Texas Seeks Payment for Biden Era Immigration Expenses
November 19, 2025 – Texas’ Republican congressional delegation is pressing federal agencies to release more than $11 billion they say was earmarked to reimburse the state for border security costs incurred during the Biden administration. In a letter sent this week, the lawmakers argue that Texas bore an outsized financial burden responding to what they describe as unchecked illegal immigration and escalating drug trafficking along the southern border.
According to the delegation, Texas deployed thousands of state law enforcement officers, expanded National Guard operations, built physical barriers, and launched multi-agency interdiction efforts to stem the flow of migrants and narcotics. They maintain that these actions filled an enforcement gap left by federal authorities and therefore qualify for reimbursement under funding included in the recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill.
The lawmakers say the bill specifically sets aside funds to repay Texas for money spent “protecting Americans” during the previous administration, and they contend that failure to release the funds would amount to ignoring both congressional intent and the state’s urgent financial needs. They also warn that without reimbursement, Texas could face significant strain as it continues to operate large-scale border enforcement initiatives.
Federal agencies have not publicly indicated when or whether the requested funds will be distributed, setting up a potential clash over how border security responsibilities—and costs—should be divided between state and federal governments.
Texas Governor Abbott Labels CAIR and Muslim Brotherhood ‘Foreign Terrorist Organizations’
November 19, 2025 – Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced on November 18, 2025, that he is designating the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) and the Muslim Brotherhood as “foreign terrorist organizations” and transnational criminal organizations. Under a newly enacted state law (Senate Bill 17), the move bans both groups from buying or acquiring real estate in Texas.
Abbott said the organizations pose a threat to the state, accusing them of trying “to forcibly impose Sharia law and establish Islam’s ‘mastership of the world.’” He directed the Texas attorney general to investigate any property transactions tied to the groups and, if necessary, pursue court orders to force divestment or impose civil penalties as high as 50 percent of a property’s market value.
The proclamation cites long-standing concerns about national security. Abbott points to documented links between former CAIR figures and the now-defunct Holy Land Foundation — a charity that was prosecuted and convicted for financing Hamas.
CAIR strongly rejected the designation, calling it a “publicity stunt” rooted in conspiracy theories and anti-Muslim bias. The group threatened legal action, insisting the move has no basis in U.S. law.
Critics also note that federal law, not state law, typically governs the formal designation of foreign terrorist organizations. Under U.S. law, only the Secretary of State can make that call — and neither CAIR nor the Muslim Brotherhood is currently listed on the U.S. State Department’s official list of terrorist organizations.
This action from Abbott comes amid increased scrutiny of Muslim-led initiatives in Texas. Among the flashpoints is a planned community near Dallas, formerly called EPIC City (now rebranded as The Meadow), which some state officials have criticized as an attempt to create an Islamic enclave.
As legal challenges loom and activists raise serious First Amendment concerns, the move by Abbott is shaping up to be a highly contested battle over property rights, religious freedom, and state-level power.
Texas Braces for Flooding Threat as Heavy Rains Target Central and Southern Regions
November 19, 2025 – Texas is preparing for several rounds of heavy rainfall over the next week, raising concerns for potential flooding across parts of the state. Meteorologists warn that a slow-moving storm system will interact with deep Gulf moisture, producing clusters of thunderstorms capable of dropping significant rainfall in a short period of time.
The highest threat is expected in south-central and central Texas, particularly along the Interstate-35 corridor from San Antonio to Austin. Rainfall totals in these areas may reach 1 to 3 inches, with localized pockets receiving up to 6 inches if storms repeatedly track over the same locations. The Hill Country and Edwards Plateau are considered especially vulnerable due to steep terrain and rapid runoff, which can overwhelm creeks, streams, and low-water crossings.
Urban centers, including the San Antonio–Austin metro area, may experience flash flooding in poor-drainage zones, low-lying neighborhoods, and roadways prone to ponding. Officials caution that rapidly rising water levels could make travel hazardous, urging residents to check forecasts frequently and avoid driving through flooded roads.
