Governor Abbott Signs Texas’ Make America Healthy Again Legislation
August 28, 2025 | Austin, Texas | Governor Greg Abbott recently ceremonially signed Texas’ Make America Healthy Again legislation – Senate Bill 25, Senate Bill 314, and Senate Bill 379 – into law alongside U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.
“Every legislator in Texas wants to see Texas be put on a pathway to be healthier,” said Governor Abbott. “These bills that I am signing today put Texas on that pathway. Taxpayer dollars will no longer be used to fund chronic health problems in our state. These bills were truly a bipartisan effort, and I am proud to sign them into effect.”
“Thank you, Governor Abbott, for your leadership in uniting Texans to confront chronic disease,” said Secretary Kennedy. “I also commend the state’s legislators for coming together across party lines to pass these bipartisan bills. Texas has chosen a bold new course for public health—one I urge other states to follow.”
Watch the Governor’s full bill signing ceremony here.
The Governor was joined by Secretary Kennedy, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, Speaker Dustin Burrows, Senator Bryan Hughes, Senator Lois Kolkhorst, Senator Mayes Middleton, Representative Stan Gerdes, Representative Caroline Harris-Davila, Representative Lacey Hull, and additional members of the Texas Senate and House of Representatives.
Senate Bill 25 (Kolkhorst/Hull) known as the ‘Make Texas Healthy Again’ Act, promotes healthier living for all Texans by embedding nutrition education across k-12 schools, higher education, and the healthcare workforce. Additionally, it requires stronger food label transparency for consumers.
Senate Bill 314 (Hughes/Harris-Davila) prohibits schools from serving foods with certain additives as a part of free or reduced-price meals.
Senate Bill 379 (Middleton/Gerdes) prohibits individuals from using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to purchase sweetened drinks and candy.
DPS Increases Enforcement for Labor Day
August 27, 2025 – AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is stepping up enforcement efforts for Labor Day weekend. Operation Crash Awareness Reduction Effort (CARE) runs from Aug. 29-Sept. 1 and is a specialized campaign in which Texas Highway Patrol Troopers patrol for drivers who are speeding, intoxicated, not complying with Texas’ Move Over, Slow Down law or violating other laws. The goal is to reduce the number of traffic crashes and deaths on Texas roads.
The effort ties into DPS’ recently launched 90 Days of Safety campaign, which marks the department’s 90th Anniversary. The three-month safety initiative focuses on how Texans can work alongside law enforcement to do their part to keep communities, roads and families safe.
“Each year, too many lives are lost on Texas roads because of people’s poor decisions,” said Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee. “The decision to drink and drive, the decision not to move over or slow down for emergency vehicles stopped and working along the side of the road, the decision to drive way too fast. We all make decisions that can make our communities safer – and that’s why enforcement efforts like this one – and really this entire 90 Days of Safety campaign – are so important, to help remind people to make safer decisions when they are driving, so we all make it home safely.”
During last year’s Labor Day enforcement campaign, Troopers issued more than 53,612 citations and warnings, including 4,599 for speeding, 1,404 for no insurance, and more than 248 for individuals without seat belts or child seat restraints. DPS also arrested 199 people on DWI charges and 187 people for other felony charges.
DPS encourages the public to follow these safety tips during Labor Day weekend and beyond:
Driver Safety:
- Don’t drink and drive. Make alternate plans if you are consuming alcohol.
- Move Over or Slow Down for police, fire, EMS, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) vehicles and tow trucks stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated. Show the same courtesy to fellow drivers who are stopped on the side of the road. So far in 2025, there have been more than 9,617 Move Over, Slow Down violations.
- Buckle up everyone in the vehicle — it’s the law.
- Slow down, especially in bad weather, heavy traffic, unfamiliar areas or construction zones.
- Eliminate distractions while driving, including the use of mobile devices. Texas law prohibits the use of portable wireless devices to read, write or send an electronic message unless the vehicle is stopped. If you’re using a navigation device or app, have a passenger operate it so you can keep your eyes on the road.
- Drive defensively, as holiday travel can present additional challenges.
- On multi-lane roads, use the left lane for passing only. Not only is it courteous driving and avoids impeding traffic, Texas law requires slower traffic to keep to the right and to use the left lane for passing only (when posted).
- Don’t cut in front of large trucks and try not to brake quickly in front of them. They can’t maneuver as easily as passenger vehicles and pickup trucks.
- If you can Steer It, Clear It: If you are involved in a non-injury crash and your vehicle can be moved, clear the traffic lanes to minimize traffic impact. Leaving vehicles in a traffic lane increases traffic congestion and leaves those involved with an increased risk of harm or a secondary wreck. On some highways, if you don’t move your vehicle when it’s safe to do so, it’s against the law.
