Sloanstead Goods Farm Stand Open in Sulphur Springs
August 27, 2024 – Sulphur Springs resident Grace Sloan has opened a Farm Stand stocked with goodies on Jefferson St.
The stand is stocked with sourdough loaves, scones, cookies, muffins other breads (such as baguettes, sandwich loaves, bagels, english muffins and focaccias). On Saturdays, she features cinnamon rolls!
I don’t put the same stuff out every day, so I always recommend people check my socials to see what we have out that day!
Grace is a stay at home mom, and hopes to expand the baked goods business in the future. She also gardens, and local produce is available seasonally. Grace and her husband have recently added more chickens to their flock, and eggs are also available Wednesday through Saturday. Currently the eggs are provided by Molesworth Family Farm. They are out of Brashear, TX and are close family friends.
Find out more about Grace and what she has in stock, Wednesday through Saturday, by clicking here.
Hopkins County Genealogical Society to Hold Next Lunch & Learn August 28th
August 27, 2024 – The Fourth Wednesday Lunch & Learn will be held this coming Wednesday, August 28, 2024, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. at 611 North Davis St., Sulphur Springs, Tx. The Hopkins County Genealogical Society invites anyone who wants to learn more about doing genealogical research to come on in. Bring your sack lunch, salad or drive-through meal and your tablet or laptop, if you wish.
Last month our society president, John A. Sellers, presented the “FamilySearch Experiment,” during which he showed us how to maneuver through this new test site for FamilySearch, what it consists of and what is included. Much of his talk involved searching for people using property descriptions and land records, but how do you use them once you have found them? This month we will view a presentation by Amy Crow Johnson of Generations Connections, entitled “Understanding Land Records – Using Land Records Effectively.” There is so much to be learned about land deeds and other legal land documents and how to apply them to your genealogical research.
We hope you will join us!
DPS Recognizes Courageous Acts at August PSC Meeting
August 26, 2024 – AUSTIN – The Public Safety Commission (PSC), along with Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw, recognized the service of several Texans at the PSC meeting at DPS Headquarters in Austin. Commissioners and Director McCraw presented one Medal of Valor, three Director’s Awards, five Lifesaving Awards and one Unit Citation.
“These awards highlight some of the most selfless acts of heroism in Texas,” said Director McCraw. “The stories of the individuals who were recognized this morning show just a glimpse of the passion Texans–both inside and outside of the department–have for keeping people across our state safe. We are truly fortunate to have such a remarkable group of people making a difference in their communities.”
The following people were recognized:
MEDAL OF VALOR:
The Medal of Valor is the highest award presented by DPS, and is given to someone who intelligently distinguishes themselves at the risk of his or her own life. It must be the type of deed which, if left undone, would not subject him to any justifiable criticism. The act must be far above and beyond the normal call of duty.
On Oct. 17, 2023, a Staff Sergeant within the Texas Rangers Special Operations Group was alerted of a multi-agency pursuit involving two armed suspects who fired multiple gunshots at officers, including one from the San Benito Police Department. He immediately responded and maneuvered his patrol car past other pursuing units, intentionally placing himself in danger by moving closer to the suspect vehicle. Using his patrol rifle, he shot through his windshield to deflate the suspect’s left rear tire. Traveling at speeds over 100 miles per hour, the suspect continued to evade toward the Brownsville Port of Entry – a populated area with many pedestrians and heavy vehicle traffic. This Staff Sergeant then successfully initiated a PIT maneuver on the suspect’s vehicle, causing it to spin out and stop. Afterward, he pinned the suspect vehicle against a fence with his patrol unit, and the two suspects fled on foot into a neighborhood. One suspect was quickly apprehended by the Staff Sergeant. While another Texas Highway Patrol Trooper completed the arrest of the first suspect, he moved toward an alley area in search of the second. During the manhunt, DPS’ Aircraft Operations Division assisted officers on the ground in tracking the second suspect and located him at a nearby residence. Unaware of whether the suspect was armed, he jumped a fence and entered the yard to find the suspect hiding between a water heater and house. At significant risk of harm to himself, the Staff Sergeant approached the individual to physically remove and arrest him. Tragically, gunfire from the suspect’s vehicle also resulted in the death of a San Benito Police Officer.
In recognition of the courageous and exemplary way he honored his law enforcement duties during a life-threatening situation, this Staff Sergeant was awarded the Medal of Valor.
