Food Insecurity

Judge Phillip Hays with the 99th District Court has recused himself from the lawsuit filed by Texas Tech quarterback Brendon Sorsby against the NCAA, after the NCAA declared Sorsby ineligible to play while they investigate accusations of online sports betting that violates the NCAA’s anti-gambling rules. From April 2025 to April 2026, nearly half a million Texans lost SNAP eligibility, according to data from the Texas Department of Health and Human Services. Our Samantha Larned reports federal changes to SNAP in 2025 could put financial pressure on the states.

Advocates say the federal government's new work requirements and immigration crackdown has limited food stamp participation. The state says the recent decline is part of normal fluctuations in enrollment.

Some close watchers of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's budget aren't thrilled with the Trump administration's proposal — but they're hopeful some of the suggested cuts won't make it in the final spending plans passed by Congress.

Texas has a 91% Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, accuracy rate — which could mean the state will be responsible for more than $700 million in benefits costs. If Texas has to cover part of the benefits costs, it would be the first time since the program started in the 1960s.

Locals share food with their neighbors through Sliger's Market

The National Weather Service has announced that a Fire Weather Watch is in effect from noon until 9 p.m. today for the South Plains region. Our reporter Bishop Van Buren has more on how a warm and dry winter contributed to increased fire risk this spring. Starting today, Texas won't allow people to SNAP benefits to purchase “candy” and “sweetened drinks.” KERA’s Abigail Ruhman reports that retailers have spent months preparing for the restrictions.

Starting April 1, Texans will no longer be allowed to use food stamps to buy sweetened beverages and candy.

Federal data found that millions of people struggled to get enough food in 2024. The report will be the final publication of such data after the U.S. Department of Agriculture said it will scrap the annual hunger survey.

A federal judge has issued a blistering dissent after two other judges on the same panel blocked Texas’ congressional redistricting map from taking effect next year. Houston Public Media’s Andrew Schneider reports the case has major ramifications for whether Republicans retain control of the House. After increased demand during the federal government shutdown, food pantries are expecting that to continue through the holiday season. The Central Texas Food Bank says some of its sites have had up to a 300% increase in people utilizing its services.

Federal food assistance has started to flow again after the government reopened. But the charitable food system is planning for continued need through the end of the year.