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Around Texas
1. City of Austin suspends APD’s partnership with DPS
The City of Austin, without citing specific reasons, on Wednesday announced it has suspended the partnership between the Austin Police Department and the Texas Department of Public Safety.
While the partnership has been credited for a reduction in violent and gun crimes, as well as traffic fatalities, it has created controversy.
2. A year in as Big 12 commissioner, Yormark says ‘open for business’ was about more than expansion
Brett Yormark was definitely trying to send a message during his introduction as the Big 12 commissioner last year when he said the league was “open for business.”
A year into the job, Yormark said that statement was more than just about ongoing realignment and the potential of additional expansion during a transformative time throughout college football.
3. Gov. Abbott wants to end property taxes, but is that realistic?
After months of delay, a plan to cut your property taxes is on the fast-track. On Wednesday, the Texas Senate passed a key portion of an $18 billion package that would help both homeowners and businesses.
While Democrats joined Republicans in passing the bills, they raised concerns about a lack of new money for schools. One even criticized House leadership for removing a Senate-backed amendment to give teachers a bonus. Republicans say that will be addressed in the next special session.
The full property tax relief package is expected to be voted on and sent to Gov. Greg Abbott on Thursday.
Around the Nation
1. A Biden plan cuts student loan payments for millions to $0. Will it be the next legal battle?
2. 'Patriots, professionals and dedicated public servants': Wray defends FBI against Republican attacks
3. A heat wave has baked parts of the Southwest for weeks. Forecasters warn it's not cooling soon
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Deep in the Heart of Texas
With Wembanyama, other top picks out, NBA Summer League spotlight is for the taking
Rookie phenom Victor Wembanyama and many of the highest 2023 draft picks are out for the rest of the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, but several other players are worth watching.
Utah Jazz guard Keyonte George, this year's No. 16 overall pick from Baylor, is second in the league with 29.5 points and third with 8.5 assists per game.