Missouri Supreme Court hears arguments on legality of new congressional map

KMIZ on March 10, 2026

Marie Moyer

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)

EDITOR’S NOTE: AI was used for background research of this article.

Missouri’s rules on state census records were the focus of Tuesday’s arguments in the state Supreme Court as the months-long battle of Missouri’s true congressional map continues.

The lawsuit, filed by Suzanne Luther and several other Missourians, challenges House Bill 1, passed during a summer 2025 special session that repealed the 2022 congressional map and established new districts. The fight centers on whether the Missouri Constitution allows the legislature to redraw maps mid-decade and if it protects the public’s right to have the final say through the referendum process.

The exact law under Article III, Section 45 of the Missouri Constitution regarding redistricting is, “When the number of representatives to which the state is entitled in the House of the Congress of the United States under the census of 1950 and each census thereafter is certified to the governor, the general assembly shall by law divide the state into districts.”

The state’s last census occurred on April 1, 2020, and is recorded every 10 years.

During arguments, those opposed to the new map pointed to the law being done “each census thereafter,” interpreting the rule as right after census results are certified to the governor.

“This case was intentionally narrow and designed to address only the question of whether the General Assembly has the authority to redistrict at all,” Charles Hatfield, representing Luther, said.

The state and state Republican officials argued that the law was put in place as a mandate for the general assembly in 1943 after the General Assembly had failed to redistrict in prior decades.

Since there isn’t explicit wording against redistricting, the State argued there is technically no limit on the General Assembly redistricting outside of the 10-year rule. They added that the constitution is not a grant but a restriction on the legislature.

“The General Assembly has plenty of authority to redistrict, except as expressly restrained or limited by the Constitution,” John Gore, representing state Republican officials, said.

Cole County Judge Christopher Limbaugh previously ruled in favor of the state. Limbaugh determined that the state constitution does not expressly prohibit mid-decade redistricting.

Those opposed to the new map added that while the constitution doesn’t explicitly say not to redistrict, the questions of interpretation are still valid.

“You’re not going to find a lot of cases that talk about language that says ‘shall not’ or ‘shall have no power to’ because they never come here,” Hatfield said. “If the Constitution says ‘the legislature shall not’ or ‘shall have no power to’ that case is easy, plaintiffs don’t bring that case.”

The Republican supermajority in the General Assembly created the new map, which Gov. Mike Parson dubbed “Missouri First,” as the White House pushed for GOP-dominated states to help the party extend its U.S. House majority.

“I thought our side made a great case as why the Missouri first map, is lawful, it was obviously called in the special session by Governor Kehoe, passed lawfully by the Missouri state legislature,” Secretary of State Denny Hoskins said.

Hoskins also called out democrats both in the state and Washington DC for taking action through the courts.

“Whether it’s the D.C. Democrats that have filed articles of impeachment against President Trump or the Jeff City Democrats that have filed articles of impeachment against me is trying to use lawfare to get their way, and I’ll tell you one thing, I won’t be intimidated,” Hoskins said.

The map splits up Kansas City’s Fifth District, a Democratic stronghold, which could result in a flipped congressional seat come next election.

A rally, organized by a coalition including the People Not Politicians campaign, met outside the Missouri Supreme Court following the hearing in support of the challengers and the referendum process.

 “The Constitution says you should redistrict when the census is complete, and that’s not what happened here, then the referendum does become moot,” Director of People Not Politicians Richard Von Glahn said.

While the court case proceeds, the coalition People Not Politicians is pursuing a referendum to put the 2025 map before voters on the November ballot.

Hoskins adds that local election authorities have until July 28th to verify the referendum signatures.

Click here to follow the original article.

Owner of Pope Leo’s childhood church, school, pushing to preserve buildings

CNN Newsource on March 10, 2026

By Noel Brennan

Click here for updates on this story

    CHICAGO (WBBM) — There’s a push to save Pope Leo XIV’s childhood church and school after it made Preservation Chicago’s Most Endangered list last week.

The annual Chicago 7 Most Endangered list sounds the alarm on buildings and structures that are imminently threatened.

Now, St. Mary of the Assumption is at risk of being demolished.

“It’s still surreal to me,” said Joe Hall.

When Hall bought the abandoned church, he didn’t expect the spotlight.