- Keep the Texas Roadside Assistance number stored in your phone. Dial 1-800-525-5555 for any type of assistance. The number can also be found on the back of a Texas Driver License.
- Check your vehicle to make sure it is properly maintained and always ensure your cargo is secure.
- Report road hazards or anything suspicious to the nearest law enforcement agency.
- Monitor weather and road conditions wherever you are traveling. For road conditions and closures in Texas, visit Drive Texas.
DPS would also like to remind Texans about the iWatchTexas program, a critical resource for reporting suspicious activity within the community to help prevent dangerous attacks. It’s especially important to be vigilant as people gather for parades, festivals and other community events. Tips can be reported via the website, the free iWatch iOS or Android mobile app or by calling 844-643-2251. All reports are confidential. For information on how to use iWatchTexas, you can view this how-to video.
Remember, iWatchTexas is not for emergencies. If there is an emergency, call 911 immediately.
The Hopkins County African American Leadership Conference was Held August 23rd
August 26, 2025 – The Hopkins County African American Leadership Conference was held Saturday, August 23rd, 2025, at East Caney Missionary Baptist Church. Deacon Ricky Godbolt was the Master of Ceremony. This conference included such exciting activities as a “Welcome” by Reverend Jason Lindley, the song, “One More Sunny Day” performed by Sister Jossie Jimmerson, a recital of “Still I Rise” by Maya Angelou, spoken by Sister Tammy Duffey, and so much more! The special guest speaker was former Alumni Director of East Texas A&M University, Mr. Derylle Peace. Many Hopkins County residents were honored at this conference. Below is KSST/Channel 18’s coverage of this heart warming event.
The 2025 Dial Study Club Wildcats Homecoming Parade is Just Around the Corner
August 26, 2025 – Dial Study Club President, Jennifer Graves, reached out to KSST to ask us to remind the community that the 2025 Dial Study Club Wildcats Homecoming Parade will march through Sulphur Springs, Texas, Tuesday, September 2nd, 2025! The parade is scheduled to begin at 6:30pm! Come on out and show your support for the Sulphur Springs High School Wildcats! The 2025 Homecoming Court will be in the parade, showing their school spirit! Come on out and join in on all of the fun!
Hopkins County Commissioners Lower Property Tax Rate
August 26, 2025 – During a regular meeting of the Hopkins County Commissioner’s Court on Tuesday, the court ultimately approved the county’s budget for next year as well as lowered the property tax rate by more than 7 cents. Hopkins County auditor, Shannah Aulsbrook, has been working with the commissioner’s court for months on the new budget. Shannah reports that “due to more overall tax collections and the due diligence of the court to keep the next year’s budget constrained, the court was able to lower the tax burden on property owners by more than 17%.” The new tax rate will be lowered from 0.400220 to 0.335617. The vote for the new tax rate was unanimous.
State Fair to Host Sensory-Friendly Mornings for the Seventh Year
By Bridget Browning | August 26, 2025 | For the seventh year, the State Fair of Texas is offering Sensory Friendly Mornings at the Fair every Wednesday – October 1, 8, and 15, from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Providing a family-friendly environment is at the core of the State Fairs’ mission. Therefore, the Fair is excited to bring back Sensory Friendly Mornings for a seventh year. The Fair collaborated with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) and other local organizations to devise ways to make Sensory-Friendly Mornings beneficial and fun for all who choose to attend, with the goal of creating opportunities for people to experience the Fair in a more accessible way.
On Sensory Friendly Mornings, adjustments are made across fairgrounds to accommodate any sensory-related concerns. The Fair has created a special guided itinerary with a list of activities and exhibits that are easy on the eyes and ears. Fairgoers will also be able to enjoy all the Midway fun without the usual lights and sounds from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the fairground areas designated as “Quiet Zones.” Families can go to these areas should they need to depressurize. Please note that the usual lights and sounds of the Midway will return at 1:30 p.m. Click here to download this year’s Sensory Friendly Mornings Guided Itinerary.
The State Fair of Texas will be partnering with Joni and Friends Texas during the first Sensory Friendly Morning of the Fair on Wednesday, October 1. Joni and Friends is a nonprofit organization that supports folks with disabilities around the world. Joni and Friends Texas will be providing registered families with a volunteer buddy to provide additional support during your Fair visit. If you are interested in volunteering to attend the first Sensory-Friendly Wednesday at the Fair, please visit Joni and Friends at the State Fair, Texas 2025 | Joni and Friends to register. Check out the video below to see all the fun that was had in 2023, at the Most Texan Place on Earth® in partnership with Joni and Friends Texas.
Trends in attendance show that Wednesdays provide a better experience for those with sensory sensitivities. Wednesdays are also the best discount day! Each person who brings five canned food items to donate to North Texas Food Bank will receive $7 admission.
