Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Highlights Harris County Public Library Programs for Friends of the Library Week 10/24/2024 10/24/2024 Harris County, TX, October 24, 2024 – Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo joined Harris County Public Library (HCPL) Executive Director Edward Melton, Harris County Friends of the Library (HCFOL) President Susan Greer, viral sensation John "Curbside Larry" Schaffer, community leaders, HCPL staff and more at the Barbara Bush Library on Wednesday to celebrate National Book Month and National Friends of the Library Week. Read More View More Images
Harris County Commissioners Pass FY2025 Budget 09/19/2024 09/19/2024 Harris County, TX, September 19, 2024, Today Harris County Commissioners approved the Fiscal Year 2025 budget proposed by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). They formally approved tax rates for the Harris County general fund, the Harris County Toll Road Authority and the Harris County Flood Control District. Read More View More Images
Harris County Passes New Family Financial Assistance Program 08/15/2024 08/15/2024 Harris County, TX, August 15, 2024, Today Harris County Commissioners Court approved a new family financial assistance program. Under the new program, the approximately 1,600 families who were selected for Uplift Harris back in March will receive $500 monthly payments on a prepaid debit card that can only be used at certain vendors like grocery stores or pharmacies. According to the plan, families can expect to receive the payments in about four months. Read More View More Images
Harris County Commissioners Pass Major Vote To Invest In Flood Control Maintenance, Pending Voter Approval 08/15/2024 08/15/2024 Harris County, TX, August 15, 2024 – Today Harris County Commissioners Court unanimously voted to adopt a new tax rate for the Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD), in order to fund deferred maintenance for existing flood control projects. Harris County residents will vote whether to approve the new initiative on the November ballot. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Commemorates Civil Rights Act Anniversary in Austin and Accompanies President Joe Biden to Houston on Air Force One 07/29/2024 07/29/2024 Harris County, TX, July 29, 2024 – Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo today attended the 60th Anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 at the LBJ Presidential Library where President Joe Biden was the keynote speaker. The historic event, hosted by the LBJ Foundation, honors the landmark legislation signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson on July 2, 1964, which outlawed discrimination and led to historic progress in advancing civil rights and social justice in the United States. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Proclaims Today "Vice President Kamala Harris Day" in Honor of Vice President Harris's Visit to Houston and Harris County 07/25/2024 07/25/2024 Harris County, TX, July 25, 2024, Harris County and Houston officials welcome back Vice President Kamala Harris in her second visit to Texas this month. Judge Hidalgo proclaimed today “Vice President Kamala Harris Day” in Harris County to honor Vice President Harris. Vice President Harris is in town to headline the American Federation of Teachers' 88th national convention, reflecting her ongoing commitment to championing American workers. Read More View More Images
Joint Statement from Harris County Judge's Office & Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management on IT Outage Impacts 07/19/2024 07/19/2024 Harris County, TX, July 19, 2024, This morning Harris County was impacted by a global technology outage affecting critical IT systems across the globe. Crowdstrike, a global provider of cybersecurity software, said the outage was caused by a system error on their end and was not the result of a cyberattack or security breach. They are actively working to fix the issue, and systems are beginning to come back online. Read More View More Images
FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers Now Open in Harris County for Residents Seeking Aid After Hurricane Beryl 07/18/2024 07/18/2024 Harris County, TX, July 18, 2024, The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has opened five Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) locations in Harris County for residents seeking federal aid after the recent disasters in Harris County, including Hurricane Beryl. Read More View More Images
Judge Lina Hidalgo Announces Harris County Will Receive Individual Assistance from FEMA for Hurricane Beryl Recovery 07/12/2024 07/12/2024 Harris County, TX, July 12, 2024, Judge Lina Hidalgo issued the following statement after FEMA announced that Harris County will receive Individual Assistance from the federal government to help people affected by Hurricane Beryl: Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Urges Residents to Stay Weather Aware and Have Hurricane Preparedness Kits and Plans Ready 07/06/2024 07/06/2024 Harris County, TX, July 6, 2024 – Please see statement below from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo.The Harris County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management is closely monitoring Beryl as it tracks across the Gulf of Mexico. Forecast confidence is increasing that Beryl will make landfall Southwest of Harris County, around the Matagorda Bay area. Given the forecast at this time, the concerns for our region are currently limited to rain, gusty winds, and some minor coastal flooding. Specifically, we are anticipating heavy rains early next week, but nothing beyond street flooding according to the current forecast. Read More View More Images