Impact on Southern Texas
Southern portions of the state may also see heavy rainfall as deep tropical moisture moves inland. Thunderstorms may train over the same areas, increasing the chance of flash flooding in both rural and urban communities. Low-water crossings, especially common in southern and central Texas, are expected to be among the first areas affected.
Flooding Concerns for Hopkins County
While the most intense rainfall is forecast farther south, Hopkins County in northeast Texas is not completely in the clear. Scattered storms are expected throughout the week, and although totals may be lower than in central Texas, brief periods of heavy rain could still trigger localized flooding—particularly in low-lying areas near small creeks, farm roads with poor drainage, and rural crossings west and south of Sulphur Springs.
Residents are advised to remain alert, especially during overnight storms, and to monitor local forecasts for any sudden changes.
A&M CEA Mario Villarino Visited on A Second Cup Of Coffee to Discuss the NETBIO Annual Meeting November 21st
November 19, 2025 – Texas A&M AgriLife Hopkins County Extension Agent Mario Villarino-Gutierrez visited on KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey to talk about the next NETBIO Annual Meeting taking place November 21st, 2025, at 12:00pm, at the Sale Barn in Sulphur Springs, Texas. Mario and John Mark also chatted about the beef industry and it’s future, the dairy industry, and much more. Be sure to check out this interesting episode of A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey.
Traveling For Thanksgiving? Here’s Your Outlook
November 18, 2025 – Thanksgiving travel in Texas is expected to be unusually busy this year, with 5.8 million Texans projected to journey 50 miles or more from home over the holiday period, according to AAA Texas. That number marks a modest but meaningful increase from 2024, signaling high holiday travel demand in the Lone Star State.
Nearly 90% of those travelers plan to drive, with AAA estimating that 5.3 million motorists will hit the highways. On the air-travel front, 328,000 Texans are expected to fly, while about 140,000 may take other modes of transport like buses or trains.
Despite the surge in travel, gas prices provide a silver lining: drivers in Texas will pay around $2.61 per gallon, roughly in line with last year. AAA is urging travelers to plan ahead, calling out Wednesday, November 27, as one of the most congested days as commuters mix with holiday road trippers.
Safety warnings are also in play. AAA is reminding holiday drivers to plan for extra travel time, avoid impaired driving, and take advantage of roadside assistance—expecting thousands of calls for help during the busy travel stretch.
Commissioner Miller Proudly Announces $150,000 Donation by the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo to the STAR Fund
The donation bolsters relief efforts to support central Texas producers
November 18, 2025 – AUSTIN – Commissioner of Agriculture Sid Miller recently announced a generous $150,000 donation by the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo to the State of Texas Agriculture Relief (STAR) Fund to bolster ongoing relief efforts for the central Texas agriculture community impacted by the tragic July flooding. STAR Fund applications are still being accepted and will close on November 30th. The donation is part of a larger $500,000 total that the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has donated for flood recovery efforts in the Texas Hill Country.
“Beyond the heartbreaking loss of life, this disaster also tore through our farms, ranches, and rural communities across Central Texas,” Commissioner Miller said. “I thank the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo for their fundraising efforts and generous $150,000 donation to the STAR Fund. This demonstrates their strong commitment to helping the community of Central Texas. The STAR Fund stands ready to assist producers in their effort to rebuild vital agricultural infrastructure lost in the devastating July flooding.
The STAR Fund (State of Texas Agriculture Relief Fund), funded by private donations without cost to the taxpayer, supports disaster recovery for eligible farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses with rebuilding and relief needs. STAR Fund grants will be available to eligible agriculture operations for rebuilding fence lines, repairing barns, replacing equipment, and restoring lost forage and feed supplies.
“As the world’s largest livestock show and rodeo, we understand the responsibility we have to stand with our neighbors in times of crisis,” said Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo President and CEO Chris Boleman. “Thousands of people were impacted by the floods, many of whom are exhibitors at our annual event and critical to the agriculture and livestock industries. By supporting these organizations and their projects, we’re helping ensure they can continue their important work and focus on the future.”
