Brandon Creighton, Chairman Brad Buckley, Kingdom Life Academy Director Joel Enge, school choice advocate Shinara Morrison, and hundreds of state and local officials, school choice advocates, and families from across the state.
“I have been an advocate for school choice long before I was elected lieutenant governor,” said Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick. “I consider the enactment of school choice one of the hallmark policy victories of my career. With Senate Bill 2 signed into law, Texas parents will now be able to choose the best educational environment for their children. The Texas Senate and I have passed school choice six times since 2015 because we firmly believe in this principle. I am so glad the Texas House finally passed Senate Bill 2 so Gov. Abbott could sign it into law today. I thank Gov. Abbott, Speaker Burrows, House Chair Buckley, and especially Senate Chair Creighton, for their partnership and hard work in making this dream a reality today. Texas families will benefit for decades to come because of the actions we took this legislative session.”
“This session, the Texas Legislature worked together to deliver what parents have long been asking for—more opportunities for our students to reach their full potential,” said Speaker Burrows. “School choice, paired with the House’s additional proposal to initiate the largest increase in public education funding in Texas history, will elevate the overall quality of our educational system and make a generational impact on our state. I thank Governor Abbott for his unwavering support and the members of the Texas Legislature for demonstrating a commitment to every Texas student and our state’s collective future.”
“The Texas Education Freedom Act isn’t just a bill—it’s a once-in-a-generation shift for the future of our great state,” said Chairman Creighton. “It will now be law because the focus stayed where it belongs—on the next generation of Texans whose success will shape the future of our state. With the signing of Senate Bill 2, we are telling the students of Texas that your path should fit your purpose—and your ambition is greater than any system. And we’re telling every parent in Texas: you are trusted, you are respected, and you are in charge. I’m proud to have a small part in this victory and am grateful for Governor Abbott, Lt. Governor Patrick, President Trump, Speaker Burrows, and especially my friend, House Education Chair Brad Buckley—who’s remained focused every step of the way on what truly matters: delivering results for Texas kids.”
“With the signing of the Texas Education Freedom Act, we embark on a new journey of opportunity and excellence for families,” said Chairman Buckley Parents will soon have every educational option available to them and they will be able to direct their children’s education to the option that serves them best. This new law opens doors and improves lives. I am incredibly grateful to Governor Abbott, Lt. Governor Patrick, Speaker Burrows, and my friend Chairman Creighton for their leadership and commitment to this issue and for persevering to make this day possible.”
“I’m thrilled that school choice is now a reality in Texas,” said Director Enge. “As a Black school founder and former public-school teacher, I’ve seen firsthand the urgent need for this change. In the low-income and minority community where I live and teach, too many students have fallen through the cracks of a system that couldn’t meet their needs. Now, with Education Savings Accounts, families will finally have the opportunity to choose the educational environment that best supports their child’s success. I’m deeply grateful to Governor Abbott and the Texas Legislature for fighting to make education freedom a reality in Texas.”
“We’ve experienced many educational obstacles in the past three years,” said Mrs. Morrison. “We switched from public schools to charter schools; we even tried private schools, but unfortunately, as a single mother, I can’t afford those things. With Education Savings Accounts, it’s going to empower families like me—regardless of income, where you’re from, your zip code you live in—to choose educational opportunities that fit best for their children.”
Senate Bill 2 (Creighton/Buckley) establishes an Education Savings Account program allowing eligible students to direct funding toward their choice of preapproved educational providers and services such as private school tuition, instructional materials, and educational therapies. With $1 billion in funding for the 2026-2027 school year, the program will be the largest day-one launch in the country.
Robert Carreon, Sofia M. Peña, and Roberto Haddad. Photos by Roberto H. Gonzalez. Peña, Courtesy image. Bgd fo illustration pourposes
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By Roberto Hugo González
McAllen, Texas – In the May 3, 2025, election, McAllen Independent School District (MISD) voters elected trustees for Places 3, 6, and 7. The results, now official, reflect the community’s choices for leadership in the district.