Judge Lina Hidalgo Statement on Inefficiencies in Harris County Competency Jail Restoration Process 06/26/2024 06/26/2024 Harris County, TX, June 26, 2024 – Judge Lina Hidalgo issued the following statement today after the Office of County Administration (OCA) identified issues and inefficiencies in the Harris County jail competency restoration process. At Commissioners Court yesterday, OCA identified a case where an individual stayed in the Harris County Jail awaiting trial for nearly 18 years due to these inefficiencies. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Celebrates Juneteenth with the Kinsey Family During Tour of the Kinsey African American Art & History Collection 06/19/2024 06/19/2024 Harris County, TX, June 19, 2024 – Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo toured the Kinsey African American Art & History Collection today at Holocaust Museum Houston (HMH). She was joined by co-founders and owners of the collection, Bernard and Shirley Kinsey, their son, General Manager and Chief Curator, Kahlil B. Kinsey, and a diverse group of over 100 Harris County community members. Read More View More Images
Judge Lina Hidalgo and County Attorney Christian Menefee's Statement on Texas Supreme Court's Ruling Blocking Uplift Harris Program 06/14/2024 06/14/2024 Harris County, TX, June 14, 2024, Today, the Texas Supreme Court issued an opinion further extending its initial pause of Harris County's Uplift Harris guaranteed income program. Uplift Harris is a pilot guaranteed income program in which around 1,900 low-income Harris County residents would receive $500 a month for eighteen months. The program was inspired by other such initiatives around the country and the state, including in the City of Austin and Cook County, Illinois. Paxton sued Harris County in April to block Uplift Harris payments from going out, claiming that the program violated the Texas Constitution's ban on the gift of public funds and equal protection clause. Read More View More Images
Harris County Public Library and Children's Museum Houston Receive Nation's Highest Honor 06/04/2024 06/04/2024 Harris County, TX, June 4, 2024, Judge Lina Hidalgo celebrates the Harris County Public Library and Children’s Museum Houston winning the nation’s highest museum and library honor, the 2024 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. This is the first time in the award’s 30-year history that a museum and library from the same community have won the prestigious award in the same year. Read More View More Images
Judge Lina Hidalgo Provides Update on Harris County Disaster Recovery Process 05/29/2024 05/29/2024 Harris County, TX, May 29, 2024, Today Judge Lina Hidalgo issued the following statement about Harris County’s recovery from the severe weather events this month:“We’re hitting the one month mark from the catastrophic flooding in our region. Since then, we’ve been hit hard twice more. It breaks my heart that these disasters have impacted so many people, but I’m really proud of the fact that various levels of government have worked to provide as much aid as necessary, and we’re seeing people make use of those resources more and more. I also want to thank the constituents who have spoken with me and my staff about how we can improve the aid process. We’ve worked directly with FEMA to make tweaks, for example trying to shorten the time it takes for people to receive aid and ensuring that we have the short-term hotel stay program,” said Judge Lina Hidalgo. Read More View More Images
Harris County Awarded Public Assistance Funding for Disaster Recovery 05/23/2024 05/23/2024 Harris County, TX, May 23, 2024 — Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo announced today that Harris County has been awarded Public Assistance funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) following the derecho that struck the area last week. This funding will provide crucial support for the county's ongoing recovery efforts. Read More View More Images
Judge Hidalgo: Harris County Should Be Eligible for Public Assistance from Federal Government To Fund Recovery 05/18/2024 05/18/2024 Harris County, TX, May 18, 2024, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo announced today that Harris County government should be eligible for FEMA’s Public Assistance Program, based on the cost of the damage from the severe winds this week. FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides grants to state and local governments, as well as certain types of private nonprofits, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. Public Assistance funding will reimburse Harris County and other affected governmental entities in our region for up to 75% of the cost of recovery measures like debris removal, as well as other emergency and protective measures. In order to be eligible for Public Assistance, Harris County has to meet a certain threshold for damages that is based on population, equivalent to about $22 million. Read More View More Images
State Request for Presidential Disaster Declaration Along with Judge Lina Hidalgo Will Bring Help to Harris County Communities Affected by San Jacinto River Flooding 05/16/2024 05/16/2024 Harris County, TX, May 16, 2024, Harris County, TX, May 16, 2024, Governor Greg Abbott’s letter to President Biden requesting a Presidential Disaster Declaration for Texas communities impacted by severe weather will bring aid to Harris County communities affected by the recent San Jacinto River flooding as soon as the first week of June. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Takes Funding Plea for Communities Recovering from Devastating Flood to D.C. 05/09/2024 05/09/2024 Harris County, TX, May 9, 2024, – Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo is spearheading efforts in Washington D.C. this week to secure funding for communities devastated by recent floods and future floods. Read More View More Images