“Nature-made sunroof on top of the church,” he said.

St. Mary of the Assumption in Riverdale hasn’t hosted a mass since 2011.

“The one thing that remained constant and still intact are the beautiful stained-glass windows,” Hall said.

The forgotten church and old school building are suddenly the focus of attention for good reason. It’s where Pope Leo XIV went to school and to church.

“To know that an actual pope walked through these hallways and in these classrooms is amazing,” he said.

Hall is committed to preserving the place.

“This is my opportunity to sort of give back to what was poured into me a long time ago,” Hall said.

He’s counting on help from a second spotlight.

“Recently, it’s been announced that we are part of the Chicago 7 now,” he said.

The church and its campus are on the Preservation Chicago list of most endangered buildings.

“We spotlight them if you will, so that developers and other stakeholders can come together and realize how important these resources are and invest in them,” said Ward Miller, executive director of Preservation Chicago.

A spotlight might be all this church needs.

“It really does open this up as an idea for a pilgrimage site,” Miller said.

“The idea is to turn the church into what’s called an oratory, a place where people can come, you know, and have intimate events, but the main thing is it will be a place where the community can come in and actually, you know, pray,” Hall said.

And someday, maybe this place could welcome back a pope.

“And that’s the goal, is to get this place up and running to the point where he can come home,” Hall said.

Empty and endangered for now, but full of possibility.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Minneapolis restaurant sends urgent plea to customers to come back to downtown Minneapolis

CNN Newsource on March 10, 2026

By Jason Rantala

Click here for updates on this story

    MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) — In a popular night spot like Minneapolis’ North Loop, it may come as a surprise to learn there are struggling restaurants there, but the owners of Dario said that is their new reality.

For two years, Dario has been serving up homemade pasta and cocktails.

“We’re not going to last much longer, nor are any of the other places you like to frequent, if we don’t get out here and try to experience these places,” said Stephen Rowe, Dario’s co-owner and beverage director.

Rowe and Executive Chef Joe Rolle recently sent a message to those on the restaurant’s e-mail list, writing that the recent U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement surge, combined with a challenging winter season, has caused a nosedive in reservations. They’re asking for customers to come back downtown.

“Like everybody else who owns a business around here and in the city, it’s just kind of like a gut punch,” said Rowe.

Customers, in particular from the suburbs, haven’t been coming in as much, Rolle said.

“They see a lot of things online, they see things on TV,” said Rowe.

“No one thought that North Loop was really affected, but we were,” said Mary Binkley, president of the North Loop Neighborhood Association.

Binkley said the past few months have been tough for North Loop restaurants.

“January and February were certainly heavy and that’s because people were spending their restaurant dollars elsewhere, in immigrant-owned restaurants, restaurants in neighborhoods where there was more ICE activity,” said Binkley.

Recently, foot traffic has been steadily improving in the neighborhood, Binkley said. With St. Patrick’s Day and Minnesota Twins games right around the corner, she said she is confident people will return.

“This is a place in a two-block radius where a lot of everyone’s favorite restaurants are,” said Binkley.

Dario’s owners said they have been forced to cut back on hours and shifts for employees. Meanwhile, they’ve launched lunch service on Thursdays and catering with the hopes of boosting business and saving the jobs of their 80 employees.

“A restaurant can take, you know, one or two bad weeks, but we’ve all had eight bad weeks in a row, so we’ve got a lot of digging out to do,” said Rolle.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Arkansas couple charged after police say children lived in home with feces, urine

CNN Newsource on March 10, 2026

By Abner Sosa

Click here for updates on this story

    BENTONVILLE, Arkansas (KHBS, KHOG) — A Bentonville couple faces felony charges after police say children were living in unsanitary conditions inside their home, according to court documents filed in Benton County.

Nicholas Snyder and Robyn Peterson are each charged with two counts of endangering the welfare of a minor and multiple counts of animal cruelty, according to affidavits filed in Benton County Circuit Court.

Officers with the Bentonville Police Department were dispatched March 2 to a home on Southwest Stonegrove Road for a welfare check after a report of possible poor living conditions and physical abuse, according to the court documents.

When officers entered the home, they reported smelling strong odors of ammonia and animal urine and observed dried urine, feces and trash on floors throughout the home, according to the affidavits.

