COUNTY LIFE
League of Women Voters challenges early cut-off of census count
Austin – The League of Women Voters of the United States and the League of Women Voters of Texas, California, and Florida, filed an amicus brief in New York Immigrant Coalition v. Trump, a case which challenges President Trump’s executive order to block undocumented individuals from being counted in the U.S. Census. The Leagues join in support of the plaintiffs, the New York Immigrant Coalition, Make the Road New York, American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, ADC Research Institute, and Fiel Houston, Inc.
“It is vital that every person is counted in the Census—that’s why it’s mandated in our Constitution,” said Celina Stewart, Senior Director of Advocacy and Litigation at the League of Women Voters of the United States. “Census data forms the basis for everything from federal funding for infrastructure to where businesses decide to build factories to how our Congressional and state legislative districts are drawn. Attempts to disrupt an accurate count threaten our very democracy and American livelihood.”
The states of Texas, Florida, and California are home to large immigrant populations who the Administration’s order may intimidate out of completing the Census, resulting in an under count in these states. The League argues in the brief that if permitted to go into effect, the Memorandum would unfairly and artificially reduce certain states’ representation in Congress, while improperly increasing the representation of other states. Accordingly, the impact of the Memorandum will be felt by not only undocumented immigrants, but all citizens in every state. And since one of the League’s primary goals is to promote government that is representative, accountable, responsive, and that assures opportunities for effective and inclusive voter participation in government decision-making, the League felt compelled to add their voices and perspective to the suit.
“Our communities depend on accurate Census data to ensure adequate funding for the institutions and programs that affect Texans’ everyday lives,” said Grace Chimene, president of the League of Women Voters of Texas. “The administration’s order strikes at the heart of our democracy—harming not just our immigrant communities, but every Texas resident who drives on a road, sends their kids to school, or seeks medical care.”
“Conducting a complete and accurate census is a critical component of the American democratic process. This unconstitutional directive would dramatically shift political representation nationwide and significantly impact distribution of federal funding to states, said Jennifer Altman, partner at Pillsbury Winthrop Pittman LLP, the law firm representing the League. “Though the memorandum may intend to target undocumented immigrant populations it would ultimately bring negative consequences for every lawful United States citizen, jeopardizing public health, public education and public safety, most acutely within communities of color.”
Take time to remember all those who gave all for our freedoms in America. The Bowie News staff wishes you a safe and happy holiday day weekend this Memorial Day. The News office will be closed on Monday for the holiday.
AUSTIN – With Memorial Day weekend marking the unofficial start to summer boating season, Texas Game Wardens are preparing for one of the busiest boating weekends of the year and reminding Texans and visitors alike to put safety first before heading out on the water.
In 2025, Texas recorded 178 reportable boating incidents that resulted in 50 fatalities and 77 serious injuries. Eighty-four percent of those who died in boating incidents were not wearing a life jacket. Texas Game Wardens also made 223 Boating While Intoxicated (BWI) arrests last year.
“Memorial Day weekend is when many families get back on the water for the first time this year,” said Col. Ron VanderRoest, director of Law Enforcement for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. “Before you leave the dock, take a few minutes to make sure your life jackets are on board, your boat is properly equipped and you have designated a sober operator.”
Texas Game Wardens encourage boaters to keep the following in mind before launching:
- Wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Children younger than 13 are required to wear one while underway.
- Never operate a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- The operator must wear the lanyard or have the engine cut-off switch fob on their person when operating a boat equipped with one.
- Operate at a safe speed and maintain a proper lookout.
- Take a boater education course. It is required for anyone born on or after Sept. 1, 1993.
- Check the weather before heading out and be prepared for changing conditions.
- Leave a float plan with someone you trust.
- Don’t overload your boat.
“Boating should be fun,” said VanderRoest. “A little planning and some common sense help keep it that way.”
Renting a Boat or Personal Watercraft
If you plan to rent a boat or personal watercraft, choose a licensed vessel livery (a business establishment engaged in renting or hiring out vessels for profit).
By law, vessel liveries must provide all required safety equipment, explain how to operate the vessel, review applicable boating laws and have the operator sign a form acknowledging they received this information. They are also required to carry liability insurance.
Before leaving the dock, renters should make sure the vessel has enough life jackets for everyone on board and that they understand basic operating rules, including those specific to personal watercraft.
Personal Watercraft Safety
Personal watercraft, including jet skis, are subject to special laws in Texas. Operators and passengers must always wear a life jacket, the operator must use the engine cut-off switch, and these vessels may not be operated between sunset and sunrise. Operators must also stay at least 50 feet from other vessels, people and the shore unless traveling at headway speed.
“Whether you’re launching your own boat or renting one for the day, take the time to understand the rules and make safety part of your plan,” said VanderRoest. “If you take safety seriously from the start, you’re far less likely to need help later.”
For more information about boating laws, required equipment and boater education courses, visit the TPWD Boater Education Program at tpwd.texas.gov/boatereducation.
Starting at noon on May 25 at The V (VFW) in Nocona there will be a program for the Memorial Day featuring speakers, cannons and a rifle team.
There will be a Memorial Day Celebration Dinner at 5 p.m. on May 25 at the Nocona Senior Citizens Center (Carpenter Shop).
Call for reservations at 940-825-3148. The meal will include barbecue ribs, french fries, beans, cole slaw, dessert and ice team. Adults are $10 and children $5.
Proceeds benefit the senior center and the Meals on Wheels program at Nocona.
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