The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals re-sentenced Randall Mays, a 64-year-old man previously on death row, to life imprisonment without parole due to his intellectual disability. Mays was initially sentenced to death in 2008 for the murder of two sheriff's deputies. His legal team successfully argued that his intellectual disability, confirmed by state experts, exempts him from execution under the Eighth Amendment. The decision aligns with the 2002 U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Atkins v. Virginia, which prohibits executing individuals with intellectual disabilities. The Henderson County District Attorney's Office expressed disappointment, noting changes in diagnostic criteria since Mays' original sentencing. Mays' case highlights ongoing debates in Texas regarding the death penalty and mental health considerations.

Montgomery County officials have adopted a new policy empowering a citizen committee to review and potentially remove library materials based on public requests. The policy has sparked controversy, with County Judge Mark J. Keough clarifying that the committee's role is to make decisions on children's, young adult, and parenting materials. Critics, including Commissioner Charlie Riley, the Texas Freedom to Read Project, and the Children’s Defense Fund-Texas, argue that the policy undermines librarians' expertise and could lead to censorship. A petition opposing the policy has garnered over 1,300 signatures. The next commissioner’s court meeting is scheduled for April 9.

Ted Cruz endorsed Donald Trump for the Republican presidential nomination on Fox News, following Trump's victory in the Iowa caucuses. Cruz had previously resisted endorsing Trump, wanting to wait for the Iowa results. Trump won the caucuses with 51% of the votes, significantly ahead of Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley. Cruz emphasized the need for Republicans to unite against President Joe Biden, criticizing Biden's immigration policies. Despite facing criminal investigations, Trump leads in Texas polls and has received numerous GOP endorsements. Cruz and Trump have had a complex relationship since the 2016 primaries, but have since shown mutual support. U.S. Rep. Chip Roy, a former staffer for Cruz, has campaigned for DeSantis but will support Trump if he is the nominee.

Texas has introduced a new funding model for community colleges, focusing on student success rather than enrollment. House Bill 8 allocates $683 million to reward colleges for student achievements such as degree completion and successful transfers to four-year universities. The new model aims to address the state's labor force needs and support economically disadvantaged students. The funding changes come in response to declining enrollment and reduced state funding over the years. Colleges are adapting by enhancing student support services to improve outcomes. The initiative has received bipartisan support, contrasting with previous political divides in higher education.

Millions of Texans remain eligible for Affordable Care Act marketplace plans before the January 16 deadline, despite an estimated 5 million still being uninsured. Texas 2036's policy advisor, Charles Miller, highlights that many uninsured individuals may not realize they are eligible for subsidies or have outdated perceptions of plan affordability. Changes at both federal and state levels have made premiums more affordable, with a notable increase in gold-level plan purchases. Only 11% of uninsured individuals are without coverage by choice, with unemployment and lack of employer-provided insurance being significant factors.

Seattle Children's Hospital has initiated legal action against the Texas Attorney General concerning the handling of trans patient records. The lawsuit highlights ongoing tensions and legal challenges surrounding healthcare rights for transgender individuals.

Seattle Children’s Hospital has filed a lawsuit against the Texas Office of the Attorney General to prevent the release of patient records related to transition-related care for Texas residents. The lawsuit challenges a subpoena issued by Attorney General Ken Paxton, arguing it violates federal and state privacy laws and Washington's new Shield Law. The subpoena is part of broader efforts by Texas Republicans to restrict transgender rights, including healthcare and participation in sports. The hospital maintains it does not provide gender-affirming care to Texas residents and seeks to protect patient privacy.

Seattle Children’s Hospital has filed a lawsuit against the Texas Office of the Attorney General to prevent the release of patient information following a subpoena demanding records of Texas residents receiving transition-related care. The hospital argues that complying would violate privacy laws and that the Texas AG lacks jurisdiction. This legal action is part of broader efforts by Texas Republicans to restrict transgender youth's access to gender-affirming care. The hospital maintains it does not provide such care to Texas residents, either in-state or via telemedicine.

Seattle Children’s Hospital has filed a lawsuit against the Texas Office of the Attorney General to prevent the release of patient information following a subpoena demanding records of Texas residents receiving transition-related care. The hospital argues that complying would violate privacy laws and that the Texas AG lacks jurisdiction. The subpoena is part of broader efforts by Texas officials to restrict transgender youth's access to gender-affirming care. The hospital maintains it does not provide such care to Texas residents, either in-state or via telemedicine.

Seattle Children’s Hospital has filed a lawsuit against the Texas Office of the Attorney General to prevent the release of patient information following a subpoena demanding records of Texas residents receiving transition-related care. The hospital argues that complying would violate privacy laws and that the Texas AG lacks jurisdiction. This legal action is part of broader efforts by Texas Republicans to restrict transgender youth's access to gender-affirming care. The hospital maintains it does not provide such care to Texas residents, either in-state or remotely.