To qualify, a business must be in a county listed in the Texas Governor’s disaster declaration, including counties Bandera, Bexar, Burnet, Caldwell, Coke, Comal, Concho, Edwards, Gillespie, Guadalupe, Hamilton, Kendall, Kerr, Kimble, Lampasas, Llano, Mason, Maverick, McCulloch, Menard, Real, Reeves, San Saba, Schleicher, Sutton, Tom Green, Travis, Uvalde, and Williamson.
“We recognize the impact this disaster has had on families, farms, and programs vital to the Hill Country, which is why the Rodeo has chosen to support these organizations,” said Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Chairman of the Board Pat Mann Phillips. “We are also humbled by the courage of our volunteers, who stepped in without hesitation, risking their own safety, and giving their time and resources to help those in need. Their selflessness reflects the heart of our organization.”
This past summer, flooding swept across Central Texas, unleashing catastrophic damage caused by rapid floodwaters sweeping across ranches and crop fields, and infrastructure was destroyed or severely damaged. Months later, producers are still struggling to rebuild vital production infrastructure.
“When disaster strikes our agriculture backbone, the STAR Fund is here to lend a helping hand,” Commissioner Miller added. “Time is running out. I urge all eligible producers who faced agricultural infrastructure damage to apply. I also invite individuals, businesses, and organizations across Texas to donate, because our rural and farming neighbors still need our support.”
Eligible producers in countries affected by the July 4th floods may visit the TDA website for eligibility criteria and application forms. The deadline for applications is November 30th at midnight. To apply, visit the STAR Fund website.
Health Care Foundation’s Annual Snowflake Campaign Kicks Off
November 17, 2025 – Sulphur Springs, TX – It is not too early to think of snowflakes and the holiday season! November is the month that the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation kicks off its annual Snowflake Campaign. The Snowflake mailer was recently mailed and the website is available to accept donations.
The community is invited to pay tribute to friends and family members with a gift in their honor or memory. The Foundation will then send a notification to the honorees or designated contact to make them aware of the gift.
In addition, an intricate snowflake bearing the name of the individual being recognized is displayed in the main lobby of CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs. It won’t be long before the foyer will be filled with snowflakes on the windows and twinkling with lights on the Christmas tree.
This end-of-year holiday campaign began as one of the first offerings of the Foundation. Originally, donors sponsored lights on the hospital’s Christmas tree to recognize friends and loved ones. The concept was later altered to be outdoor luminaires displayed in the Gardens at Memorial. A few years ago, the snowflakes became the symbol of the campaign.
The hospital lobby is the perfect place to recognize those we hold dear. The area is filled with an elaborately decorated Christmas tree that stands tall as guests are welcomed to the hospital. Snowflakes add to the scene by alighting on the outside windows as well as the Johnnie Masters Gift Shop. It is a breathtaking scene to behold!
The recommended donation for each person honored is $25 or more. Recognition of individuals makes a lovely seasonal gift. It is a great way to tell someone they are thought of during the holiday season and a wonderful way to pay tribute to a deceased friend or loved one.
Donations may be mailed to the Foundation or made online at the Foundation’s webpage. Please include contact information for the donor as well as the individuals to whom an acknowledgment of the recognition should be sent. Additional information to includes the name(s) of the individual(s) to be added to the snowflakes as well as if the gift is in honor of or memory of the person.
The Foundation’s Snowflake Campaign website can be found at Snowflake2025.GiveSmart.com. The
Hopkins County Health Care Foundation is an IRS 501 (c) 3 not-for-profit organization.
As the Foundation has been taking a walk down memory lane due to the upcoming 20 th anniversary of the Gala, it is appropriate to share a few throwback photos of the annual Christmas Campaign, starting with the Lights of Life kickoff held outdoors in 2008.
The annual celebration was held in the newly funded Gardens at Memorial and centered around the Christmas tree. This was a wonderful outdoor celebration to start the holiday season for many years from 2008 until 2021.
The CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs lobby is awaiting the installation of its Christmas tree. Soon after, the snowflakes will start to adorn the windows as the holiday season is ushered in. To learn more or participate in the Snowflake Campaign, visit Snowflake2025.GiveSmart.com.
To recognize a friend or loved one with a snowflake, visit Snowflake2025.Givesmart.com.
