SUMMARY: The Texas House Public Health Committee discussed House Bill 18, the Rural Health Stabilization and Innovation Act, aimed at ensuring rural Texans have access to healthcare services. Authored by Rep. Gary VanDeaver, the bill addresses the severe lack of healthcare resources in rural areas, with many counties having no hospitals. It proposes creating a State Office of Rural Hospital Finance, a Texas Rural Hospital Officers Academy, and a grant program for rural hospitals. The bill also includes a Rural Pediatric Mental Health Care Access Program using telehealth. Discussions continue as stakeholders assess the bill’s scope and effectiveness.

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SUMMARY: Hurricanes are categorized by wind speed, which determines the potential damage they can inflict. Tropical storms have winds of 50-60 MPH, causing minor disruptions, while a Category 1 hurricane with winds of 74 MPH can damage roofs and uproot small trees. As wind speeds increase to 96 MPH (Category 2), significant damage occurs, including broken windows and torn-off siding. At 111 MPH (Category 3), major destruction affects mobile homes. Category 4 hurricanes at 130 MPH can obliterate roofs and cause widespread power outages. Finally, Category 5 hurricanes, with winds exceeding 157 MPH, lead to catastrophic devastation, making areas uninhabitable for extended periods.

Meteorologist Pat Cavlin breaks down the different hurricane categories and what damage they can do.

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SUMMARY: Texas students, educators, and officials are concerned after President Trump signed an executive order to begin dismantling the U.S. Department of Education. Critics argue that transferring its responsibilities, including federal funding, civil rights protections, and school performance data, to other agencies could weaken programs, particularly for marginalized students. Governor Greg Abbott supports the move, emphasizing the need for state control over education. However, it remains unclear how key programs like Pell grants and student loans will be managed. State Representative Gina Hinosa has proposed bills to ensure federal funding reaches schools directly, bypassing the Texas Education Agency.

Students, educators, and elected officials joined to speak at the State Capitol after President Donald Trump signed an executive order to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education last week.

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