Local Politics: The Texas Forward Party endorsed former Hays County Judge Liz Sumter Gajdos for Hays County Judge as an Independent, pitching her as a “community-first” option focused on growth management, water protection, animal welfare, and open government. Insurance & Housing Costs: A new report warns El Paso homeowners could get hit with unexpected out-of-pocket costs as some insurers shift toward “Actual Cash Value,” reducing what they pay on older roofs. Education Policy: Gov. Greg Abbott is pushing to ban H-1B visas in Texas public schools, arguing for “exactly zero” H-1B employees, while districts say they rely on the program for hard-to-fill shortages. Legal Fight Over Religion in Schools: Parents asked the U.S. Supreme Court to review Texas’ Ten Commandments classroom display law after a 5th Circuit ruling allowed the posters to go up. Public Health & Animals: Texas shelters are facing adoption holds and higher euthanasia risk as the New World screwworm spreads, disrupting pet transfers across state lines. Consumer Protection: Texas AG Ken Paxton launched an avocado-oil labeling investigation after studies found many products contain undisclosed seed oils. Weather & Safety: Extreme heat warnings are in effect across much of Texas, with heat indexes forecast above 108 in major cities. Sports: Texas A&M QB Marcel Reed landed on the Davey O’Brien Award watch list as the Aggies chase a bigger playoff finish. Crime & Courts: A judge will consider a new trial for teen Karmelo Anthony in the track meet killing case after claims of improper access and off-the-record handling.