DIRECTOR’S AWARD:
On May 29, 2024, a citizen suddenly became unresponsive during a Texas Senate hearing at the State Capitol. The individual was removed from his seat and placed on the floor for care by two bystanders. Laura Rogers, who was attending the hearing, immediately began a medical assessment and determined the individual was experiencing agonal breathing and had a faint pulse. Without hesitation, Ms. Rogers began CPR compressions while an AED was retrieved. Ms. Rogers continued CPR for seven minutes and the patient was shocked three times before EMS arrived. Upon their arrival, Ms. Rogers provided EMS personnel with essential information about the patient before transporting him to a local medical center. The patient’s condition later improved and he began breathing on his own.
In recognition of her significant and decisive response to a life-threatening situation resulting in the saving of a life, Laura Rogers was awarded the Director’s Award.
LIFESAVING & DIRECTOR’S AWARD:
On April 5, 2024, while driving over the John Arredondo Bridge in Rosenberg, Special Agent Paul Struve (Houston) noticed an individual sitting on the bridge rail with her feet hanging over the edge. Believing this individual was preparing to jump, Struve quickly turned his patrol vehicle around and radioed the Rosenberg Police Department for additional support. When officers arrived, Struve and Officer Andrew Foulds (Rosenberg Police Department) climbed over the concrete barricade that divided the bridge’s road from the pedestrian sidewalk to get closer. The subject, a juvenile, was sobbing loudly and strong winds were causing her hair to conceal her face. After attempts to speak with the subject were unsuccessful, Struve and Foulds used the strong winds to their advantage by approaching the subject from behind, grabbing her by the shoulders and taking her off the bridge to safety. She was then taken to a hospital for evaluation.
In recognition of their significant and decisive response to a life-threatening situation resulting in the saving of a life, Special Agent Paul Struve was awarded the Lifesaving Award and Officer Andrew Foulds was awarded the Director’s Award.
LIFESAVING & DIRECTOR’S AWARD:
On March 13, 2024, Trooper Bryan Peña (Amarillo) responded to a two-vehicle crash in Dallam County. When he arrived on scene, he observed a woman on the ground with a severe arm injury. Fortunately, Brandon Johnson, an Air Force veteran with first aid training, had stopped at the scene of the crash prior to Trooper Peña’s arrival. Using his first aid training, Mr. Johnson applied a makeshift tourniquet and used Quick Clot to control the bleeding. Trooper Peña assessed the situation and determined a second tourniquet was needed. While the application of the tourniquet was extremely painful, Trooper Peña remained calm and provided the woman with comfort and reassurance. Once the bleeding was under control, the woman was placed in a recovery position until EMS arrived.
In recognition of their significant and decisive response to a life-threatening situation resulting in the saving of a life, Trooper Bryan Peña was awarded the Lifesaving Award and Brandon Johnson was awarded the Director’s Award.
LIFESAVING AWARD:
On April 8, 2024, while conducting counter surveillance around the State Capitol grounds, Special Agent Garrett Ray (Austin) discovered an unresponsive male subject. In a covert surveillance capacity without medical supplies, Ray immediately called for assistance. Once help arrived on scene, it was determined the subject was experiencing a narcotic overdose and a dose of Narcan was administered. Showing no signs of improvement following the first dose, a second dose of Narcan was administered. After the second dose, the subject was placed in the recovery position, where his respiration stabilized and he regained consciousness. EMS assumed medical responsibility and transported the subject to the hospital.
In recognition of his significant and decisive response to a life-threatening situation resulting in the saving of a life, Special Agent Garrett Ray was awarded the Lifesaving Award.
LIFESAVING AWARD:
On Nov. 13, 2023, Trooper Scott Lewis (Freeport) was monitoring visitors and employees as they entered and exited the State Capitol. Trooper Lewis noticed a man lean toward the table, appearing to lose his balance. As Lewis asked the man if he was alright, the man collapsed on the floor. Lewis immediately eased the subject to the ground, began a medical assessment and determined he was not breathing. Sergeant Dakota Keenon (Capitol) arrived and immediately began CPR as Lewis delivered a shock from an AED. The subject regained a pulse and started breathing. EMS arrived on the scene and transported the subject to a medical center.
In recognition of their significant and decisive response to a life-threatening situation resulting in the saving of a life, Sergeant Dakota Keenon and Trooper Scott Lewis were awarded the Lifesaving Award.