The 2025 United Way Workers met up at the Campaign Thermometer November 13th to Celebrate Going Over Their Goal
November 16, 2025 – The 2025-2026 Hopkins County United Way workers met up at the Campaign Thermometer November 13th, 2025, to celebrate one last time for going over their goal. This is the Hopkins County United Way’s 70th year of raising funds for very important and needy organizations. Their original goal for this year was set at a high $170,000.00. Not only did they reach this goal, they have gone above it, with donations still coming in. As of last week the Campaign Total was $182,079.00, with more to come!
Below is KSST/Cable Channel 18’s coverage of this celebration and photo opp at the Campaign Thermometer located on Gilmer Street in Sulphur Springs, Texas. There’s still time to donate. For more details, go to www.hcuw.org. KSST, Cable Channel 18, and ksstradio.com thank the Hopkins County United Way, and congratulate them on reaching beyond their goal, and thank you, Hopkins County, for making this possible.
Paris District Road Report for November 17, 2025
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 November 17, 2025. 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.
Safety Message: Flash Floods
Flash flooding is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in Texas. If you encounter a flooded road, “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
- Never walk, swim, or drive through still or moving flood waters. The water may be hiding dangers such as debris, tree branches, power lines, or damage to the road. As little as six inches of fast-moving water can cause motorists to lose control of their vehicle, even a pickup truck or SUV.
- Stay informed about weather conditions when you are driving.
- Be especially careful driving at night when it can be harder to see flood dangers.
- If your vehicle stalls in deep water, leave it and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
Here’s the law
- Never drive around barriers blocking low water crossings or flooded roadways. Penalties include a fine of up to $2,000 and/or up to 180 days in jail.
- Tampering with roadway warning signs or barriers is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, up to two years in jail, or both.
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 were converted to one-way traffic on Wednesday, June 11th. This one-way conversion happened on both the east and west sides of US 75 from FM 121 to Blythe/Farmington Road. Lane closures will be in place in order to complete pavement repairs and to overlay the roadway with a new surface. After the pavement work is complete, both lanes of the frontage roads will be opened to traffic. There will be a section of frontage road near Northridge Road and Simmons Loop that will be reduced to one lane in order to construct the new u-turn bridge over US 75.
The frontage roads in Van Alstyne on both the east and west sides of US 75 from County Line Road (CR 375/Panther Parkway) to FM 121 are one-way roads. The pavement work is completed, and both lanes of the frontage roads are open to traffic. 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.
US 75 frontage roads in Howe were converted to one-way traffic on October 23. This one-way conversion happened on both the east and west sides of US 75 from Blythe Rd to Hanning St. Lane closures will be in place during the conversion in order to complete pavement repairs and to overlay the roadway with a new surface. After the pavement work is completed, both lanes of the frontage roads will be opened to traffic.
The following ramp closures will be in place to safely perform the overlay work on the frontage roads.
- US 75 southbound entrance from Blythe Rd to be closed for few hours on November 17 between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
- US 75 southbound exit to FM 121 (Exit 51) to be closed for few hours on November 17 between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM.
- US 75 southbound entrance from Blythe Rd to be closed for few hours on November 18 between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM.
- US 75 southbound exit to FM 121 (Exit 51) to be closed for few hours on November 18 between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM
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 December 1, 2025, from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM. This is a long-term closure, and drivers should use the adjacent exits.
Eastbound/Westbound Taylor St. will remain closed until April 2026.
US 75 southbound & northbound mainlanes from N. Travis to Loy Lake Rd will have nightly lane closure from November 10 to November 31 from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM. These closures will be short duration closures for mobile operations.
US 75 northbound frontage road from Lamberth to north of westbound frontage road will have nightly lane closure from November 10 to November 31 from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM. These closures will be short duration closures for mobile operations.
US 75 northbound & southbound frontage road from Lamberth to north of westbound frontage road will have daily lane closure from November 10 to November 31 from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. These closures will be short duration closures for mobile operations.
Starting on November 14th through November 25th, excluding Sundays, the eastbound and westbound traffic on FM 691 will experience alternating lane closures. These closures are necessary for the installation of temporary traffic signals at the intersection of FM 691 and the frontage roads. One-lane will be maintained in each direction during this time.