Investigators also reported dirty diapers scattered throughout the home and said young children were running around barefoot, wearing only diapers. The documents state the children had bruises and scratches on their bodies and were in an environment where cleaning chemicals and animal waste were within reach.

Police also found several animals inside the home, including five dogs and three cats, according to the affidavits. Bentonville Animal Services responded and described the home as unfit for animals to live in, the documents state.

Authorities contacted the Arkansas Department of Human Services, and investigators placed a hold on the children, according to the affidavits. Arkansas State Police Crimes Against Children investigators are also involved in the case.

A judge later found probable cause for arrest warrants for Snyder and Peterson on the charges of endangering the welfare of a minor and cruelty to animals, according to the Benton County court filings.

Both defendants have been appointed public defenders, according to court records.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Mother’s home birth experience highlights challenges with rising trend

CNN Newsource on March 10, 2026

By Rachel Whelan

Click here for updates on this story

    CINCINNATI (WLWT) — A growing number of families are choosing home births, often seeking a more personal and comfortable environment during labor.

But when complications arise, and a hospital transfer becomes necessary, that transition can add unexpected stress.

For one Cincinnati-area mother, the experience raised larger questions about how home birth providers and hospitals coordinate care.

Maria Ibarra planned to welcome her daughter, Joy, with the team at the Cincinnati Birth Center. It was her second birth with the midwives there.

Ibarra said her decision to pursue a home birth was shaped in part by her own experiences growing up.

“As a young girl, I was in the hospital a lot with skin stuff,” she said. “I didn’t feel that sense of comfort when it comes to making a choice like that during a very vulnerable time.”

Midwife Meghan Nowland said many families are making similar choices.

“We saw a huge 300% increase with COVID,” Nowland said. “And then that did go down a little bit, but it’s still continued to be a popular thing.”

The Cincinnati Birth Center said it only works with low-risk pregnancies and that every family has a plan in place to transfer to a hospital if complications arise.

That plan was put to the test in July when Ibarra went into labor.

During labor, midwives noticed something concerning: the baby’s heart rate was dropping. Nowland says they called a nearby hospital while preparing for a transfer.

“The nurse there said that they don’t take walk-ins,” Nowland said.

She said they were already on their way to another hospital nearby.

“That was the second hospital we called, and they had a fantastic experience there,” Nowland said.

About an hour later, baby Joy was born healthy.

An NBC News investigation found that while many home birth transfers are not emergencies, coordination between home birth providers and hospitals can sometimes present challenges.

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, about 10 to 25 percent of planned home births result in a hospital transfer.

Midwives say communication between providers is key to keeping both mothers and babies safe.

“The thing that makes it safest is when we can all communicate with each other and work professionally together,” Nowland said.

Medical experts say anyone considering a home birth should talk through the risks with their provider and make sure a clear emergency transfer plan is in place.

WLWT reached out to the local hospital Nowland said initially declined the transfer. A spokesperson told WLWT the hospital welcomes and accepts all patients without exception.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Ohio restaurant celebrates World War II veteran’s 100th birthday

CNN Newsource on March 10, 2026

By Brian Hamrick

Click here for updates on this story

    WEST CHESTER, Ohio (WLWT) — Mert Gassert, a World War II veteran, celebrated his 100th birthday at the Back Porch Restaurant, where he is treated like a celebrity and has been a cherished customer for decades.

“He is the man, the myth, the legend,” said a guest at the celebration.

Gassert’s birthday was marked by nearly 100 friends and family members who gathered to honor him.

He has a personalized plaque on his seat at the bar, a drink named after him called “The Mert,” and even merchandise bearing his name.

“I got a lot of friends for an old man,” Gassert joked.

Ron Holliday, Gassert’s nephew, noted his uncle’s charisma and the way he interacts with others.

“I believe he’s treated that way because of how he responds to everybody else,” Holliday said.

The celebration featured special decorations, and friends and family traveled from across the country to be part of the occasion. “He’s very special around here,” said Back Porch employee Barbie Stanton.

To mark his 100 years, Gassert handed over his car keys, giving up his spot in the driver’s seat but not his seat at the end of the bar at the Back Porch.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Houston Area Urban League Welcomes Kelly P. Hodges to Lead Fund Development and Communications

CNN Newsource on March 10, 2026

By Francis Page, Jr.

