Paris District Road Report for May 11, 2026
May 8, 2026 – Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in Fannin, Grayson, Hopkins, Franklin, Delta, Lamar, Red River, Hunt and Rains Counties for the week starting May 11, 2026. These schedules are subject to change due to weather conditions, equipment failure or other unforeseen issues. Motorists are advised to remain alert and pay special attention to all signs, barricades, and traffic controls, and reduce their speed as they approach and travel through work zones. They should also avoid distractions such as cell phones, eating, drinking, or car audio or navigation systems.
Sherman Area (Fannin, Grayson Counties)
Contacts: Sherman Area Office (903) 892-6529; Grayson Co. Maintenance (903) 893-8831; Fannin Co. Maintenance (903) 583-7566.
Grayson County:
US 75, from the Collin County Line to FM 902. This project will widen the US 75 mainlanes from the Collin County Line to FM 902 to six lanes. The project will also reconstruct the bridge at County Line Road and construct new u-turn bridges in Van Alstyne near Simmons Loop and in Howe south of Hall Cemetery Road. This project will convert the frontage roads from two-way operation to one-way operation. Two lanes on the US 75 main lanes will remain open in each direction during the daytime hours with occasional lane closures during the nighttime period. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads during construction. A reduced speed limit of 65 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project.
The frontage roads in Van Alstyne and Howe on both the east and west sides of US 75 from County Line Road (CR 375/Panther Parkway) to Haning St. are one-way roads. The pavement work is completed, and both lanes of the frontage roads are open to traffic except at Bear Rd and Hall Cemetery Rd. The sections at Bear Rd and Hall Cemetery Rd. will have only one lane open. There will be occasional lane closures to install work zone striping & other remaining works. The section of frontage road on the east side of US 75 between Kelly Lane and County Line Road will remain as two-way traffic in order to allow traffic on Kelly Lane to travel to County Line Road.
The US 75 frontage roads in Howe were converted to one-way traffic on February 04. This one-way conversion happened on both the east and west sides of US 75 from Hanning St to FM 902. Occasional lane closures will be in place in order to complete remaining items such as backfill and striping.
US 75, from SH 91 (Texoma Parkway) to US 82. This project will rebuild the US 75 mainlanes from SH 91 to US 82 as well as reconstruct the entrance and exit ramps on US 75. The project will also reconstruct bridges at Taylor Street, Lamberth Street and the US 75 main lanes over US 82 and reconstruct the frontage road intersection at SH 91. A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project. Two lanes on the US 75 main lanes will remain open in each direction during the daytime hours with occasional further lane closures during the nighttime period. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads during construction.
The US 75 frontage road U-turn at the US 82 frontage road intersection travelling southbound to northbound is closed to traffic to allow crews to continue work on a portion of the new US 75 main lane bridge over US 82. During this closure, traffic is asked to go through the US 75 and US 82 frontage road intersection by making a series of left turns.
US 75 northbound exit ramp to Lamberth Rd. (Exit 63) will be closed from August 20 to May 2026. This is a long-term closure, and drivers should use the adjacent exits.
Lamberth Dr. Eastbound and westbound to be closed from January 17 to September 2026.
US 75 southbound entrance ramp from US 82 is closed.
US 75 northbound frontage road between Loy Lake Rd (Sherman) and FM 691 will be closed from March 30, 2026, at 7:00 am to February 2027. This is a long-term full closure.
US 75 southbound frontage road between FM 691 and Loy Lake Rd. (Sherman) will be closed from April 20, 2026, at 7:00 am to June 2027.
The north-south U-Turn at the frontage roads of US 75 and US 82 intersection will be fully closed during the day from May 01 to May 31 from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.
The south-north U-Turn at the frontage roads of US 75 and US 82 intersection will be fully closed from May 01 to May 31 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
US 75 northbound frontage road intersection with Lamberth Dr (east side) will be closed for long duration from May 14 to June 15 beginning 8:00 pm.
US 75 southbound mainlanes from Loy Lake Sherman to Travis St (Exit 65) will be fully closed during the nights from May 12 to May 13 from 8:00 pm to 5:00 am. This closure is needed for setting girders.