Judge Hidalgo Helps Deliver Federal Funding to Harris County For Clean Energy Transition and Green Jobs 04/22/2024 04/22/2024 Harris County, TX, April 22, 2024 – This Earth Day, Harris County and the Texas Solar for All Coalition received a major federal grant of $250 million to fund the clean energy transition. Over the past year, Harris County led the Texas Solar for All Coalition, a group of six Texas county and city governments, as well as state energy nonprofits, in applying for this historic federal funding. Read More View More Images
Judge Lina Hidalgo Issues Statement In Response to District Court Ruling Protecting Assistance for Families in Poverty 04/18/2024 04/18/2024 Harris County, TX, April 18, 2024 – Today, Judge Ursula Hall of Harris County’s 165th District Court denied the Texas Attorney General’s attempt to block the disbursement of Uplift Harris funds. Although the program is technically allowed to go into effect as planned on April 24, we expect the state to appeal and continue attacking Harris County. Read More View More Images
Judge Hidalgo Reveals Troubling Audit Findings, Calls for Urgent Reforms in Harris County 04/12/2024 04/12/2024 Harris County, TX, April 12, 2024, Earlier today, Judge Hidalgo held an illuminating meeting with the Harris County Auditor, the departments involved (Engineering Department, Flood Control Department and Harris County Toll Road Authority), the Purchasing Department and the County Administrator's Office. The audits can be found on the Auditor’s website. The Harris County Commissioners Court does not oversee the Harris County Auditor. Rather, he reports to a board of district court judges. Read More View More Images
Judge Lina Hidalgo Issues Statement In Response to Attorney General Ken Paxton Seeking to Stop Harris County Program 04/09/2024 04/09/2024 Harris County, TX, April 9, 2024 – Today, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton filed a lawsuit against Harris County’s federally funded guaranteed income pilot program. The lawsuit falsely claims that Harris County’s Uplift Harris program is illegal under Texas law and in practice, if he succeeds in getting an injunction, the lawsuit will take away $500 a month from 1,928 low-income Harris County families who are already counting on those dollars to feed their household, pay the rent, and keep the lights on. In January, Harris County created the “Uplift Harris” guaranteed income pilot program, joining more than 80 cities and counties across the nation and other countries around the world that have seen success through similar programs. In Texas, San Antonio and Austin ran similar programs starting in 2020 and 2022, respectively. Read More View More Images
Commissioners Court Approves 100% Property Tax Exemption for Qualifying Childcare Centers 03/26/2024 03/26/2024 Harris County, TX, March 26, 2024, Today Commissioners Court approved Judge Lina Hidalgo’s item to create a 100% property tax exemption for qualifying childcare centers under Proposition 2. Read More View More Images
Judge Lina Hidalgo Responds to SB 4 Anti-Immigration Law 03/20/2024 03/20/2024 Harris County, TX, March 20, 2024, Judge Lina Hidalgo issued the following statement today about SB 4: Read More View More Images
Judge Lina Hidalgo Attending White House Women’s History Month Reception This Morning, Advocating for Women’s Health and Economic Prosperity Alongside the Biden-Harris Administration 03/18/2024 03/18/2024 Harris County, TX, March 18, 2024, Judge Lina Hidalgo is at the White House today to attend the Women’s History Month Reception attended by President Joe Biden, First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, as well as elected officials and advocates from across the country. Read More View More Images
Judge Lina Hidalgo Statement in Response to SB 4 Federal Court Ruling 02/29/2024 02/29/2024 Harris County, TX, February 29, 2024, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo issued the following statement in response to the federal court ruling today: Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Kicks Off Rodeo Season and A New Tradition in Houston and Harris County 02/22/2024 02/22/2024 Harris County, TX, February 22, 2024, Harris County, TX, February 22, 2024, Judge Hidalgo along with County officials welcomed the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo to NRG Stadium today by tossing the hat over to Rodeo officials during Harris County's First Ever Hat Toss Day. This new tradition signals the start of the iconic event here in Houston and Harris County and an unofficial kick-off to Rodeo season. Read More View More Images
Judge Lina Hidalgo Calls for Stricter Gun Safety Regulations in Wake of Lakewood Church Shooting 02/16/2024 02/16/2024 Harris County, TX, February 16, 2024, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo issued the following statement in response to the shooting at Lakewood Church on Sunday: Read More View More Images
Judge Lina Hidalgo Statement in Response to SB 4 Federal Court Hearing Today 02/15/2024 02/15/2024 Harris County, TX, February 15, 2024, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo issued the following statement in response to the federal court hearing today in Austin over whether SB 4 can go into effect next month: Read More View More Images