LIFESAVING AWARD:
On Oct. 6, 2022, DPS personnel were attending high-risk vehicle stop training when Trooper Edd Holt suffered a sudden cardiac arrest. Trooper Holt had not displayed any signs of discomfort but began to aspirate after a training scenario. Sergeant Mike Garza and Sergeant Freddy Duran rushed to remove Trooper Holt from the vehicle and placed him on the ground. When Trooper Holt stopped breathing, Sergeant Garza immediately began chest compressions. At the same time, Duran contacted 911 and passed the phone to Trooper John Moorman to provide dispatch with information about their location and the medical emergency. Duran retrieved an AED from his vehicle and applied it to Holt in between chest compressions. Lieutenant Juan Spivey; Sergeants Heath Bell and Shawn Droddy; and Troopers Damon Williams, Bryan Dorsey and Stephen Nall, who were all at the scene, assisted with CPR rotations and coordinated the emergency response. Upon arrival, EMS assumed medical care and transported him to a local hospital for further treatment.
In recognition of their significant and decisive response to a life-threatening situation resulting in the saving of a life, Lieutenant Juan Spivey (Bryan), Sergeants Mike Garza (Harlingen) and Heath Bell (Texarkana), Ranger Shawn Droddy (Snyder), Sergeant Freddy Duran (San Marcos) and Troopers John Moorman (Kerrville), Damon Williams (McKinney), Bryan Dorsey (Waxahachie) and Stephen Nall (Granbury) were awarded the Lifesaving Award.
UNIT CITATION AWARD:
In October 2009, the Texas Department of Public Safety Bicycle Patrol Unit (Capitol) began as a pilot program under the Texas Highway Patrol with six Troopers. After their initial training, the Unit’s first deployment was at a college football game, where they apprehended a suspect involved in a stabbing at a tailgate party. This incident would solidify the Unit’s place in the department.
Since becoming a full-time unit in 2016, the Bicycle Patrol Unit is now the go-to Unit to separate opposing crowds during rallies, protests and general gatherings across Texas. Today, the Bicycle Patrol Unit remains the premier Unit at the Capitol Complex, providing highway patrol duties, community policing, complex security, training and school visits. The Unit has also been deployed outside of the Capitol Complex to assist other law enforcement agencies with high-profile events across the state. The Bicycle Patrol Unit exemplifies teamwork, professionalism and dedication. Their presence at community events, schools and neighborhood gatherings has fostered positive relationships and promoted safety awareness.
In recognition of their hard work and dedication, the Bicycle Patrol Unit–including Guy Hoffman, Dorian Turner, Michael Telles, Gabriel Macias, Tony Rico, Burke Wray, Ramiro Brito, Andrew Meyer, Thomas Goodson, Jason Galaviz, Tim Gage, Jose Montemayor, Nick Salzer, Steven Smallwood, Jesse Chambers, Marvin Maiten, Michael Reisen, Joseph Osborne, Brandon Zellous, Joseph Stuart, Nathaniel Head, Adrian Castillo, Joshua Delagarza, Bryan Fife, Evan Nazareno, Marcos Damian, Paul Martin, and Scott Brackelsberg—is awarded the Unit Citation.
CBP officers seize $1.8 million in methamphetamine at Progreso Port of Entry
August 26, 2024 – PROGRESO, Texas—U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations officers at the Progreso Port of Entry seized nearly 200 pounds of methamphetamine valued at $1.8 million in a single enforcement action.
“Our frontline CBP officers remain vigilant on narcotic interdiction. This seizure exemplifies their dedication to CBP’s border security mission and their commitment to keeping dangerous drugs from coming into the country and infiltrating our community’s streets,” said Port Director Walter Weaver, Progreso/Donna Port of Entry.
The seizure occurred Aug. 22 at the Progreso International Bridge when a CBP officer referred a vehicle driven by a 27-year-old male U.S. citizen for secondary inspection. CBP officers conducted a secondary examination that included utilization of a non-intrusive inspection system and CBP canines. Upon further physical examination, CBP officers discovered 108 packages containing 196 pounds of alleged methamphetamine within the vehicle. The narcotics had an estimated street value of $1,804,208.
CBP seized the narcotics and vehicle. Homeland Security Investigations special agents arrested the driver and initiated a criminal investigation.