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. During this closure traffic on westbound Spur 503 will be required to detour onto the frontage road at the temporary exit ramp west of Theresa Drive and continue along the frontage road to the Loy Lake Road intersection where traffic can make the U-turn to continue south on the US 75 frontage road to the entrance ramp before the FM 691 intersection, or traffic can continue along the northbound frontage road through the Loy Lake Road intersection and take the next entrance ramp to northbound 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 75 Overlay, from near FM 84 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for lane closures on northbound and southbound US 75 as crews will be working each night from Sunday night through Friday morning during the overnight period. Lane closures will be present at night for crews to overlay the roadway with hotmix. Lane closures will begin at 7:30 pm each night and should be reopened to traffic by 6 a.m.
US 75 full depth concrete repair, from the Collin County line to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for lane closures on northbound and southbound US 75 as crews will be working each night from Sunday night through Friday morning during the overnight period. Lane closures will be present at night for crews to replace failed concrete sections. Lane closures will begin at 7:30 p.m. each night and should be reopened to traffic by 6 a.m. This work will extend from the Collin-Grayson County line to the Oklahoma State line.
SH 5, in Van Alstyne from Williams Way to Blassingame Avenue. Watch for daytime lane closures on SH 5 as crews work to install a shared use bicycle and pedestrian trail. The trail will follow along SH 5 from the existing trail at Williams Way to Blassingame Avenue, then along Tolson Avenue, then along Main Street where it will connect with Van Alstyne Parkway. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 121, from Main Street in Van Alstyne to SH 160. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews work to finalize the rehabilitation and widening of the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers may be directing traffic through the work zone.
US 82, from the 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.
US 377 in Tioga, from South of FM 922 to North of McKnight Rd. and from Hinton St. to Shawnee Dr. This project will widen US 377 on each side of the roadway to allow for the addition of a center left-turn lane. This project will also install traffic signals at the intersection of US 377 & FM 121 and at the intersection of US 377 & FM 922. Watch for shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 377 main lanes as well as on FM 922. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
Two new traffic signals in Tioga will be activated next week. The new traffic signals will be activated at the US 377 & FM 922 intersection and at the US 377 & FM 121 intersection. The intersections are currently a stop condition for traffic on FM 922 and FM 121. The new signals will be placed into all-red flash mode on Wednesday, November 12 to start getting drivers’ attention. The traffic signals will be fully activated to signal mode on Wednesday, November 19. Message boards are in place on US 377, FM 922 and FM 121 to alert the public about the upcoming change. Message boards will remain in place for a week after the change to full activation to help with advanced notification.
Southmayd Rd at Elba Creek, The bridge at Elba Creek was closed beginning June 25. The Contractor demolished the bridge and started replacing it. During the closure, traffic is asked to use Frog Pond Rd & Spalding Rd or Klas Rd & Hazelwood Rd.
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 safety 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.
Sister Grove Rd., Contractor closed the bridge on Sister Grove Rd at West Prong Sister Grove Creek to replace the existing bridge. The Contractor completed the bridge replacement work and opened it to traffic on October 31. The Contractor will continue working on the remaining minor items with occasional daily lane closures. Drivers are requested to slow down, watch for construction workers and obey construction signs as they travel through the work zone.
Prescott Rd, Southmayd. Contractor will be performing bridge replacement work on the Prescott Road bridge located between Johnny Watson Road and Jelley Road in Grayson County. The bridge on Prescott Road will be closed in both directions until the bridge replacement work is completed. The bridge will remain closed until March 2026. The Contractor plans to close the bridge and begin work at the end of November, weather permitting. Road closure signs will be installed on the roads leading to the project to inform drivers. Drivers can use Johnny Watson Road, Jelley Road and Southmayd Road as an alternate route.
SH 289 North of FM 120. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform edge work on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 56 west of Southmayd. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform level up/seal coat preparation work on the roadway. 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 the 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 68, at the North Sulphur River bridge. FM 68 at the North Sulphur River bridge replacement is completed and the bridge is open to traffic. However, construction crews will continue working on the remaining bridge structure and roadway final works. During this final stage, traffic is asked to watch for workers and equipment and drive slowly when going through the work zone.