US 75 northbound mainlanes from Travis St. to Loy Lake Sherman (Exit 60) will be fully closed during the nights from May 11 to May 12, from 8:00 pm to 5:00 am. This closure is needed to set beams.
US 75 northbound mainlanes from N. Travis St. to Loy Lake Sherman (Exit 60) will be fully closed from May 13 to May 15, from 8:00 pm to 5:00 am. This closure is needed to set beams.
US 75 southbound mainlanes from Loy Lake Sherman to Travis St (Exit 65) will be fully closed during the nights from May 17 to May 19 from 6:00 pm to 5:00 am. This closure is needed for setting girders.
US 75 northbound right lane from Loy Lake Sherman to Travis St will be fully closed during the nights from May 18 to May 19 from 8:00 pm to 5:00 am. This closure is needed for setting girders.
US 75 southbound mainlanes from Loy Lake Sherman to Travis St (Exit 65) will be fully closed during the nights from May 19 to May 22 from 8:00 pm to 5:00 am. This closure is needed for setting deck panels.
US 75 northbound mainlanes from Travis St. to Loy Lake Sherman (Exit 60) will be fully closed during the nights from May 19 to May 21 from 8:00 pm to 5:00 am. This closure is needed for setting girders.
US 75 northbound right lane from Loy Lake Sherman to Travis St will be fully closed during the nights from May 18 to May 19 from 8:00 pm to 5:00 am. This closure is needed for setting deck panels.
US 75 main lanes and frontage roads at various locations will be closed for short duration during daytime and nighttime due to mobile operations from April 01 to April 30. These closures are short duration closures that will happen between 8:00 am and 6:00 pm or between 8:00 pm and 5:00 am.
US 75, from US 82 to North Loy Lake Road. This project will rebuild and widen the US 75 mainlanes from four lanes to six lanes as well as reconstruct the entrance and exit ramps on US 75. The project will also reconstruct bridges at FM 691, Iron Ore Creek and Spur 503, and add U-turn bridges at Loy Lake Road in Sherman and Spur 503 in Denison. A reduced speed limit of 65 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project. Watch for shoulder closures and lane shifts on the mainlanes of US 75 as well as frontage road lane closures within the project. Watch for nighttime lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 75 mainlanes, as crews work to construct the new pavement section.
Westbound Spur 503 is closed to traffic near US 75 as the connecting northbound and southbound frontage roads are being built at the new Spur 503 bridge. Westbound traffic will travel to the intersection of Spur 503 and the northbound frontage road and will go north on the new frontage road to access northbound US 75. Motorists wishing to go south will follow the northbound frontage road to Loy Lake Rd, and take the U-turn and continue south until the next available entrance ramp to southbound US 75.
The U-turn lanes for the US 75 frontage roads at FM 691 are closed to traffic to allow crews to work on constructing the middle portion of the new US 75 bridge over FM 691. During this closure traffic wishing to make a U-turn at the intersection is asked to turn left onto FM 691 and make another left at the next signal light.
The exit ramp from northbound US 75 to North Loy Lake Road in Denison is closed permanently. Travelers who wish to access North Loy Lake Road from northbound US 75 will detour up to Crawford Street, make a U-turn at the Crawford Street intersection, and head south on the frontage road to reach North Loy Lake Road.
US 75, from FM 1417 to SH 91 (Texoma Parkway). A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set on the mainlanes for this construction project. Watch for shoulder closures and occasional lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between SH 91 and FM 1417 as crews work on completing the remaining work on this project. Watch for occasional lane closures on the frontage roads between FM 1417 and SH 91.
US 82, from SH 91 to the Fannin County Line. Watch for daytime lane closures on the US 82 eastbound and westbound main lanes as crews work to perform pavement repairs and then a pavement overlay on the surface. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours.
US 75 debris pickup, from Collin County line to Oklahoma State line. Watch for mobile lane closures as workers pick up debris from the roadway every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday during the nighttime.
Southmayd Rd at Elba Creek, The bridge at Elba Creek was closed beginning June 25. The bridge replacement is completed and opened to traffic on December 03. Construction crews will continue working on the remaining minor items and motorists are requested to slow down as they drive through the work zone.