Place 3: Robert Carreon elected
Carreon was elected to the McAllen Independent School District (MISD) Board of Trustees for Place 3 during the May 3, 2025, election. He won 62.93% of the vote, defeating Allena Cano, who received 37.07%. Carreon is succeeding longtime trustee Debbie Crane Aliseda, who chose not to seek re-election.
Place 6: Sofia M. Peña Runs Unopposed
Sofia M. Peña, an incumbent trustee for Place 6 on the McAllen Independent School District (MISD) Board, was re-elected unopposed in the May 3, 2025, election, receiving 3,061 votes.
Peña has a strong background in education and public service. She holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice- Police Administration, a master’s degree in educational leadership, and is a doctoral candidate in Educational Leadership. Her professional experience includes serving as Director of Early College High Schools at South Texas College, Executive Director at Capable Kids Foundation, Inc., and Promotion and Event Director at the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show.
In her role on the MISD Board, Peña has been instrumental in developing the Early College High School program in collaboration with South Texas College. She continues to advocate for dual credit opportunities and college access for all students. She is also a staunch advocate for the disability community, providing experienced perspectives on the school board and committing to decisions that are honest, fair, and in the best interest of the McAllen ISD community.
Peña’s re-election ensures the continuation of her efforts to enhance educational opportunities and support for students within the district.
Place 7: Roberto Haddad Wins Three-Way Race
Roberto Haddad secured a decisive victory in the May 3, 2025, McAllen Independent School District (MISD) Board of Trustees election, winning Place 7 with 73.74% of the vote. His opponents, Tiffany Ramos and Rojelio Aleman II, received 17.19% and 9.06% of the votes, respectively.
A McAllen native, Haddad graduated from McAllen Memorial High School before earning a Bachelor of Business Administration from St. Edward’s University and a Juris Doctor from Georgetown University Law Center. Professionally, he serves as Vice President and Counsel for Government Affairs and Policy at DHR Health, focusing on healthcare law, public policy, and legislative affairs. His prior experience includes serving as Legislative Counsel for Congressman Rubén Hinojosa, where he provided analysis and counsel on various legislative matters.
Haddad’s campaign emphasized strengthening public education, enhancing community engagement, and ensuring fiscal responsibility within the district. He resides in McAllen with his husband and their two children, reflecting his commitment to family and community.
As he prepares to assume his role on the MISD Board of Trustees, Haddad brings a wealth of experience in law, policy, and advocacy. He aims to contribute to the district’s continued success and responsiveness to community needs.
The newly elected trustees will guide MISD’s policies and initiatives.
Voters in McAllen City Commission Districts 1 and 3 took to the polls on Saturday, May 3, 2025, to elect their city commissioners in a regular municipal election. With ballots now counted, the City of McAllen has released the unofficial results, signaling changes and continuities in local leadership. Photos by Roberto Hugo González. Bgd Courtesy image
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By Roberto Hugo González
McALLEN, Texas – Voters in McAllen City Commission Districts 1 and 3 took to the polls on Saturday, May 3, 2025, to elect their city commissioners in a regular municipal election. With ballots now counted, the City of McAllen has released the unofficial results, signaling changes and continuities in local leadership.
In District 1, candidate Tony Aguirre emerged as the clear front-runner, securing 66% of the vote with a total of 980 ballots cast in his favor. His opponent, Tim Wilkins, garnered 494 votes, representing 34% of the total. Aguirre’s decisive lead positions him strongly as the likely next commissioner for the district.
In District 3, a closer race unfolded between Omar Quintanilla and Rolando Rios, with Rios ultimately pulling ahead. Rios received 500 votes (57%), while Quintanilla earned 374 (43%). The result reflects a competitive contest highlighting the community’s engagement and the stakes of local representation.
Importantly, no provisional ballots were cast during the election, allowing the canvassing of results without delay. According to city officials, the canvass is scheduled for Monday, May 12, 2025, just before the regular McAllen City Commission meeting. Once canvassed, the results will become official, paving the way for the newly elected commissioners to take office.
