Community News
Saturday, May 2, 2026 · Odessa
Casar's Utility Bill Targets Texas Rate Hikes With Federal Profit Caps
U.S. Rep. Greg Casar of Austin introduced sweeping legislation this week to cap utility company profits and bar them from charging customers for executive perks like private jet travel. The bill, backed by Houston Democrats Al Green and Christian Menefee, could save Texas families $500 annually but faces an uphill battle in a divided Congress.
Texas Lt. Gov. Patrick Targets Prediction Market Gambling Loophole
Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick is leading a charge to slam shut a federal loophole letting prediction markets thrive as online gambling in the Lone Star State. These platforms, booming since 2025, allow wagers on everything from Astros strikeouts to election winners, sparking fears of manipulated sports and votes. But the Trump-era CFTC is aggressively blocking states like Texas from stepping in.
Saturday, May 2, 2026
South Texas Families Sue SpaceX for Sonic Boom Home Damage
Eighty South Texas residents are taking Elon Musk's SpaceX to federal court, claiming explosive rocket tests shattered their homes with massive sonic booms. From Port Isabel to South Padre Island, families say two years of blasts have cracked walls and rattled roofs. SpaceX has yet to respond as the lawsuit unfolds.
Saturday, May 2, 2026
Texas Judge Halts Smokeable Hemp THC Ban, Shops Stay Open
A Travis County judge has issued a temporary injunction, allowing Texas smoke shops to keep selling hemp THC products like flower buds and pre-rolls amid a fierce legal battle. The ruling blocks a controversial 0.3% THC limit and a 3,000% licensing fee hike set by state health officials. Another hearing looms on July 27 as the hemp industry fights for survival.
Saturday, May 2, 2026