FM 697, from east of FM 2729 to US 69, This project will widen FM 697 on each side of the roadway to make the shoulders wider. The project will also safely treat fixed objects and add one course surface treatment on the full width of the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
Prescott Rd, Southmayd. Contractor will continue performing bridge replacement work on the Prescott Road bridge located between Johnny Watson Road and Jelley Road in Grayson County. Majority of the bridge work is completed, and it was opened to traffic on March 31, 2026. Occasional lane closures will be in place to finish the remaining items of work. Motorists are requested to slow down as they drive through the work zone.
Calf Creek Ln. Contractor will be performing bridge replacement work on Calf Creek Ln bridge located at Calf Creek. The bridge will be closed in both directions beginning March 10, 2026, and will remain closed until July 2026. Road closure signs are installed on the roads leading to the project to inform drivers. Drivers can use Jim Lamb Rd and Whitney Rd. as an alternate route.
FM 922 from Cook County line to US 377. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform level up work on the roads. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
US 82 from FM 901 to FM 1417. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform level up work on the roads. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
US 69 at Iron Ore Creek. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform bridge deck cleaning activities. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Fannin County:
Bonham State Park, Park Road 24. Park Road 24 in Bonham State Park will have daytime lane closures while crews rehabilitate the main road, camping spots and parking lots within the park. Detour routes will be present during construction to allow for the flow of traffic.
FM 274, from SH 78 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 121 overpass at US 69. The SH 121 overpass at US 69 opened to all traffic on 6/23/2025. Construction crews will continue working on minor items at this location. Motorists should expect delays as there will be occasional daily lane closures through the construction zone.
SH 56 at Hutchins Creek and at Caney Creek. Watch for lane closures as crews perform bridge repair work. The temporary signals are removed. However, motorists should expect delays as there will be occasional daily lane closures through the construction zone.
SH 78 from FM 273 to Oklahoma State line: Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek. The onsite detour on CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek has been removed. The new bridge is completed and open to traffic. Traffic is asked to approach the bridge slowly and drive at an appropriate speed through the work zone while crews continue working on finishing the remaining bridge work.
CR 2105. Contractor will be performing bridge replacement work on CR 2105 bridge located at Robert Springs Tributary. The bridge is closed in both directions beginning March 05, 2026, and will remain closed until July 2026. Road closure signs are installed on the roads leading to the project to inform drivers. Drivers can use CR 2110 and CR 2100 as an alternate route.
CR 2410 at Tanyard Creek. Contractor will be performing bridge replacement work on the CR 2410 bridge located at Tanyard Creek. The bridge is closed in both directions beginning January 22, 2026, and will remain closed until May 2026. Road closure signs are installed on the roads leading to the project to inform drivers. Drivers can use FM 100 and FM 2216 as an alternate route.
FM 1553. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform seal coat preparation work on the roads. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Various locations. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform herbicide application, sign installation and mailbox installation along the road. Motorists should expect delays as maintenance equipment travel slowly through the work zone.
Sulphur Springs Area (Hopkins, Franklin Counties):
Contacts: Sulphur Springs Area Office (903) 885-9514; Franklin Co. Maintenance (903) 537-4976; Hopkins Co. Maintenance (903) 885-4031.
Hopkins County: SH 19, from I-30 to Rains County Line. Crews will be installing mailboxes and working on miscellaneous work items.
Franklin County: FM 21, from SH 37 to Titus County Line. Crews will be rehabbing the existing road. Watch for temporary traffic signals within the work area. Expect slower moving traffic.
Hopkins County: SH 19 at US 67. Crews will be working on the pavement joints in the intersection. There will be daily lane closures during the repair process.
Hopkins County: Broadway Bridge at IH 30. Beginning June 1st, the bridge will be closed to through traffic for 21 days. During this closure the bridge deck will be resurfaced and allowed to cure before being reopened to traffic.
Paris Area (Delta, Lamar, Red River Counties):
Contacts: Paris Area Office (903) 784-1357; Delta Co. Maintenance (903) 395-2139; Lamar Co. Maintenance (903) 785-4468; Red River Co. Maintenance (903) 427-3561.