Follow the Director of CBP’s Laredo Field Office on X at @DFOLaredo and also U.S. Customs and Border Protection at @CBPSouthTexas for breaking news, current events, human interest stories and photos.
Dinner Bell for August 28, 2024
Coming to Sulphur Springs, Texas from California in January, 2016, Diversified Storage Systems designs and produces dry power storage transfer equipment and silos. This equipment meets the needs of such industries as construction, mining, import and manufacturing. These silos can be used to store dry powders such as cement, fly ash, grout and more. A rental option, the only one in the U.S., is also available for bulk storage units.
Diversified partners with Dinner Bell feeding ministry quarterly and also sponsors, contributes or participates in: the High School Soccer team, the Healthcare Foundation Annual Gala, the Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament, and the Senior Center “wish list” to name several community endeavors of the business. Dinner Bell appreciates Diversified Storage System and Michelle and Tim Dollison for their continued support.
The Hopkins County United Way is a support organization for local non-profit entities. It became a reality in 1955 when concerned citizens decided to do fundraising at one time for all the different organizations that qualified for funding. As in the beginning, the campaign is conducted in October and run by volunteers. The goal for 2024-2025 is $160,000 and will benefit 18 entities. Today we recognize the benefit of the United Way to Sulphur Springs and Hopkins County. Dinner Bell has been blessed to be a participating group since 2014.
Grab and Go with a meal from the distribution area under the covered driveway (porte cochere) on the Northeast corner of the First United Methodist Church campus starting around 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday.
MENU
Chicken Spaghetti
Brown Sugar Tarragon Carrots
Garden Salad
Peach Cobbler Crisp
Take care of YOURSELF by following safe health practices as flu and COVID are lurking in our midst! Wear masks where required! Wash your hands often! Get inoculated and boosted
DINNER BELL CARES ABOUT YOUR HEALTH !!!
Hopkins County Lowers Tax Rate, Fails to Move Forward on Latest Tax Abatement
August 26, 2025- For the fourth year in a row, the Hopkins County Commissioner’s Court approved a reduction in the county tax rate of over 9 cents. Hopkins County Tax Assessor/Collector Debbie Pogue Mitchell proposed the lower tax rate of .40022 which is more than 9 and 1/2 cent reduction from the current rate of .49587. The Hopkins County Commissioner’s Court unanimously agreed to the new lower rate.
The calculation of the prevailing tax rate is a complicated matter as Texas Counties are only able to increase the amount of income from tax collections to a maximum of 3.5% over the previous year. With increases in property tax assessments as well as new construction, new equipement, and other factors, the amount Hopkins County would collect would be greater than the 3.5% increase hence the lowering of the overall tax rate to satisfy state-madated ceiling.
Another item on Monday’s agenda was moved up to the beginning of the meeting as the courtroom was filled with concerned parties and spectators interested in the tax abatement request by Sligsol, LLC. Sligsol proposed an agreement to receive a tax abatement on 515 acres in western Hopkins County along County Road 4725. Jeff Snowden, a consultant for Hopkins County, explained the PILOT program (Payment in lieu of taxes) propsed to Sligsol, LLC to “lock-in” revenue for the first ten years of the project. Passionate pleas were heard from neighbors of the project as well as interested parties in the county for the Hopkins County Commissioner’s Court to “pump the brakes” on all tax abatements in the confines of the county limits. A Sligsol representative explained that the long term employment of the project would only produce 2 to 3 full-time jobs once construction of the $108 million project was completed.
After much discussion, the agenda item which had been tabled from an earlier meeting failed to get a motion carried to be moved back to the court for a vote during this meeting. The agenda item of voting on the tax abatement remains in limbo and could be listed on an upcoming agend for another commissioner’s court public meeting.
DPS Welcomes 101 New Troopers to Texas Highway Patrol
August 23, 2024 – AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) commissioned 101 new Texas Highway Patrol Troopers from recruit Class A-2024 during a graduation ceremony at Great Hills Baptist Church in Austin. Texas Governor Greg Abbott delivered the keynote address.
A-2024 is the department’s 175th recruit class. 130 Trooper Trainees were originally selected to begin the DPS Academy on January 29, and of those 130 only 101 successfully completed the entire 30-week school to graduate.
“These 101 graduates represent the best and brightest there is,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw. “We are proud to welcome a new generation of leaders into the ranks of DPS, and we look forward to all they will bring to this department and this great state.”