Click here for updates on this story

    March 10, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — In a city known for its entrepreneurial spirit, civic pride, and commitment to community advancement, the Houston Area Urban League (HAUL) has added a powerhouse leader to its executive team. The organization recently announced the appointment of Kelly P. Hodges as its new Director of Fund Development and Communications, a move that signals both strategic momentum and a renewed commitment to expanding opportunity across Greater Houston.

With more than two decades of experience in philanthropy, nonprofit leadership, and community engagement, Hodges arrives with a reputation for turning vision into impact. Her career reflects a dynamic blend of fundraising expertise, strategic communications leadership, and mission-driven advocacy—precisely the kind of leadership that aligns with the Urban League’s longstanding mission of advancing economic empowerment and educational opportunity.

A Proven Leader in Philanthropy and Community Engagement

As Director of Fund Development and Communications, Hodges will guide the organization’s fundraising strategy, oversee major gifts and corporate partnerships, and lead marketing and communications efforts that elevate the visibility and influence of HAUL’s programs.

Working closely with President and CEO Judson W. Robinson III, the executive leadership team, and the Board of Directors, she will help drive philanthropic investment and deepen relationships with donors, foundations, and corporate partners committed to building a more equitable Houston.

“Kelly’s depth of experience in fund development and strategic communications makes her an exceptional addition to our leadership team,” Robinson said. “Her ability to build meaningful relationships, secure transformational funding, and amplify organizational impact will play a critical role as we continue expanding opportunity and advancing economic mobility for individuals and families throughout Greater Houston.”

A Career Built on Impact

Hodges’ professional journey reads like a masterclass in mission-driven leadership. Before joining the Houston Area Urban League, she served as Interim Executive Director of the NNPA Fund, where she helped advance national fundraising initiatives supporting Black-owned media institutions across the country.

Her previous leadership roles also include Regional Director of Philanthropy for the Coast Guard Foundation, where she successfully raised more than $2.5 million in major gifts from Fortune 500 corporations and high-net-worth donors.

Throughout her career, Hodges has held senior development and communications roles with several nationally respected organizations, including:

YMCA of Greater Houston American Heart Association Sisters Network® Inc. UT MD Anderson Cancer Center In these roles, she led multimillion-dollar fundraising campaigns, health equity initiatives, strategic communications programs, and community partnerships designed to improve lives and strengthen communities.

A Personal Commitment to Community Leadership

For Hodges, leadership is not confined to the boardroom. Her service extends deeply into the civic fabric of Houston.

She currently serves as a member of the Spring Independent School District Board of Trustees, helping shape educational policy and opportunity for thousands of students. She is also a Life Member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, an organization long known for its commitment to service and scholarship.

Her faith and community roots are equally strong. Hodges is an active member of Holman Street Baptist Church, located in Houston’s historic Third Ward—one of the city’s most culturally significant communities.

“I am honored to join an organization with such a powerful legacy of advocacy and service,” Hodges said. “I look forward to strengthening partnerships, expanding our philanthropic footprint, and ensuring the Houston Area Urban League’s impact remains visible, measurable, and sustainable for generations to come.”

Recognized Excellence

Hodges’ leadership and contributions have earned recognition across Houston’s civic and media landscape. She has been named a Top Black Health, Medical & Wellness Professional by D-Mars Magazine, honored as one of Houston’s Top 25 Women by Rolling Out Magazine, and featured in the inaugural edition of Who’s Who in Black Houston.

Her work and influence have also been highlighted in prominent publications including Forward Times, Houston Defender, and Houston Style Magazine.

The Urban League’s Mission Continues

Founded in 1968, the Houston Area Urban League remains one of the region’s most influential community-based organizations dedicated to empowering African Americans and underserved communities.

As an affiliate of the National Urban League and a United Way agency, HAUL provides direct services and advocacy across Greater Houston through programs focused on:

Workforce development Education and youth services Financial empowerment Housing assistance Small business support Health equity initiatives Through strategic partnerships with corporations, foundations, government agencies, and faith-based organizations, the Houston Area Urban League continues to strengthen families, build sustainable careers, and expand economic mobility across the region.

With Kelly P. Hodges now helping lead the organization’s fundraising and communications strategy, the future looks brighter than ever for Houston families seeking opportunity, empowerment, and a path forward.