More Than 82,500 People Applied for Uplift Harris, Demonstrating Need for Harris County’s Guaranteed Income Pilot Program 02/13/2024 02/13/2024 Harris County, TX, February 13, 2024, More than 82,500 people applied for Uplift Harris, Harris County’s guaranteed income pilot program. 88 percent of applicants identified as Black or Hispanic. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Responds to News of Rape-Related Pregnancies in Texas After Abortion Ban 01/25/2024 01/25/2024 Harris County, TX,January 25, 2024 – Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo released the following statement today after the Journal of the American Medical Association reported that Texas saw more than 26,000 rape-related pregnancies during the 16 months after the state passed an abortion ban with no exceptions for rape or incest: Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Announces Department Closures On Tuesday, January 16, 2024 Due To Hard Freeze 01/15/2024 01/15/2024 Harris County, TX, January 15, 2024 – Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo has announced the closure of all Harris County departments on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, in response to the winter weather and a continued hard freeze in the region. Unless they are supporting essential operations, all county facilities and offices are closed to the public tomorrow. This means jury service for tomorrow has been canceled. Read More View More Images
Harris County Announces Emotional Support Hotline For Communities Affected by the Conflict in Gaza and Israel 12/19/2023 12/19/2023 December 19, 2023 - Harris County, Texas, Judge Lina Hidalgo announced today that in partnership with The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD, Harris County created an emotional support line for members of our community who have been impacted by the conflict in Gaza and Israel. Read More View More Images
Diana Ramirez Takes the Helm as Appointed Harris County Administrator 10/31/2023 10/31/2023 Harris County, Texas- October 31, 2023 , Harris County Commissioners Court votedtoday to name Diana Ramirez the permanent County Administrator. She has beenserving as Interim County Administrator since Administrator Dave Berry’sresignation. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins Place Wager on Astros vs. Rangers American League Championship Series 10/13/2023 10/13/2023 Harris County, TX - October 13, 2023, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins agreed to a friendly wager on the Houston Astros vs Texas Rangers American League Championship Series. Read More View More Images
County Judge Lina Hidalgo Returns to Office 10/02/2023 10/02/2023 Harris County, Texas -October 2, 2023, Judge Hidalgo returned to the office today after receiving mental healthtreatment for clinical depression. She will spend the day getting briefed bystaff and responding to constituent messages. Read More View More Images
County Judge Lina Hidalgo To Be Discharged from Residential Treatment 09/14/2023 09/14/2023 Harris County, Texas – September 14, 2023 – Judge Hidalgo today provided an update on her mental health treatment. Based on the advice of her medical care team, she will be discharged the morning of Saturday, September 16, 2023, to transition from residential care to outpatient care. The Judge will return to her usual schedule on Monday, October 2, 2023. Read More View More Images
Commissioners Court Unanimously Approves Order of a 2023 Bond Election To Finance Upgrades to the Harris Health System 08/17/2023 08/17/2023 Harris County, Texas- Thursday, August 17, 2023, Today Harris County CommissionersCourt approved an order for a bond election for the November 2023 General Electionto finance upgrades to the Harris Health System. Read More View More Images
Commissioners Court Approves Burn Ban for Unincorporated Harris County 08/08/2023 08/08/2023 Harris County, Texas - Tuesday, August 8, 2023, Due to excessive heat and drought conditions, Commissioners Court has approved a burn ban, effective immediately, at the recommendation of the Harris County Fire Marshal, for all unincorporated portions of the County. Read More View More Images
County Judge Lina Hidalgo Announces Temporary Leave from Office 08/07/2023 08/07/2023 Harris County, Texas - August 7, 2023, Judge Hidalgo announcedtoday that, based on the advice of her doctors, she will be on leave from theoffice for the next several weeks to seek inpatient care for clinicaldepression at an out of state facility. Her medical care team is hopeful thatshe will be able to resume her normal schedule by early September. Read More View More Images
Judge Lina Hidalgo to Meet with Biden Harris Administration in Washington D.C. on Wednesday 07/18/2023 07/18/2023 Harris County, TX - Tuesday, July 18, 2023, Judge Lina Hidalgo will travel to Washington D.C. Tuesday, joining a delegation of Texas leaders at the White House on Wednesday. At the meeting, Judge Hidalgo will focus on the successful implementation of projects funded through the American Rescue Plan Act. Read More View More Images
County Judge Lina Hidalgo Breaks Ground on First-of-its-Kind Center Housing Youth Aging out of Foster Care 06/16/2023 06/16/2023 Harris County, Texas- June 16, 2023, Judge Hidalgo today welcomed local, state, and federal leaders Friday to celebrate the groundbreaking for Harris County’s HAY Center for youth transitioning out of foster care. Once completed, the HAY Center will feature 50 apartments, and include wraparound services including counseling, life skills classes, and other resources. Read More View More Images
Harris County Administrator Returns to the Private Sector for a Role Focused on Renewable Energy 04/20/2023 04/20/2023 Harris County, Texas - April 20, 2023, Judge Lina Hidalgo today announced the decision by Harris County Administrator, David Berry, to leave his position and take on a new private sector role focused on renewable energy. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Welcomes Taylor Swift by Renaming NRG Stadium 04/19/2023 04/19/2023 Harris County, Texas - April 19, 2023, Judge Lina Hidalgo announced on social media that NRG Stadium would be re-named throughout the weekend ahead of Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour. Banners with NRG Stadium (Taylor’s Version) will be placed at NRG Stadium’s North and South entrances Read More View More Images