Lamar County:
BU 271 B, from 18th Street SE to 34th Street SE . Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk on the north and south sides of the roadway.
SH 19/24, Lamar & Delta Counties: from LP 286 intersection to SH 19 . Watch for temporary lane closures and lane shifts while crews resurface the roadway, perform bridge rail upgrades, and bridge maintenance.
US 82, Lamar & Red River Counties: from State Loop 286 in Paris to Bowie County Line in Red River County. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures.
1st ST SW & South Main St., Lamar County: from Hearne St. in Paris to Kaufman ST. in Paris. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install a bike lane and perform pavement and curb repairs.
FM 79, at Little Creek. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews perform bridge maintenance.
BU 82 H (Bonham St.), from Loop 286 to 11th Street NW . Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk on the north and south sides of the roadway.
BU 271 (North Main St.), from Price Street to Martin Luther King Drive. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk on the east and west sides of the roadway.
FM 905, at Big Sandy Creek. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews perform bridge maintenance.
Delta County:
SH 154, from SH 19 to BU 24. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures.
Red River County:
FM 2120, from FM 2573 to SH 37. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
Northeast Texas Trail, Clarksville, Texas. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
Northeast Texas Trail, from BU 82J to Annona East City Limits. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
Northeast Texas Trail, from Annona East City Limits to Bowie County Line. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
BU 82 J, from FM 2825 to High Street (Clarksville). Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk on the south sides of the roadway.
Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)
Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903) 455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.
SH 34, From Traders Road to FM 1570. This project will construct a turning lane, consisting of culvert extensions, roadway widening, overlay, and striping. Work on this project is currently suspended due to utility conflicts. TxDOT is working with utility owners to relocate utilities. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 2642, from FM 35 to SH 66. The contractor has set work zone signs and barricades. New traffic phase. Please slow down, be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 512, from SH 34 to FM 118. Barricades and traffic signs are in place. Contractor will be setting signs and mailboxes. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
SH 276, from FM 751 to CR 3609. The 2.6-mile rehabilitation project will add a center turn lane. The contractor has placed barricades and work zone traffic signs. Contractor is now excavating on the eastbound shoulder. Flagger operations in place while work is being performed. Expect delays in the work zone. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 36, from US 380 to SH 66. The 6.11-mile project will rehabilitate roadway surface and add safety end treatments. Final pavement surface is complete. Contractor is preparing to backfill edges. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 816, Bridge Replacement. This project will replace two bridges on FM 816 at Loring Creek. Bridge demolition will begin on May 12th. The road will be closed beginning May 12th, and traffic should follow detour. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Interchange Improvements, from Monte Stratton to FM 1903. Barricades and advance warning signs are in place. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Improvements, from CR2511 to FM 36. Temp wall work is ongoing. The contractor is working in the median and on frontage roads. Expect one lane closures and rolling closures at night. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
Hunt and Rains Counties:
Hunt County and Rains maintenance crews will be performing pothole repair, roadway sweeping, sign repair work, and mailboxes throughout Hunt and Rains County.
Hunt County maintenance crew will be performing overlay on FM 36 from FM 2194 to FM 1562, and on FM 816 from FM 2194 to FM 1562. Crew will be performing bridge maintenance work in various locations. Maintenance contractors will be performing guardrail repairs at various locations.
Rains County maintenance section will be performing base repairs on FM 47 from SH 276 to Van Zandt County Line. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
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Brunch and Style Show to be Held at Heritage Park May 9th
May 8, 2026 – A “Brunch and Style Show” is scheduled to be held at Heritage Park in Sulphur Springs, Texas, Saturday, May 9th, 2026. Activities begin at 9:00am. Everyone is welcome.
State Orders Unapproved Muslim University in Richardson to Cease Operations
May 8, 2026 – RICHARDSON, Texas — State regulators have ordered a Richardson-based institution operating as “Texas American Muslim University at Dallas” to immediately shut down, citing violations of Texas higher education law.
