- Burn bans spread across Houston region
Multiple counties surrounding Houston—including Montgomery, Waller, and Liberty—have enacted burn bans as dry conditions and strong winds raise wildfire risks. Officials are urging residents to avoid outdoor burning or fireworks until significant rainfall returns, citing over 50 recent grass fires in the past week.
- Texas to build U.S. icebreakers in Galveston
Texas is emerging as a key site for America’s Arctic defense expansion, with Galveston shipyards slated to build three heavy icebreaker vessels. The move strengthens U.S. presence in polar regions and creates hundreds of skilled maritime jobs, positioning Texas as a major player in national security manufacturing.
- $1B school voucher program set for early 2026 launch
Texas’ new Education Freedom Accounts will open for applications from February 4 to March 20, 2026, offering families state-funded options for private education. Critics argue it could divert resources from public schools, while supporters say it empowers parents with more educational choice.
- Bexar County donates land for veterans home
County commissioners approved donating 27 acres in southwest San Antonio for a new state-run veterans home, which will include long-term care and rehabilitation facilities. Officials say the project will serve more than 1,000 veterans annually and support the region’s growing military community.
- “The Texan” megastore to rival Buc-ee’s near Corpus Christi
Developers unveiled plans for “The Texan,” a massive convenience and fueling complex near Corpus Christi International Airport, featuring hundreds of pumps, restaurants, and truck amenities. The project, estimated at over $50 million, is expected to boost tourism and create hundreds of local jobs.