Judge Lina Hidalgo Announces $4.7 Million in American Rescue Plan Act Funding to Support Successful Reentry Among Incarcerated Women 04/12/2023 04/12/2023 Harris County, Texas - April 12, 2023, Judge Lina Hidalgo along with Representatives Sheila Jackson Lee and Sylvia Garcia, Commissioner Lesley Briones and other officials Tuesday announced $4.7 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds to bring supportive programming to women housed in the Women’s Center jail. Read More View More Images
Update from Judge Hidalgo and Harris County Office of Emergency Management Regarding INEOS Plant in Pasadena, Texas 03/22/2023 03/22/2023 Harris County, Texas - March 22, 2023, Judge Hidalgo provides the following updateregarding today’s explosion at the INEOS plant in Pasadena. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Issues Statement on Potential HISD Takeover 03/03/2023 03/03/2023 Harris County, TX - March 3, 2023.The Texas Education Agency’s rumored plan to take over HISD is outrageous at best and a thinly-veiled threat to democracy at worst. School boards are one of the purest expressions of American democracy. Read More View More Images
Judge Lina Hidalgo Urges Residents to Prepare for Upcoming Hard Freeze 12/20/2022 12/20/2022 Harris County, TX - December 20, 2022. Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo along with County emergency officials and Mayor Sylvester Turner provided an update on the upcoming hard freeze. Hidalgo urged residents to take a few extra precautions over the next few days to prepare for upcoming freezing temperatures. Read More View More Images
Judge Lina Hidalgo issued the following statement calling for support of the proposed Harris County budget 09/07/2022 09/07/2022 Harris County, Texas - September 7, 2022 - I’m proud to champion a budget that both decreases the tax rate and adds millions of dollars to public safety, including a substantial pay increase for frontline police officers. Read More View More Images
Harris County Authorizes Litigation Against the Texas Comptroller 08/31/2022 08/31/2022 Harris County, Texas - August 31, 2022, Harris County Commissioner’s Court today authorized the County Attorney to hire outside counsel and file a lawsuit to challenge the state’s efforts to gridlock Harris County funding, including over $96 million for public safety Read More View More Images
Harris County Secures $750 million of Flood Control Infrastructure and Mitigation Funding 08/31/2022 08/31/2022 Harris County, Texas - August 31, 2022, Judge Lina Hidalgo released the following statement about today’s $750 million of flood control infrastructure and mitigation funding: Read More View More Images
Harris County Allocates $14.3 Million to Tackle Behavioral and Mental Health 08/25/2022 08/25/2022 Harris County, TX - August 25, 2022, Judge Lina Hidalgo along with several local members of congress today introduced a $14.3 million initiative aimed at combating the growing mental health crisis and an additional $7.5 million to address nutritional and food insecurity. Through a multi-million dollar allocation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, the Behavioral and Mental Health Program will increase access to mental health services, with a focus on expanding counseling for youth and their families, before mental health issues become debilitating or a crisis for individuals. Read More View More Images
Harris County Expands Vaccine Eligibility as Monkeypox Cases Continue to Spread 08/16/2022 08/16/2022 Harris County, TX - August 16, 2022, Judge Lina Hidalgo today announced Houston/Harris County will expand eligibility criteria to include HIV+ individuals and those diagnosed with Chlamydia. Previously, vaccines were available to individuals in direct contact with someone who had contracted Monkeypox, attended an event where there was a high risk of exposure, were currently on PrEP medication, or diagnosed with gonorrhea or early syphilis within the past three months. Read More View More Images
Judge Hidalgo Announces Brighter Futures for Harris County Kids Initiative 08/03/2022 08/03/2022 Harris County, Texas - August 3, 2022 – Judge Lina Hidalgo shared evidence-based strategies as the cornerstone of an $84 million investment in Harris County children and families. The Brighter Futures for Harris County Kids was announced in a press conference Wednesday afternoon. Judge Hidalgo along with Commissioner Ellis, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia, Congressmember Al Green, and Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher announced the $84 million initiative at the Children’s Museum Houston. Read More View More Images
Harris County Public Health Continues Distribution of Limited Monkeypox Vaccines 07/28/2022 07/28/2022 Harris County, TX– Thursday, July 28, 2022, In a joint letter (attached) sent today, Judge Hidalgo and Mayor Sylvester Turner have requested additional Monkeypox vaccine doses from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Read More View More Images
Judge Lina Hidalgo and Mayor Sylvester Turner Provide Latest on Monkeypox Virus 07/25/2022 07/25/2022 Harris County, TX - Monday, July 25, 2022, Judge Lina Hidalgo, Mayor Sylvester Turner, Dr. Vandana Shrikanth, experts from Legacy Community Health, and public health officials today held an update on Monkeypox to share the latest information regarding cases in Harris County and Houston. In addition, Hidalgo and Turner presented a response and preparedness plan. Read More View More Images
Harris County Approves a $7.7 million plan to invest ARPA Funds Towards Maternal and Child Health Care Initiative 07/19/2022 07/19/2022 Harris County, Texas - July 19, 2020, Harris County Commissioners Court today unanimously approved a multimillion dollar initiative to serve the health care needs of women and children, a top priority for the office of Judge Lina Hidalgo. Read More View More Images