FM 2645, from FM 898 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.
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 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 competed 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 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary. CR 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary was closed to traffic on Monday, April 21 to allow for replacement of the bridge. The bridge at Sanders Creek Tributary is completed and opened to traffic. The bridge on CR 2825 at Sanders Creek was closed on June 21 & the Contractor demolished the bridge. The bridge is now completed and opened to traffic.
SH 78, from FM 981 to FM 815. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform overlay operations on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic 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 performing surfacing operations. Watch for lane shifts within the work area. Expect slower moving traffic.
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.
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:
US 82 / Lamar Avenue, from 42nd street in Paris to Division Street in Blossom. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews perform pavement repairs and resurfacing.
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.
US 271, at the intersection of FM 2648 and at the intersection of FM 3298. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures as crews install roadway illumination within the right of way.
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 271, Lamar & Red River Counties: from FM 196 North to SH 37. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews remove tree and brush from within right of way.
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 195, at Six Mile Creek. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews perform bridge maintenance.
Delta County:
SH 24, at Doctor’s Creek. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews perform bridge maintenance on the northbound structure.
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. The contractor is performing flex base work on the south end of the project, and asphalt paving on the north end of the project. Contractor is also performing maintenance on driveways. Please slow down and 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 is currently working base material. Contractor will be fog sealing this week. One-way flagger operations are currently set up through the work zone. Expect minor delays. 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 performing excavation and embankment work. 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. Contractor is laying driveway pipes and installing culverts. Pavement testing will be performed this week. Flagger controlled traffic control is in place during construction operations. Expect slight delays and follow pilot vehicle. 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. Drill shafts are installed at FM 1903. 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. Contractor will be performing cement treatment and hot mix paving for detours around FM 36 and FM 1570 area frontage roads. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
District Wide Lighting / Safety Improvement. Contractor is setting light poles and electrical services on SH 24 and FM 1528, and SH 24 at BU 24. 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 and sign repair work, and mailboxes throughout Hunt and Rains County.
Hunt County maintenance crew will be performing spot base repair on FM 2358. Edge work will be performed on FM 1565, from IH-30 to SH 66. Flaggers will be present at both locations. Crew will be performing bridge maintenance work in various locations. Maintenance contractors will be performing guardrail repair at various locations.
Rains County maintenance section will be performing roadway prep work on FM 1565. Right of Way vegetation management will be taking place in various locations. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
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Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins Signals Nationwide SNAP Reapplication; Millions Could Be Affected
November 16, 2025 – Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said this week that she intends to require all SNAP recipients to reapply for their benefits, a sweeping step that could affect 42 million low-income Americans who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. The announcement comes just days after the federal government reopened, ending a record shutdown that had already strained food assistance programs nationwide.
Rollins shared the plan during an interview with Newsmax, saying the reapplication effort is part of the Trump administration’s broader push to reduce fraud and tighten eligibility oversight. But with few details released so far, states and advocacy groups are uncertain how the process will unfold—or how quickly.
“We’re going to have everyone reapply,” Rollins said, adding that reforms are aimed at ensuring accuracy within the system. The administration has not clarified whether current beneficiaries would lose benefits during the review process, or what additional documentation might be required.
Politico reporter Grace Yarrow, speaking with LiveNow from FOX, said the move aligns with a larger Republican initiative to reshape federal food assistance. “This is part of a bigger push to crack down on fraud,” Yarrow explained, noting that the proposal could create significant administrative burdens for both states and families.
If implemented quickly, the reapplication requirement could overwhelm state benefits offices still recovering from the shutdown, when delayed paychecks and instability caused a spike in emergency food requests. Advocacy groups warn that millions could experience gaps in assistance if states are unable to process the massive wave of applications in time.
Texas alone serves nearly four million SNAP recipients, many of whom are still navigating backlogs from the shutdown period. Local officials say they’re waiting for guidance from the USDA before preparing for what could be one of the largest administrative overhauls in the program’s history.
For now, stability for millions of families remains uncertain as they await clearer instructions from Washington.