As with all elections, these results remain unofficial until the canvassing process is completed, in accordance with Texas state law. The City of McAllen encourages residents to stay informed and engaged as their elected officials prepare to take on the responsibilities of public office.
The outcomes in Districts 1 and 3 are expected to shape McAllen’s leadership and civic direction in the months and years ahead.
As part of the cases, 83 face allegations of illegally reentering the country. The majority have prior felony convictions for narcotics, firearms, sexual or violent offenses, prior immigration crimes and more. A total of 160 people face charges of illegally entering the country, while 13 cases allege various instances of human smuggling with the remainder involving other immigration-related crimes. Image for illustration purposes
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U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas
HOUSTON – A total of 256 cases have been filed from April 25-May 1 in matters aimed at securing the southern border.
As part of the cases, 83 face allegations of illegally reentering the country. The majority have prior felony convictions for narcotics, firearms, sexual or violent offenses, prior immigration crimes and more. A total of 160 people face charges of illegally entering the country, while 13 cases allege various instances of human smuggling with the remainder involving other immigration-related crimes.
These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) – Homeland Security Investigations, ICE – Enforcement and Removal Operations, BP, Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.
The cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for the Southern District of Texas (SDTX). Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal history, including human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.
The SDTX remains one of the busiest in the nation. It represents 43 counties and more than nine million people covering 44,000 square miles. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from all seven divisions including Houston, Galveston, Victoria, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen and Laredo work directly with our law enforcement partners on the federal, state and local levels to prosecute the suspected offenders of these and other federal crimes.
An indictment or criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
“President Trump’s proposed budget puts students and parents above the bureaucracy. It reflects the historic mandate I have been given to serve as the final Secretary of Education.” – Linda McMahon, Education Secretary
“President Trump’s proposed budget puts students and parents above the bureaucracy. It reflects the historic mandate I have been given to serve as the final Secretary of Education. The federal government has invested trillions of taxpayer dollars into an education system that is not driving improved student outcomes – we must change course and reorient taxpayer dollars toward proven programs that generate results for American students.
The President’s Skinny Budget reflects funding levels for an agency that is responsibly winding down, shifting some responsibilities to the states, and thoughtfully preparing a plan to delegate other critical functions to more appropriate entities. It supports the President’s vision of expanding school choice and ensuring every American has access to an excellent education.
For example, the budget consolidates 24 competitive and formula K-12 grant programs and seven Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) programs down to two simplified funding streams that will continue to provide federal support for low-income families and special education students. This commonsense reform removes the bureaucracy and red tape for states while preserving the federal dollars for low-income families and special needs children and youth.
The Skinny Budget saves billions in taxpayer dollars from going to duplicative, unaligned, or non-essential programs. I look forward to presenting a complete FY 2026 budget in the future and working with Congress to deliver on the promise for a new era in education.”
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) introduced the Universal Savings Account Act, a bill that allows American families to save without the restrictions and penalties associated with traditional tax advantaged accounts. Image for illustration purposes
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) introduced the Universal Savings Account Act, a bill that allows American families to save without the restrictions and penalties associated with traditional tax advantaged accounts.
Sen. Cruz said, “A simple and accessible incentive savings plan will provide families with a way to establish financial security and prosperity. This bill provides a straightforward solution to those challenges. I strongly urge my colleagues to pass this bill for the future generations of Americans.”
Companion legislation was introduced in the House by Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.-1).
Rep. Harshbarger said, “It’s an honor to partner with Senator Cruz on this commonsense legislation to empower Americans to take control of their financial futures. The Universal Savings Account Act cuts through red tape and gives every American a flexible, tax-free way to save, invest, and spend — without government interference or penalties.Washington shouldn’t be in the business of micromanaging how people use their own money. This bill is a win for working families, a win for personal freedom, and a win for financial independence.”
Universal saving accounts (USAs) are tax-advantaged savings vehicles with unrestricted use of funds, allowing participants to save, invest, and withdraw funds for any reason.
This bill would allow the following:
Distributions from Universal Savings Accounts are not subject to income tax, nor included in gross income.
