The CDC’s immunization advisory committee has ended its recommendation of the combined MMRV vaccine for children under four, a change local health officials say will affect vaccine access after a West Texas measles outbreak that caused two child deaths. Meanwhile, TxDOT is hosting car seat checkup events in Lubbock tomorrow and Saturday to help parents ensure proper fit.

A group of Lubbock-area nonprofits came together earlier this week to discuss how new state laws will impact families and children. Our reporter Samantha Larned, has more from statewide advocacy agency TexProtects on the goals of the new policies. Several other new bills signed by Governor Greg Abbott will go into effect on Dec. 4 and the elimination of the STARR test is expected to be implemented in the 2027-28 school year.

The South Plains Fair returns this week for its 108th year. Our reporter Bishop Van Buren has more on Preview Night, tonight from 6 to 11 p.m. with $1 rides, free admission, and free parking. The City of Lubbock is looking for public input to improve its website. The survey will be opened until October 1. You can provide feedback here.

Most of the COVID cases in the U.S. this August were the new Stratus variant. Our reporter Sean Ryan has more on the status of COVID-19 cases in Texas. Yesterday, the City of Lubbock cut the ribbon on a new Book Vending Machine at the Patterson Branch Library. Kids who participate in library programs will have the chance to win a token for a free book from the machine.

The Texas Legislature has formed new House and Senate committees focused on freedom of speech on Texas college campuses. The Texas Newsroom's Blaise Gainey says the move was prompted by last week's murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Here in Lubbock, a Texas Tech student was arrested at a Charlie Kirk memorial on campus Friday. Our Brad Burt reports she was charged with simple assault.

With autumn on the way, our reporter Mia Shephard has more on how to get involved with one of Lubbock’s favorite fall festivities. The annual Pumpkin Trail will be October 16th and the city is calling for sponsors and volunteers. For more information, contact Ruth Perkins by calling 806-775-2670 or at ruthperkins@mylubbock.us. Starting today, livestock producers affected by wildfires or floods can apply for disaster relief through the USDA's Emergency Livestock Relief Program. You can find more information at fsa.usda.gov/elrp.

This Saturday is the 55th Annual Fall Festival from the Lubbock Municipal Garden and Arts Center at 4215 University Ave from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Our reporter Samantha Larned has more on what folks can expect from the event. Governor Greg Abbott issued an executive order this week restricting the sale of THC products to those under the age of 21. Hemp relators say that in practice, it will not change much for the industry.

Governor Greg Abbott was joined by Lubbock's senator Charles Perry on Tuesday for the signing of two bills directed at helping rural healthcare systems. Our Brad Burt has more on the resources the bills provide for rural counties and hospitals. Meanwhile, the City of Lubbock is encouraging residents to apply for boards and committees. Our Sean Ryan reports on the open positions and how to apply. Click here for more information.

Yesterday, Lubbock City Council gave final approval to the new city budget and tax rate for homeowners. The new tax rate will be an average $15.33 increase for a $224,000 property. Today is World Suicide Prevention Day, and our reporter Bishop Van Buren spoke with a local expert about mental health awareness and ways to help those who might be struggling. Texas Tech University students can speak with counselors and find resources at a Mental Health Pop-Up tomorrow at Red Raider Plaza from 1-3 p.m. The National Suicide Prevention hotline is 988, and the crisis text line is 741-741.

After recent reports of sexual assaults involving rideshare drivers near campus, Texas Tech University is warning students to be cautious. Our new student reporter Mia Shephard has reminders for those using the services. Students can use Raider Ride from 6 p.m. to 2:45 a.m. on the TechRide app and report crimes and suspicious activity to Texas Tech Police at 806-742-3931. As of September 1, hundreds of new Texas laws are now in effect. Houston Public Media’s Matt Harab reports this includes legislation to make it illegal to sell lab-procured meat.