Harris County Names New Elections Administrator 07/05/2022 07/05/2022 Harris County, Texas - Tuesday, July 5, 2022, Judge Lina Hidalgo today announced Clifford Tatum will serve as Harris County's next Elections Administrator. Mr. Tatum has 16 years of elections experience and has led 9 elections in the past 4 years. Read More View More Images
Statement from the Office of Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo 06/27/2022 06/27/2022 Harris County, Texas - June 27. 2022, Judge Lina Hidalgo tested positive for COVID Sunday, June 26. Read More View More Images
New program funded by American Rescue Plan funds will allocate historic $48 million dollar investment for childcare and early childhood development 06/14/2022 06/14/2022 Harris County, Texas - June 14, 2022, In a 3 to 2 vote, commissioners court approved a new program investing $48 million American Rescue Plan (ARPA) funds for childcare and early childhood development in Harris County. It is the largest known investment of ARPA dollars by any county or city in the nation for early childhood education. Read More View More Images
Harris County Tax Support Initiative Pumps over $10 Million Into Local Economy 04/18/2022 04/18/2022 (Harris County, Texas) - April 18, 2022, County Judge Lina Hidalgo today released new data on Harris County’s efforts to increase adoption of the Biden-Harris Administration’s expanded child tax credit - a tax benefit designed to help families raising children. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lowers COVID Threat Level to Yellow 03/10/2022 03/10/2022 Harris County, Texas - March 10, 2022, Judge Lina Hidalgo today announced that she is lowering the county’s COVID-19 Threat Level Indicator from Level 2: Orange to Level 3: Yellow as positive cases and hospitalizations continue to decline following the Omicron wave of infections. Read More View More Images
Statement from County Judge Lina Hidalgo on HUD Discrimination Finding 03/08/2022 03/08/2022 Harris County, Texas - March 8, 2022 - We’re grateful to have leadership in Washington that recognizes the value of fairness and equity when it comes to fighting the clear and present danger we’re experiencing from climate change. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lowers COVID Threat Level to Orange 02/24/2022 02/24/2022 Harris County, Texas - February 24, 2022, Judge Lina Hidalgo today announced that she is lowering the county’s COVID-19 Threat Level Indicator from Level 1: Red to Level 2: Orange. The move comes as positive cases and COVID-19 ICU populations are decreasing. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Announces New $8 million Program to Support Parents, Educators, and Children with Early Childhood Initiatives 02/22/2022 02/22/2022 (Harris County, TX - February 22, 2022) - Harris County Commissioners Court on Tuesday awarded grantees a combined total of $7.9 million in American Rescue Plan funds provided by the Biden-Harris Administration to seed a targeted portfolio of early childhood programs, including resources for educators and new parents, and the expansion of home-based child care providers. Read More View More Images
Statement from Judge Lina Hidalgo on the One-Year Anniversary of the Texas Winter Storm 02/15/2022 02/15/2022 Harris County, TX - February 15, 2022 - One year ago, millions of people across Texas suffered and hundreds died from the winter freeze. Today, Judge Hidalgo released the following statement reflecting upon the one year anniversary of the Texas Winter Storm of 2021 Read More View More Images
Increase in COVID-19 Hospitalizations Triggers Increase in Harris County COVID-19 Threat Level 01/10/2022 01/10/2022 (Harris County, Texas) - January 10, 2022, Judge Lina Hidalgo today announced that she is raising the county’s COVID-19 Threat Level Indicator from Level 2: Orange to Level 1: Red. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Raises COVID-19 Threat Level to Level 2: Orange 12/20/2021 12/20/2021 Harris County, Texas - December 20, 2021, Judge Lina Hidalgo today announced that she is raising the county’s COVID-19 Threat Level Indicator from Level 3: Yellow to Level 2: Orange, the system’s second highest threat level. The threat level has increased due to a number of factors, including a rapid increase in new cases and positivity rate. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lowers County COVID-19 Threat Level to Level 3: Yellow 11/26/2021 11/26/2021 Harris County, Texas - November 26, 2021, Judge Lina Hidalgo today announced that she is lowering the county’s COVID-19 Threat Level from Level 2: Orange to Level 3: Yellow. Indicators demonstrate a further decrease in cases, hospitalizations, and positivity rates for COVID-19. Read More View More Images
Judge Hidalgo to Urge Passage of “Emergency Response Docket” for District Courts At Commissioners Court to Reduce Crime 07/19/2021 07/19/2021 Initiative builds on previous additional actions taken by Harris County to alleviate unacceptable backlog in criminal court cases driving crime Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Moves COVID-19 Threat Level to Level 3: Yellow 05/27/2021 05/27/2021 (Harris County, Texas) - May 27, 2021, Judge Lina Hidalgo today announced that she is moving the county’s COVID-19 Threat Level Indicator from Level 2: Orange to Level 3: Yellow, the system’s second-lowest threat level. Read More View More Images