An initial contribution limit of $10,000, which increases by $500 every year, before capping at $25,000.
No contribution limits based on income.
Experts have found Universal Savings Accounts would boost savings for low-income households, allowing them to better withstand economic shocks, such as pandemics and recessions, and plan for major expenses, such as an expanded family, education, and housing needs.
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) proudly announces the graduation of two new K-9 teams and three certified K-9 Tech Trainers, bolstering DPS’ detection and tracking operations. These teams will serve as a critical resource in enhancing public safety, supporting narcotics detection, tracking operations and broader law enforcement efforts across Texas. Photo: Texas DPS
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AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) proudly announces the graduation of two new K-9 teams and three certified K-9 Tech Trainers, bolstering DPS’ detection and tracking operations. These teams will serve as a critical resource in enhancing public safety, supporting narcotics detection, tracking operations and broader law enforcement efforts across Texas.
“Our K-9 teams and trainers play an essential role in protecting our communities,” said DPS Colonel Freeman F. Martin. “Their unmatched expertise and dedication strengthen our ability to detect threats, track suspects and provide critical support —not just along the border, but in every region of Texas. These teams are a multifaceted resource that enhance public safety wherever they are deployed.”
DPS houses one of the nation’s top K-9 programs, consisting of 90 total personnel, including 78 handlers comprised of 54 narcotics detection, 10 explosives detection and 14 tracking K-9s. The teams include several German Shepherds, Dutch Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, Labrador Retrievers and a Vizsla.
Each of the K-9 teams graduating today completed a rigorous nine-week training program with six weeks of pre-training solely for the K-9s, establishing DPS as one of the longest training programs in the nation. Training was conducted by highly experienced DPS K-9 trainers, who bring years of expertise in K-9 behavior and tactical operations. These trainers are dedicated to shaping both handlers and their K-9 partners into cohesive, effective teams capable of excelling in high-pressure situations. Their rigorous training is designed to meet the utmost standard of operational readiness and public safety excellence.
K-9 Tech Trainer Certifications
This class includes three individuals earning their certification as K-9 Tech Trainers. To become certified, individuals must be TCOLE-approved instructors and complete 250 credit hours in a specific discipline. These certified trainers play a critical role in the foundation of the K-9 class, leading the initial six weeks of pre-training before dogs are matched with their handlers. During the school, Tech Trainers oversee daily instruction, assist in leading the class and maintain detailed evaluations to track progress. They are also responsible for managing the use and accountability of training aids. Their expertise ensures that each K-9 team reaches the highest standards of preparation before entering the field.
K-9 Narcotics Detection Team
This graduating class includes one team trained in narcotics detection, a critical asset for DPS. K-9 Rula is trained to detect a wide range of controlled substances including methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine and marijuana. Through rigorous training, Rula was conditioned to operate in high-pressure environments such as vehicle searches, package inspections and large-scale criminal investigations. Working alongside her handler, K-9 Rula will assist in identifying hidden drug caches, disrupting trafficking networks and removing dangerous substances from Texas communities. Their contributions will go beyond enforcement, serving as a deterrent to criminal activity and reinforcing DPS’ commitment to protecting communities from the devastating effects of illegal drugs.
K-9 Tracking Team
The class also includes one team trained in advanced tracking techniques, a vital resource for locating missing persons and fugitives. K-9 Zita is trained to follow human scent trails over long distances and through challenging terrains such as desserts, brush, urban areas and waterways. With the longest DPS track ever recorded at 16 miles, this level of long-distance tracking demonstrates the department’s commitment to maintaining a world-class K-9 program. Whether it be locating a missing child in the woods or tracking down a murder suspect on the run, K-9 Zita and her handler will be invaluable resources in high-stakes search and rescue operations and DPS missions.
Handlers for both disciplines leave educated on K-9 health awareness and medical care techniques to ensure the safety of their K-9 partners while in harsh environments. These K-9 teams and their handlers undergo grueling training to reach the highest level of skills and readiness, preparing them to face the challenges of protecting Texas communities.