The Fair welcomes individuals with autism, their families, and anyone else who may benefit from a sensory-friendly experience to come out and enjoy the Most Texan Place on Earth on Sensory Friendly Mornings. For more information, visit BigTex.com/Sensory or contact the Director of Communications, Taylor Pulfer, at [email protected].
COMMISSIONER SID MILLER ON HUMAN CASE OF TRAVEL-RELATED NWS IN THE UNITED STATES
August 26, 2025 – “The report of a human case of travel-related New World Screwworm (NWS) in Maryland is concerning; however, we must remain level-headed in our response to this pest. The spread of screwworm has not reached the United States, and this isolated event highlights the risk to travelers returning from regions where cases are active. While screwworms are known for causing severe damage to livestock and wildlife, it is important to remember they also pose a threat to human health, even if those cases are rare.
The Maryland resident who contracted a travel-associated case of New World screwworm—confirmed by the CDC on August 4—has fully recovered. Authorities report there is no evidence of transmission to other individuals or animals.
Farmers and ranchers across America have been calling for action with immediate results. I remain fully committed to keeping Texas and our nation prepared, resilient, and proactive. That is why I have been working closely with U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins to strengthen America’s defenses. Our TDA Swormlure, a state-of-the-art attractant, combined with pesticide bait, will provide an immediate and powerful safeguard against this devastating pest.”
Miller Grove ISD Issues Statement on Student “Hit List”
Public Statement from Miller Grove ISD
Miller Grove ISD has been made aware of concerns regarding a potential “hit list” involving students at our school. We want to assure our parents, staff, and community that the Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office was immediately notified and actively investigated the matter.
The safety and security of our students is our highest priority. Miller Grove ISD and local law enforcement take all reports of this nature very seriously. At this time, there is no evidence of an immediate threat, and students remain safe at school.
We are committed to maintaining a secure learning environment and continue to work closely with law enforcement throughout this investigation. Due to confidentiality requirements and the integrity of the investigation, specific details will not be shared.
We encourage parents to speak with their children about the importance of reporting any concerning behavior to a trusted adult immediately. Together, we can ensure that Miller Grove ISD remains a safe and supportive place for every student.
Dr. Linda Rankin
Superintendent
Miller Grove ISD
First U.S. Human Case of Travel-Associated New World Screwworm Confirmed
August 25, 2025 – The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has confirmed the nation’s first human case of travel-associated New World screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite, in a patient who recently returned from El Salvador. The case was officially verified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on August 4 and investigated in coordination with the Maryland Department of Health.
“The risk to public health in the United States from this introduction is very low,” HHS spokesman Andrew G. Nixon said.
The parasite, which feeds on living tissue, has long been a concern in Central America and southern Mexico. While initial reports linked the case to travel from Guatemala, HHS did not clarify the conflicting accounts. Despite the discrepancy, officials emphasized that the risk to public health in the U.S. remains low, and no animal infections have been reported in 2025.
The confirmation has sparked concern among cattle ranchers and livestock industries, especially as screwworm continues its northward spread. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently announced plans to build a sterile fly facility in Texas, aiming to prevent a potential outbreak that could cost the state’s cattle industry up to $1.8 billion.
Veterinarians and industry leaders criticized the lack of early transparency from the CDC, learning of the case through unofficial channels before formal confirmation.
Media Statement: Black Bear Sightings Confirmed in East Texas
August 25, 2025 – Biologists with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) have confirmed several sightings of a black bear in Cherokee, Anderson, Panola and Rusk Counties.
Black bears are native to Texas and part of the state’s natural heritage and ecosystem. They are designated as a threatened species in Texas, so it is illegal to kill, injure, take, possess, capture, or transport a black bear. Please note there are severe penalties for killing a black bear in East Texas. These penalties can include a combination of fines and jail time, including civil restitution penalties exceeding $12,000.
There are no resident populations of black bears in East Texas, and TPWD has not and does not stock bears in East Texas. However, all of our neighboring states have established breeding populations of bears. This time of year, young bears are leaving their mothers and may end up in unusual places.
Black bears are guided by an excellent sense of smell, and their behavior is driven largely by appetite. Bears are not normally aggressive and should be left alone. If you see a bear, remain calm, stay far away, do not run, and never attempt to feed or restrain it. Bears will typically move on if they are given space and if nearby attractants are secured, such as garbage, pet food, bird feeders, and deer feeders. For more information on securing attractants, visit BearWise.org.
Please report sightings to your local TPWD biologist or your local Texas Game Warden. Documented sightings help TPWD track bear activity and biologists can provide technical help on ways to secure attractants. Residents can find a local biologist at https://tpwd.texas.gov/landwater/habitat-management/find-a-wildlife-biologist/
Bear Resources:
BearWise helps people live responsibly with bears
Bear Encounters — How to behave if you see a bear
Video on securing deer feeders from bears