During the 30-week in-resident Academy, Trooper Trainees receive more than 12-hundred hours of instruction. This exceeds the mandatory licensing requirement of 720 hours established by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE). The comprehensive training comes from experts on various topics, including criminal and traffic law enforcement, crash investigation, crisis intervention, use of force, criminal investigations, communications, cultural diversity, fitness and wellness and emergency medical assistance.
Trooper Trainees also receive components of the Tactical Emergency Casualty Care training to include trauma assessment, bleeding control and treatment of shock. The training prepares them to work as a Highway Patrol Trooper anywhere in the state, including in remote areas and extreme terrains.
Trooper Trainees conclude their rigorous training with what’s called the Joint Field Training Exercise (JFTX) – a culmination of scenarios and training events that simulate a potential day in the life of a Texas State Trooper. Utilizing the skills and knowledge obtained throughout the academy, Trooper Trainees participate in approximately 25 scenarios ranging from vehicle pursuits to compliant driver traffic stops. It finishes with a Legacy Run from DPS HQ to the State Capitol Peace Officer Memorial.
Other class highlights include:
- 86 males, 15 females
- Ages ranging from 21 to 54
- 36 military veterans
The newly commissioned Troopers will report to their individual duty stations across Texas on Sep. 15.
You can see additional photos from today’s ceremony here and watch a replay of the ceremony on the DPS Youtube page.
Harris Co. Fugitive Added to Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Criminal Immigrants List
August 26, 2024 – AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has added Jose Miguel Zelaya-Ponce to the Texas 10 Most Wanted Criminal Illegal Immigrants List. Texas Crime Stoppers is now offering a cash reward of up to $3,000 for information leading to Zelaya-Ponce’s arrest. All tips are guaranteed to be anonymous.
Jose Miguel Zelaya-Ponce, 20, a criminal illegal immigrant from Honduras, has been wanted out of Harris County since July 2024 for aggravated sexual assault of a child under 14. In April 2021, Zelaya-Ponce was arrested by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and charged with alien removal. He was subsequently given an order of recognizance and released. In June 2024, Zelaya-Ponce was issued a final order of removal.
Zelaya-Ponce is 6 feet tall and weighs about 170 pounds. He has ties to Harris County, including the city of Houston. More information about Zelaya-Ponce or updates in the event of his arrest can be found here.
The addition of Zelaya-Ponce to Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Criminal Illegal Immigrants List follows the capture of another fugitive from the list late last month.
Funded by the Governor’s Public Safety Office, Texas Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards to any person who provides information that leads to the arrest of one of Texas’ 10 Most Wanted Fugitives, Sex Offenders or Criminal Illegal Immigrants. So far in 2024, DPS and other agencies have arrested 29 Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives, Sex Offenders and Criminal Illegal Immigrants, including 10 sex offenders, 10 gang members and 3 criminal illegal immigrants.
To be eligible for cash rewards, tipsters MUST provide information to authorities using one of the following three methods:
- Call the Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-252-TIPS (8477).
- Submit a web tip through the DPS website by selecting the fugitive you have information about then clicking on the link under their picture.
- Submit a Facebook tip by clicking the “SUBMIT A TIP” link (under the “About” section).
All tips are anonymous — regardless of how they are submitted — and tipsters will be provided a tip number instead of using a name.
DPS investigators work with local law enforcement agencies to select fugitives for the Texas 10 Most Wanted Fugitives, Sex Offenders and Criminal Illegal Immigrants Lists. You can find the current lists — with photos — on the DPS website.
Do not attempt to apprehend these fugitives; they are considered armed and dangerous.
COMMISSIONER MILLER PROUDLY ANNOUNCES THE 2024 RELEASE OF GO TEXAN MAGAZINE
AUSTIN—Today, Commissioner Sid Miller proudly announced the release of the 2024 edition of GO TEXAN magazine, produced in collaboration with Farm Flavor Media. This annual publication truly celebrates Texas agriculture from A to Z, featuring stunning photography and engaging stories highlighting the people, places, and products that make the Lone Star State a powerhouse in agriculture. From the hardworking farmers and ranchers to the unique products that define our state, the 2024 edition captures what makes Texas an agricultural leader.