Statement from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo on Flood Control Funds 05/26/2021 05/26/2021 (Harris County, TX) - May 26, 2021 - This week,our community stood united in outrage over the loss of vital Harvey mitigationfunds intended to protect us from future storms. Republicans, Democrats,business leaders, and residents from every corner of our county came togetherto call for these desperately needed resources. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Moves COVID-19 Threat Level to Level 2: Orange 05/18/2021 05/18/2021 (Harris County, Texas) - May 18, 2021, Judge Lina Hidalgo today announced that she is moving the county’s COVID-19 Threat Level Indicator from Level 1: Red to Level 2: Orange, the system’s second highest threat level. The move comes as a variety of indicators demonstrate significant progress in reducing the threat of COVID-19 and the availability, administration, and efficacy of vaccines for eligible age groups. Read More View More Images
Statement from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo on Texas Voter Suppression Legislation 05/07/2021 05/07/2021 "The tentatively approved voter suppression law is built on a pernicious lie, a lie that corrodes our American democracy from within by pushing the falsehood that widespread voter fraud exists in Texas. Each time this lie is told, each time policies are passed based on this lie, our democracy is weakened.... Read More View More Images
Harris County Launches On Demand COVID-19 Vaccine Appointment System; 55,000 COVID-19 Vaccine Appointments Now Available for the Week of April 19 04/16/2021 04/16/2021 (Harris County, TX) – Friday, April 16, 2021, Harris County Public Health (HCPH) today announced that it has opened 55,000 COVID-19 vaccines for the week of April 19th. In response to vaccine supply starting to meet demand, residents who sign up for a vaccine from HCPH will now be given appointment options immediately after registering for a vaccine while supplies last. Individuals will be provided with a choice of date, time, and location to get vaccinated upon registering online at ReadyHarris.org or via phone with the HCPH Vaccine Hotline. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Announces Personnel Updates 04/01/2021 04/01/2021 Today, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo announced several key personnel updates to the County Judge’s Office. After more than two years of service to the County Judge’s Office, Chief of Staff Joe Madden will step down from his position as Chief of Staff. Starting immediately, Alex Triantaphyllis will serve as Chief of Staff. Additionally, Rafael Lemaitre will expand his duties and serve as Senior Advisor in addition to his current role as Communications Director. Wallis Nader, who currently serves as Deputy Policy Director, will be appointed as Policy Director for Judge Hidalgo. Read More View More Images
Harris County Equity Efforts Significantly Enhancing COVID-19 Vaccine Access for Vulnerable Residents 03/25/2021 03/25/2021 (Harris County, Tx) - March 25, 2021, County Judge Lina Hidalgo today released updated demographic data indicating that Harris County Public Health Department (HCPH) vaccination efforts far outpace those of other providers (not including the City of Houston) in ensuring that vulnerable and hard-hit populations are receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. Read More View More Images
Additional $6.3 Million in Grants Invested by Houston Harris County Winter Storm Relief Fund in Area Nonprofits to Help Most Vulnerable 03/11/2021 03/11/2021 (HOUSTON, TX) - March 11, 2021 – The Houston Harris County Winter Storm Relief Fund announced it is investing an additional $6.3 million in area nonprofits serving the most vulnerable families and individuals. This follows the $1.65 million in emergency grants distributed on March 1. Read More View More Images
Statement from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo on State COVID-19 Executive Order: 03/02/2021 03/02/2021 (Harris County, Tx) - Tuesday March 2, 20201 - “Taking away critical public health interventions that we know are working won’t make our community safer, nor will it hasten our return to normalcy. .. Read More View More Images
$1.65 Million in Emergency Grants Invested by Houston Harris County Winter Storm Relief Fund in Area Nonprofits Serving Most Vulnerable 03/01/2021 03/01/2021 (Harris County, TX) - Monday, March1, 2021- As Houstonians begin to assess and address the costly damage caused by the recent extreme winter weather, the Houston Harris County Winter Storm Relief Fund is investing $1.65 million in emergency grants to support vulnerable families and individuals in critical need of home repairs due to busted pipes, water damage and prolonged power loss during the recent freezing temperatures. Read More View More Images
Harris County Commissioners Court to Hold Emergency Session 02/18/2021 02/18/2021 (Harris County TX) - Thursday 19 2021, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo announced an emergency session of the Harris County Commissioners Court will take place at 1 pm on Friday, February 19th, 2021. Read More View More Images
County Judge Lina Hidalgo Statement on Biden Administration to Increase Vaccine Capacity 02/10/2021 02/10/2021 (Harris County, TX) - Wednesday February 10, 2021, Judge Lina Hidalgo statement on the Biden Administration's announcement to increase COVID-19 vaccine capacity in Harris County: Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Launches New COVID-19 Campaign Targeting Vaccine Hesitancy 02/04/2021 02/04/2021 (Harris County, Texas) - Thursday, February 4, 2021, Judge Hidalgo and officials from Harris County Public Health today announced a new campaign designed to address vaccine hesitancy and urge residents to take additional action to stop the spread of COVID-19. Read More View More Images