On Thursday, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board announced that the organization—also referred to as “TexAM University at Dallas”—had been offering degree programs without proper authorization. According to the agency, the institution never obtained the required Certificate of Authority to operate as a college or university in Texas, as mandated under Chapter 61 of the Texas Education Code.
The north star that guides everything we do at the TexAM University must be to advance Texas — from its economy to its health and from its culture to its levels of educational attainment so critical to progress.
The case first drew public attention following reporting by Texas Scorecard, which highlighted the group’s marketing efforts. The institution promoted itself as an Islamic-centered university combining STEM-focused degree programs with required coursework in Islamic studies.
State officials said that regardless of curriculum or religious affiliation, any institution offering higher education degrees in Texas must meet strict regulatory standards before enrolling students or issuing credentials. Without that approval, the use of protected terms like “university” or “college” is prohibited under state law.
“The organization has been operating outside the legal framework designed to protect students and ensure educational quality,” the coordinating board said in its enforcement notice. Regulators emphasized that proper authorization helps guarantee that degrees awarded by institutions are legitimate and recognized by employers and other schools.
Texas American Institute for Technology at Dallas is a non-profit organization, registered with the Secretary of State of Texas, USA. It operates under the DBA (Doing Business As) name Texas American Muslim University at Dallas.
Authorities warned that continued operation could expose the organization to significant legal consequences. Potential penalties include criminal charges, civil liability, administrative fines, and enforcement actions under the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act. Officials noted that such laws are intended to prevent misleading claims that could harm students financially or academically.
It remains unclear how many students may have enrolled or whether any degrees have already been issued. The coordinating board did not immediately release details about potential restitution or next steps for affected students but urged anyone impacted to contact the agency for guidance.
The shutdown order underscores Texas regulators’ increasing scrutiny of unapproved educational providers, particularly those advertising professional or academic credentials. State leaders say enforcement actions like this are necessary to maintain trust in the higher education system and to protect students from investing time and money in programs that lack legal standing.
As of Thursday, the organization had not publicly responded to the state’s order.
Owe Child Support? Your Passport Might Get Revoked
May 8, 2026 – The U.S. State Department is preparing to revoke the passports of thousands of Americans who owe large amounts of unpaid child support, marking a significant expansion of federal enforcement efforts. Officials confirmed that the policy will take effect Friday and will initially target individuals with debts of $100,000 or more. According to data provided by the Department of Health and Human Services, approximately 2,700 passport holders fall into that category.
The move builds on a long-standing federal law enacted in 1996 that allows the government to deny or revoke passports for individuals with overdue child support. Until now, enforcement has largely been limited to cases where individuals applied for passport renewals or other services. Under the updated approach, federal agencies will proactively identify delinquent parents and initiate revocations without waiting for them to interact with the system.
Officials say the goal is to increase compliance with child support obligations by attaching consequences to unpaid debts. “We are expanding a commonsense practice,” a State Department official said, noting that individuals who settle their debts will be eligible to have their passport privileges restored.
The policy is expected to broaden significantly in the coming months. While the initial phase focuses on those owing six-figure sums, authorities plan to expand enforcement to include parents who owe more than $2,500—the threshold outlined in federal law. That change could affect many thousands more Americans once data collection from state agencies is complete.
The government has long used passport restrictions as a tool to recover unpaid child support. Since the program began in the late 1990s, officials say it has helped collect hundreds of millions of dollars in overdue payments. Supporters argue that the threat of losing international travel privileges provides a strong incentive for compliance, particularly in high-debt cases.
However, the policy also raises practical concerns for affected individuals. Those whose passports are revoked while abroad will be required to obtain emergency travel documents from U.S. embassies or consulates in order to return home.
As the new enforcement phase begins, federal officials are signaling a broader push to strengthen accountability in child support cases, using travel restrictions as a key lever to ensure parents meet their financial responsibilities.
Texas Responds to Uptick in ‘Bad Teachers’
May 7, 2026 – State officials have rolled out a new tool aimed at strengthening safeguards for students by improving how educator misconduct is tracked across agencies in Texas. The Texas Education Agency recently connected to the Search Engine for Multi-Agency Reportable Conduct, or SEMARC, a centralized pre-screening system designed to flag individuals with records of serious misconduct.
