SUMMARY: Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar announced a projected $24 billion surplus, surpassing previous estimates. The state expects $194.6 billion in revenue for general-purpose spending in the 2026-2027 biennium, up from earlier forecasts. Despite economic challenges, Texas’ economy has outperformed the national average. Hegar stressed the importance of thoughtful spending decisions, highlighting the ongoing struggles with high living costs. Oil and gas revenues are significant, but no reserves are expected for the Rainy Day Fund due to its record-high balance. Sales taxes remain the state’s largest revenue source, projected to reach $94.2 billion in 2026-2027. Hegar cautioned about potential economic disruptions.

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SUMMARY: Police are investigating two related shootings that occurred in North Houston before 10:00 PM last night. A man was found dead at Enclave Fountain from multiple gunshot wounds, while another man was shot twice near a gas station on Tidwell and is currently in stable condition at a hospital. Witness statements and evidence suggest an exchange of gunfire took place, but police have yet to determine if the involved parties are connected. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact them or Crime Stoppers anonymously. The investigation is ongoing, with updates expected as more details emerge.

Police are investigating two shootings in north Houston, including one that turned deadly. They believe the incidents may be connected.

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SUMMARY: Orlena Mehrabian’s property in Round Rock has become a construction site due to Atmos Energy’s pipeline project, which involves replacing a 4-inch gas line with a 16-inch line. Atmos Energy claims existing easement rights, inherited from Lone Star Gas Company, which acquired the easement in 1928 for $39. This allows them to expand the easement’s width from 20 feet to 50 feet, affecting Mehrabian’s land. Concerned homeowners have circulated petitions requesting the pipeline be rerouted along roadways for safety. Atmos Energy acknowledges the disruption but asserts they are adhering to easement laws and maintaining communication with landowners.

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