“Working with Farm Flavor Media on the GO TEXAN magazine allows us to showcase the best of Texas agriculture in a way that resonates with everyone,” Commissioner Miller said. “As you flip through the pages of the latest edition, you’ll see the heart and soul of Texas—our farms, food, and forests. This wonderful partnership with Farm Flavor brings to life stories of agritourism, agribusiness, crops, and local food, giving readers a true taste of what makes Texas agriculture the backbone of America.”
Highlights from the 2024 GO TEXAN magazine include:
- “History, Heritage, Home” – Discover how Texas family farms thrive across generations, balancing tradition with innovation.
- “Texas Made, Texas Proud” – Celebrate 25 years of the Texas Department of Agriculture’s GO TEXAN program, which champions independent Texas businesses.
- “All’s Fair” – Explore the iconic State Fair of Texas and its role in promoting Texas agriculture to millions.
- “Farm to Tray” – Learn how the Texas Department of Agriculture’s Farm Fresh Initiative brings locally grown products into school cafeterias, supporting Texas farmers and promoting healthy eating.
“Farm Flavor Media is honored to partner with the Texas Department of Agriculture to tell the vibrant and varied stories of Texas agriculture. Our passion is educating consumers and stakeholders about the exceptional people who produce their food, fiber and fuel, and GO TEXAN magazine highlights the many compelling ways that agriculture connects us all,” Farm Flavor Media Senior Editor Hannah Hill said.
The year’s edition was produced in cooperation with Farm Flavor Media and with the support of various agricultural and rural advocacy organizations, businesses, and associations, including the Texas FFA Association, Agworkers Insurance, Texas Electric Cooperatives, and Tarleton State University. This enabled the magazine to be published without the use of public funds.
The 2024 GO TEXAN magazine is now available online here.
For more information on the GO TEXAN program and other Texas Department of Agriculture initiatives, visit Texasagriculture.gov.
Governor Abbott Announces Over 1 Million Ineligible Voters Removed From Voter Rolls
August 26, 2024 – Auistin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott today announced that since signing Senate Bill 1 into law in 2021, Texas has removed over one million people from the state’s voter rolls, including people who moved out-of-state, are deceased, and are noncitizens. That removal process has been, and will continue to be, ongoing.
“Election integrity is essential to our democracy,” said Governor Abbott. “I have signed the strongest election laws in the nation to protect the right to vote and to crackdown on illegal voting. These reforms have led to the removal of over one million ineligible people from our voter rolls in the last three years, including noncitizens, deceased voters, and people who moved to another state. The Secretary of State and county voter registrars have an ongoing legal requirement to review the voter rolls, remove ineligible voters, and refer any potential illegal voting to the Attorney General’s Office and local authorities for investigation and prosecution. Illegal voting in Texas will never be tolerated. We will continue to actively safeguard Texans’ sacred right to vote while also aggressively protecting our elections from illegal voting.”
Since Governor Abbott signed Senate Bill 1 into law in 2021, Texas has removed over 1 million people from the voter rolls, including:
| Over 6,500 | noncitizens |
| Over 6,000 | voters who have a felony conviction |
| Over 457,000 | deceased people |
| Over 463,000 | voters on the suspense list |
| Over 134,000 | voters who responded to an address confirmation notice that they had moved |
| Over 65,000 | voters who failed to respond to a notice of examination |
| Over 19,000 | voters who requested to cancel their registration |
| Total | Over 1.1 million |
Of the over 6,500 noncitizens removed from the voter rolls, approximately 1,930 have a voter history. The Secretary of State’s office is in the process of sending all 1,930 records to the Attorney General’s Office for investigation and potential legal action. To better crackdown on illegal voting, Governor Abbott signed House Bill 1243 into law last year, increasing the penalty for illegal voting, including voting by noncitizens, to a second-degree felony.
In 2021, Governor Abbott signed Senate Bill 1, Senate Bill 1113, and House Bill 574 into law. Senate Bill 1 elevated lying while registering to vote to a state jail felony, criminalized ballot harvesting, required the Secretary of State to conduct randomized audits of elections every two years, banned distribution of unsolicited mail-in ballot applications and ballots, and required ID for mail-in ballots. Senate Bill 1113 empowered the Secretary of State to withhold funds from counties that fail to remove noncitizens from their voter roll. House Bill 574 made it a second-degree felony to knowingly count invalid votes or refuse to count valid votes.
In 2017, the Governor signed Senate Bill 5, which increased the penalty for election workers who knowingly permit noncitizens and other ineligible persons to vote.