The system compiles data from multiple sources, including the state’s Do Not Hire Registry, which lists individuals deemed ineligible to work in public schools. By consolidating records involving allegations such as abuse, neglect, exploitation, and other forms of misconduct, officials say SEMARC is intended to streamline background checks and prevent problematic hires from slipping through gaps between agencies.
The rollout follows earlier adoption by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, which began using the system in live operations this spring. Additional agencies—including the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services and the Texas Health and Human Services Commission—are expected to integrate with the platform in the coming months, further expanding its reach.
State leaders say the goal is to create a more unified safety net, ensuring that information about misconduct follows individuals across different parts of the public sector. The move comes amid increasing attention to accountability and transparency in schools and youth-serving institutions.
In addition to SEMARC, the Texas Education Agency recently launched an interactive Educator Misconduct Reporting Dashboard, offering the public a clearer view of reported incidents. According to the dashboard, more than 10,000 misconduct reports have been filed so far in the 2025–26 school year—an average of about 1,550 per month.
Officials say the combination of expanded data sharing and public reporting tools marks a significant step toward improving oversight and protecting students. While the effectiveness of the system will depend on consistent reporting and coordination, state agencies are signaling a broader push to close loopholes and respond more quickly to potential risks in schools.
Grand Prairie Cancels “Muslims Only” Event
May 7, 2026 – A planned private event at a city-owned water park in Grand Prairie has been canceled following mounting public criticism and pressure from state officials. The event, known as “DFW Epic Eid,” had been scheduled for June 1 at Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark, a facility owned by the city and operated by a private management company.
The controversy began after media personalities, including Sara Gonzales, drew attention to promotional materials describing the gathering as a “Muslim only” event that would be closed to the general public. While organizers later revised the wording to remove the phrase “Muslim only,” the event was still described as being exclusively reserved for Muslims, continuing to draw scrutiny and debate over whether such restrictions were appropriate on public property.
Critics argued that hosting an event limited to a specific religious group at a taxpayer-funded venue raised legal and ethical concerns. Supporters, however, viewed it as a private cultural celebration similar to other community-specific gatherings.
The issue escalated when Greg Abbott issued an ultimatum to city officials, demanding written confirmation by May 11 that the event would not take place on city-owned property. Abbott warned that failure to comply could result in the loss of more than $530,000 in state grant funding.
Facing the potential financial consequences and ongoing backlash, city leaders opted to cancel the event. A spokesperson confirmed the decision, stating it was made “in the best interest of the City of Grand Prairie.”
The cancellation highlights the ongoing tension between religious accommodation and the use of public facilities, a debate likely to continue in similar cases across Texas and beyond.
Bond Total Set at $900,000 Across Drug Ring Suspects
May 6, 2026 – Three suspects arrested with a large amount of drugs, cash and weapons remain in the Hopkins County Jail as their bonds were set across multiple felonies. Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office investigators rounded up the three suspects after serving a warrant at a Sulphur Springs apartment complex. During the search, investigators recovered a substantial quantity of illegal substances and contraband, including:
- 309 grams of cocaine
- 1,677.5 grams of THC vape pens
- 73 grams of psilocybin mushrooms
- 15 pounds of marijuana
- Two AR-platform rifles
- One pistol
- $73,294.02 in U.S. currency
The operation was led by Narcotics Investigator Tanner Steward as part of an ongoing narcotics investigation.