For more information or to support the Houston Area Urban League’s mission, visit haul.org .

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Francis Page Jr
fpagejr@stylemagazine.com
7139275444

Harris County Communities Meeting Invites Residents to Engage with Local Leadership at March Civic Forum

CNN Newsource on March 10, 2026

By Francis Page, Jr.

Click here for updates on this story

    March 10, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — In a city known for its vibrant neighborhoods and strong civic spirit, opportunities to connect directly with local leaders are invaluable. This month, residents across the region are invited to participate in one such opportunity as the Harris County Communities Meeting (HCCM) hosts its upcoming monthly gathering—an event designed to strengthen civic awareness, encourage community dialogue, and empower citizens to take part in the democratic process.

Scheduled for Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at 7:00 PM CT, the meeting will take place at Fallbrook Church, 12512 Walters Road, Houston, Texas 77014. The evening’s featured guest speaker will be Harris County Tax Assessor-Collector Annette Ramirez, who will offer valuable insight into the important services her office provides to residents throughout Harris County.

A Forum for Civic Engagement in Houston

Houston has long thrived on the strength of community collaboration, and the Harris County Communities Meeting continues that tradition by creating a welcoming space where residents can learn, ask questions, and connect with public officials.

As a non-profit and nonpartisan organization, HCCM is committed to helping residents better understand how local government works and how everyday citizens can participate more effectively in civic life. The monthly meetings serve as a platform where elected leaders, community advocates, and everyday Houstonians gather to share information and exchange ideas that help shape the future of Harris County.

For many attendees, the gatherings are more than just meetings—they are opportunities to gain clarity on public services, build relationships with community leaders, and strengthen civic knowledge.

Spotlight on Harris County Tax Assessor-Collector Annette Ramirez

At the March meeting, attendees will hear directly from Annette Ramirez, whose office plays a crucial role in the daily operations of county government. As Harris County’s Tax Assessor-Collector, Ramirez oversees responsibilities that impact millions of residents—from property tax administration to voter registration services.

Her presentation will provide an informative overview of how the office supports residents and ensures efficient public service delivery. Topics expected to be discussed include:

Understanding property tax processes and responsibilities Voter registration and election-related services Resources available to help residents navigate county programs Ways citizens can stay informed and engaged in local governance For homeowners, voters, and community advocates alike, the conversation promises to be both educational and empowering.

Strengthening Democracy One Conversation at a Time

In an era when civic participation is more important than ever, community forums like the Harris County Communities Meeting play an essential role in connecting residents with the institutions that serve them.

By fostering open dialogue and providing access to elected officials, HCCM helps demystify government operations and encourages residents to take an active role in shaping their communities. These conversations often lead to greater understanding, stronger neighborhoods, and more engaged citizens.

For Houston residents who want to better understand county services—or simply meet neighbors who share a passion for civic involvement—the meeting offers a welcoming environment to do just that.

Join the Conversation

Community leaders, neighborhood advocates, and residents from across Harris County are encouraged to attend and bring friends, family members, and neighbors interested in learning more about civic engagement.

Event Details Harris County Communities Meeting Tuesday, March 24, 2026 • 7:00 PM CT Fallbrook Church • 12512 Walters Road • Houston, Texas 77014

For additional information about the organization or upcoming meetings, visit: harriscountycm.org

In Houston, the heartbeat of democracy often begins at the community level. The Harris County Communities Meeting continues to prove that when residents gather, share ideas, and stay informed, they help build a stronger—and more connected—future for everyone.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Francis Page Jr
fpagejr@stylemagazine.com
7139275444

Oklahoma Children’s Hospital debuts targeted chemo for rare eye cancer, treats first child in state

CNN Newsource on March 10, 2026

By KOCO

Click here for updates on this story

    OKLAHOMA CITY (KOCO) — Oklahoma Children’s Hospital is pioneering a targeted chemotherapy treatment for a rare eye cancer in children, marking a significant advancement in pediatric cancer care.

Lincoln, a 20-month-old from Ramona, is the first child in the state to undergo this groundbreaking procedure for retinoblastoma.

“He is the most rambunctious and happy and run-around baby I have ever seen,” said his mother, Jennifer Stumpff.

