NEWS
New license plates rules go in July 1

Texans will soon experience a more streamlined process for receiving metal license plates when they purchase a car from a dealer, thanks to a new state law. Under House Bill 718, passed by the 88th Legislature in 2023, starting July 1, 2025, motor vehicle dealers will begin issuing metal license plates directly to buyers of new and used vehicles.
- Buying from a Dealer: Consumers purchasing a vehicle from a Texas dealer will receive metal license plates instead of paper temporary tags, driving off the lot with their plates already in place. Until their registration sticker arrives from their county office, customers must keep their buyer’s plate receipt in the vehicle to be able to verify the purchase and pending registration to law enforcement.
- Trading In a Vehicle: When consumers sell or trade in a vehicle with general issue plates, dealers may transfer the plates to another vehicle sold within 10 days, if the plates match the appropriate vehicle type, per Senate Bill 1902, passed by the 89th Legislature this year. Consumers with specialty license plates will keep their plates.
- Buying/Selling a Vehicle in a Private Sale: The private party sales process remains unchanged:
- Sellers should remove their license plates and registration sticker from the vehicle when they deliver the vehicle to the buyer.
- The seller can request to transfer the plates to another vehicle they own—if appropriate for the vehicle type—by visiting their county tax assessor-collector’s office.
- Sellers should submit a Vehicle Transfer Notification to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles within 30 days of the sale of the vehicle.
- Buyers must submit a title and registration application at their county tax assessor-collector’s office and obtain new plates to register the vehicle in their name within 30 days of purchase.
To learn more about these changes and their impact on consumers, dealers, tax assessor-collectors, and law enforcement, visit TxDMV.gov/HB718.
NEWS
Congressional staff to visit Nocona

The staff of the Office of Congressman Ronny Jackson (TX-13) announced upcoming mobile office hours for July in regional towns including Nocona.
Constituents are encouraged to attend if they need assistance with a federal agency or to learn more about the office’s services.
Bring all documentation if you require assistance with a federal agency case. No appointment is necessary. Additional questions should be directed to Congressman Jackson’s Amarillo office at (806) 641-5600.
In Montague County the office staff will be set up from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on July 14 in Nocona City Hall, 102 Clay Street.
NEWS
Budget offers, election called for Nov. 4

The Bowie City Council conducted a relatively brief meeting Tuesday night where the budget proposal was presented and the election for November was called.
The agenda opened with a public hearing on the 2024 annual Drinking Water Quality Consumer Confidence Report. City Manager Bert Cunningham touched on the highlights of the report which is available to the public on the city’s website.
He reported there were no violations or issues and the city’s water system continues to operate within all parameters. Water loss was at 41,402,247 gallons, which often stems from leaks or breaks. No action is required by the council.
Read the full story in the Thursday Bowie News.
NEWS
Texas AgriLife organizes relief effort

During the July 4th weekend, Kerr County and much of the Texas Hill Country experienced catastrophic flash flooding that resulted in the tragic loss of life and extensive damage across our communities.
As they begin the long road to recovery, the outpouring of support from individuals near and far is deeply appreciated.
The Kerr County AgriLife Extension Service reports at this time, monetary donations are the most effective way to assist. Contributions can be made through the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country, a registered 501(c)(3) public charity.
Donations will be directed to vetted organizations actively engaged in rescue, relief, and recovery efforts, as well as providing critical flood assistance to the impacted communities of Hunt, Ingram, Kerrville, Center Point and Comfort.
Ways to donate
Online: communityfoundation.net
Phone: 830-896-8811
By mail: The Community Foundation, 241 Earl Garrett Street, Kerrville, TX 78028
Gift cards to Texas 4-H. Please mail gift cards (Walmart, HEB, Visa) by July 12 to: Texas 4-H
CC: SUPPORT, 2473 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843
All donations are tax-deductible.
Volunteer needs
Those interested in volunteering are encouraged to contact the Salvation Army Kroc Center at (830) 315-5762 for current opportunities to assist on the ground.
Stay informed
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension is sharing timely updates and information through our official social media channels:
X (Twitter): @txextension
Facebook: facebook.com/agrilifeextension
Instagram: @txextension
The nation’s support is instrumental in helping Kerr County and the broader Hill Country recover and rebuild. Citizens of this region extend their heartfelt thanks to everyone across the nation and world offering their compassion, resources, and time during this challenging time.
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