Jorge Benitez Bond Amount Total: $350,000
MAN/DEL CS PG 1 >= 200G < 400G $50,000
MAN/DEL CS PG 2 OR 2-A >= 400G $50,000
MAN/DEL CS PG 2 OR 2-A >= 4G <400G $50.000
POSS MARIJ <= 50 LBS >5LBS $50,000
MONEY LAUNDERING >=$30K<$150K $150,000
Giselle Emilynne Galvan Bond Amount Total $350,000
MAN/DEL CS PG 1 >= 200G < 400G $50,000
MAN/DEL CS PG 2 OR 2-A >= 400G $50,000
MAN/DEL CS PG 2 OR 2-A >= 4G <400G $50.000
POSS MARIJ <= 50 LBS >5LBS $50,000
MONEY LAUNDERING >=$30K<$150K $150,000
Flor D Hurtado Total Bond Amount $200,000
MAN/DEL CS PG 1 >= 200G < 400G $50,000
MAN/DEL CS PG 2 OR 2-A >= 400G $50,000
MAN/DEL CS PG 2 OR 2-A >= 4G <400G $50.000
POSS MARIJ <= 50 LBS >5LBS $50,000
‘Muslims Only’ Event in Dallas Now Welcomes Everyone Who Abides by Dress Code
May 6, 2026 – A religiously themed private event at a taxpayer-funded water park in North Texas has sparked political backlash and renewed debate over public facilities, religious accommodation, and inclusivity after organizers revised promotional materials that originally described the gathering as a “Muslim-only event.”
Initially, Women were required to dress in “burkinis,” and men are required to wear swim trunks and shirts.
The controversy centers on the annual “Epic Eid” celebration, scheduled for June 1 at Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark. The indoor water park, owned by the city of Grand Prairie, has hosted the event in previous years and is partially funded through a voter-approved quarter-cent sales tax.
The event website states that guests should uphold “Islamic etiquette,” just as they do in other mixed-gender spaces.
Organizers initially promoted the event with a flier stating it was “For Muslims only” and required attendees to follow a “modest dress code.” The gathering also advertised halal food, family-oriented entertainment, and designated prayer areas. Women were expected to wear full-coverage swimwear such as burkinis, while men were asked to wear shirts and longer swim trunks.
Halal food refers to food that is permissible under Islamic law. In general, halal food excludes pork, alcohol, and ingredients derived from forbidden sources. For meat to be considered halal, the animal must come from a lawful species such as cattle, sheep, goats, or poultry, and it must be slaughtered according to Islamic guidelines known as dhabihah. During slaughter, a mentally competent Muslim typically recites the name of God, and the animal’s throat is cut swiftly with a sharp knife to sever the major blood vessels while minimizing suffering. The animal must be alive and healthy at the time of slaughter, and the blood is drained from the body because consuming blood is prohibited in Islam. Clean handling and avoiding cross-contamination with non-halal foods are also important parts of halal food preparation.
Criticism escalated quickly on social media and among Texas conservatives, who questioned whether a publicly funded venue could legally host an event appearing to exclude people based on religion. The issue drew the attention of Greg Abbott, who threatened to revoke state public safety grants connected to the venue unless the policy changed.
Following the backlash, event organizer Aminah Knight updated the promotional language and emphasized that the purpose of the gathering was not religious exclusion but creating a comfortable environment for families seeking modest recreation.
“In response to feedback, we have updated our materials to clearly reflect that this is a modest dress-only event, centered around a respectful and family-friendly environment,” Knight said in a statement posted online.
The revised poster removed the phrase “Muslim-only event” and replaced it with “All are welcome.” The updated materials continue to encourage modest attire for all guests attending the private rental.
Supporters of the event argue that faith-based and culturally specific gatherings are common at privately rented venues and say the changes clarify the inclusive intent of the celebration. Critics, however, maintain that the original wording raised legitimate constitutional and ethical concerns because of the public ownership of the facility.
The dispute comes amid broader political tensions in Texas surrounding Islam, religious freedom, and public accommodations. In recent months, Muslim advocacy organizations and several community leaders have also criticized Abbott over his past designation of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, or CAIR, as linked to extremism — a characterization opponents have called inflammatory and defamatory.
Despite the controversy, organizers say the Eid celebration will proceed as planned, now under revised guidelines welcoming attendees of all backgrounds willing to follow the event’s modest dress expectations.
Attorney General Ken Paxton Investigates Drone Company for Threatening Texans’ Security and Privacy by Selling Surveillance Products That Are Likely Tied to Communist China
May 6, 2026 – Attorney General Ken Paxton has opened an investigation into Drone Nerds, LLC (“Drone Nerds”) over the company’s connection to Anzu Robotics, LLC (“Anzu”). Anzu is a known affiliate of the Chinese Communist Party (“CCP”).