Lincoln has conquered his first steps, his first words and now a major milestone for Oklahoma health care.

“Now, we are fighting cancer, which is not something I ever thought we would do, and it is the hardest thing as a parent to go through,” Jennifer Stumpff said.

For families dealing with the rare eye cancer, treatment used to mean leaving Oklahoma for specialized care, often facing the possibility of losing the affected eye.

“The old-school treatment for retinoblastoma was you just enucleate the eye. You take the eye out, because if it spreads, this is a life-threatening cancer. Kids used to die from this,” Dr. Michael Feldman, a pediatric and endovascular neurosurgeon at OU Health, said.

Now, neurosurgeons at Oklahoma Children’s are offering a new option. Instead of sending chemotherapy through the entire body, doctors can deliver it directly to the tumor using a catheter.

“Because we’re able to do doses directly to the eye, we can do higher concentrations that are really, really toxic to the cancer but really, really OK to the rest of the body,” Feldman said.

Lincoln has undergone the procedure four times, and doctors say that it is working.

“The biggest thing is to let other parents know there’s somewhere here close now,” his father, Ryland Stumpff, said.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Houston Modernizes Jury Duty: New Digital System Launches for City Municipal Courts

CNN Newsource on March 10, 2026

By Francis Page, Jr.

Click here for updates on this story

    March 10, 2026 (Houston Style Magazine) — Serving on a jury has long been one of the most important civic responsibilities in American democracy. Now, the City of Houston Municipal Courts Department is bringing that tradition into the modern era with the launch of a new jury management system beginning Monday, March 9, 2026—a technology-driven update designed to simplify and streamline the experience for the more than 70,000 Houstonians summoned for jury duty each year.

For residents across the Bayou City, the change represents a welcome modernization of a process that historically relied heavily on mailed paperwork and delayed payments. The upgraded system embraces digital tools, faster communication, and a more user-friendly process while preserving the integrity and fairness that make jury service a cornerstone of the justice system.

Back of New Jury Summons

A New Look for Jury Summonses

Under the new system, traditional jury summons letters will be replaced with postcard-style notifications. These redesigned summonses are easier to identify and contain essential information in a streamlined format.

Residents who receive a summons will notice the official City of Houston seal in the upper-left corner and a unique Juror ID number printed on the back of the postcard. This ID allows potential jurors to quickly access the city’s new digital juror portal.

The first group of jurors receiving the new postcard format will begin reporting during the week of Monday, March 9, 2026.

A Faster, More Convenient Online Juror Portal

One of the most significant improvements is the launch of a new online juror portal, designed to reduce paperwork and make participation more convenient.

After receiving their summons, potential jurors will be directed to log into the portal to:

Complete their juror questionnaire Submit requests for exemptions or disqualifications Confirm their service status Receive updates regarding jury reporting instructions The portal can be accessed by scanning the QR code printed on the summons postcard or by visiting: juror-txhouston.ejm.tylerapp.com

For those who may not have access to the internet, assistance remains available through Jury Administration, ensuring that the system remains accessible to all residents.

Real-Time Updates Through Text Notifications

In another step toward modernization, the new system allows jurors to opt in to text message notifications. Once enrolled, participants can receive timely updates about their jury status—often the same day or by the next business day.

Historically, most communication regarding jury duty occurred through the mail, which could slow down the process. The addition of digital notifications helps reduce uncertainty and allows residents to better plan their schedules.

Immediate Compensation for Jurors

Houston’s new jury system also modernizes how jurors receive their compensation.

Previously, the $6 daily juror payment was mailed via check after service was completed. Under the updated system, jurors will now receive their payment through a debit card distributed the same day they report for service, providing immediate access to their compensation.

Protecting Residents from Jury Scams

Alongside these improvements, the Municipal Courts Department is reminding residents to remain alert to potential jury service scams.

Officials emphasize that all legitimate jury service begins with a summons delivered by mail. The department does not contact residents by phone regarding jury service, and text messages are only sent to individuals who have voluntarily signed up through the juror portal.

For Houston residents, the message is clear: civic duty just became a little easier—and a lot more modern.

Residents can learn more or access the juror portal at: juror-txhouston.ejm.tylerapp.com

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

Francis Page Jr
fpagejr@stylemagazine.com
7139275444