Anzu is a China-affiliated company that has marketed and sold drones in the United States. The company has done this while misrepresenting its security and privacy measures and concealing its ties to the CCP. These products raise serious concerns, including unauthorized data collection, surveillance capabilities, and potential access by the Chinese government. In February 2026, Attorney General Paxton sued Anzu to end the company’s deceptive practices in Texas and protect consumers from threats to privacy and national security.
In November 2025, XTI Aerospace acquired Drone Nerds and Anzu. Further evidence has suggested that Anzu may be attempting to avoid restrictions by partnering with Drone Nerds as a distributor of its products. The two entities are likely operating together to evade Texas law to continue to sell drones and other products that enable the CCP to spy on Texans. Despite these concerns and previous evidence of Anzu’s Chinese ties, Drone Nerds falsely represents to consumers that Anzu Robotics’ Raptor drone is “headquartered and operated within the United States, giving you the peace of mind that your solution is delivered by your neighbors.”
As part of the investigation, Attorney General Paxton has issued a Civil Investigative Demand (“CID”) to Drone Nerds to determine the extent of the company’s role in misleading Texas consumers in violation of the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act (“DTPA”). This action is part of the Office of the Attorney General’s broader effort to protect Texans from foreign adversaries that seek to exploit technology for surveillance and data collection.
“Under my watch, the Chinese Communist Party will have no influence in Texas,” said Attorney General Paxton. “I will thoroughly investigate any potential threat to the privacy and security of Texans and hold any company that enables CCP surveillance accountable.”
Commissioner Miller Recognizes Mental Health Awareness Month 2026
Theme “More Good Days, Together” highlights the importance of community, connection, and support across rural Texas
May 6, 2026 – AUSTIN — Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller today recognized May as Mental Health Awareness Month, urging farmers, ranchers, and rural communities to support one another in prioritizing mental health. This year’s theme, “More Good Days, Together,” underscores the crucial role of connection and community support in maintaining mental health.
“Folks in agriculture are some of the toughest people you’ll ever meet, but that doesn’t mean they don’t carry a heavy load,” Commissioner Miller said. “This month is about making sure our farmers, ranchers, and rural families know they don’t have to carry it alone. We all deserve more good days, and we get there together.”
The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) supports producers through targeted initiatives. Agricultural producers in crisis and their family members can call or text the TDA AgriStress Helpline for 24/7, free, confidential support tailored to the agricultural community. The helpline is staffed by trained professionals who understand the realities of farm life.
“Sometimes the toughest thing you can do is ask for help,” Commissioner Miller said. “But programs like AgriStress are there for a reason. Reaching out is a sign of strength. Looking out for your neighbor is just part of who we are in rural Texas.”
Agricultural producers face a unique combination of pressures that can endanger mental health. Economic uncertainty, natural disasters, and isolation all contribute to chronic stress for farmers and ranchers and their families. Studies show that suicide rates among agricultural producers are roughly three times the rate of the general population in the United States, and in rural communities overall, suicide rates are about 1.7 times higher than in urban areas, highlighting the urgency of addressing mental health issues in agricultural communities.
Additionally, rural Texans seeking mental healthcare resources face significant challenges. Many communities lack access to providers, including psychiatrists and therapists, and residents may travel long distances for care. The TDA State Office of Rural Health (SORH) works to strengthen healthcare access across rural Texas, including behavioral health services. Through grants and other support, the SORH helps ensure that rural communities have the tools and resources needed to thrive.
During May, Commissioner Miller encourages Texans to check in on one another, begin honest, compassionate conversations about mental health, and work together to build stronger, healthier communities. Through connection, support, and community, Texas agriculture can move closer to a future with more good days.
If you are struggling with stress, or know someone who is, please call or text AgriStress at (833) 867-2474, 24 hours a day, to connect with a trained professional. You may also visit the TDA AgriStress webpage.
To learn more about how TDA supports healthcare resources in rural Texas, please visit the State Office of Rural Health website. For more information about Mental Health Awareness month, please visit the Mental Health America website.