Statement from Judge Hidalgo on the Cancellation of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo 02/03/2021 02/03/2021 (Harris County, TX) - Wednesday Feb 3, 2021 - Iwant to commend the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo for protecting the healthand safety of our community. The next few months are crucial to determining ifand how fast we’ll be able to reach herd immunity. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Provides an Update on County Progress to Ramp Up Environmental Monitoring and Enforcement 01/28/2021 01/28/2021 (Harris County) - Thursday 28, 2021 - Judge Outlines Series of Actions Accomplished Thus Far to Move from Reactive toProactive Posture After Decades of Neglect and Underinvestment. Read More View More Images
Harris County Public Health Expands Vaccine Registration Process with New COVID-19 Vaccination Portal 01/25/2021 01/25/2021 (Houston, TX) - Starting on Tuesday, January 26th, Harris County Public Health (HCPH) will launch anew COVID-19 Vaccination Portal for residents who meet the Texas Department of State Health Services(DSHS) criteria for receiving a vaccine. The portal will allow individuals to be placed on a waitlist andcontacted once vaccines and appointments are available. Read More View More Images
Statement from Judge Hidalgo on Appointment of Chief of Detention Shannon Kerklotz 01/06/2021 01/06/2021 (Harris County, TX) - Wednesday Jan 6th 2021 - “Thecreation of a Chief of Detentions post is a consequential turning point for ourjail and for Harris County. Meaningful reform to our criminal justice systemmeans taking stock of our entire system, from top to bottom.. Read More View More Images
Statement from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo on FDA Advisory Committee Endorsement of Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine 12/10/2020 12/10/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Thursday December 10, 2020 - Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo released the following statement in response to the Food and Drug Administration advisory committee’s endorsement of a COVID-19 vaccine:“The development of a COVID-19 vaccine within a year is an incredible human achievement. It’s a testament to the power of modern medicine, science, and the tireless efforts of researchers and institutions - many from right here in Harris County - who have worked so hard to finally bring light to the end of this tunnel. Read More View More Images
Statement from Harris County Judge Hidalgo on 2021 Plans for Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo 12/08/2020 12/08/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Tuesday December 8,2020 - Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo issued the following statement regarding plans for the 2021 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo:“The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is part of the DNA that makes up who we are as Harris County. It’s an incredible forum for world class competition, entertainment, and scholarship. Read More View More Images
Statement from Judge Hidalgo on Texas Surpassing One Million COVID-19 Cases 11/11/2020 11/11/2020 (Harris County, TX) - November 11, 2020 - Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo released the following statement: “What we’re seeing here in Texas is what happens when you let denial and politics drive public health policy. It’s tragic not only because of the alarming trends we’re seeing, but also because we’re stuck in a vicious cycle of wishful thinking and unsustainable reopenings.... Read More View More Images
Statement from Harris County Judge Hidalgo on Federal Court Decision on Drive-Thru Voting 11/02/2020 11/02/2020 (Harris County, TX) - November 2, 2020, Harris County Judge Hidalgo released the following statement regarding the decision by the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas on drive-thru voting: Read More View More Images
Statement from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo on the Appointment of Isabel Longoria to the Position of Harris County Elections Administrator 10/30/2020 10/30/2020 (Harris County Tx) - October 30, 2020, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo announced the appointment of Isabel Longoria as Harris County Elections Administrator. The new Elections Administrator position - created by Commissioners Court in July - will conduct all voter registration work previously conducted by the Tax assessor-collector and election management work conducted by the County clerk’s office. Read More View More Images
Harris County Commissioners Court Approves $10 Million Investment in Early Childhood Development 10/28/2020 10/28/2020 (Harris County, TX) - October 28, 2020, Harris County Commissioners Court on Tuesday approved the Early Childhood Impact Fund, a $10 million accelerator of innovative and evidence-based programs designed to help children thrive. Over a period of two to three years, the initiative will provide seed investments to programs with significant potential to dramatically improve early childhood outcomes and provide critical support for young children and their families. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Urges Governor Abbott to Guarantee Validity of Votes Cast at Drive-Thru Early Voting Locations 10/22/2020 10/22/2020 (Harris County, TX) - October 22, 2020, County Judge Lina Hidalgo today sent a letter to Governor Greg Abbott urging him to assure voters that ballots cast through drive-thru voting will not be invalidated by state officials. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Releases new Drive-Thru Voting PSA Featuring “Curbside Larry” 10/14/2020 10/14/2020 (Harris County, TX) - October 14, 2020, As early voting continues in Harris County, County Judge Lina Hidalgo todayreleased a new explainer video on drive-thru voting. The PSA features John “Curbside Larry” Schaffer and outlines for eligible voters how safe and easy drive-thru voting is. Read More View More Images
County Judge Lina Hidalgo: Indoor, maskless gatherings should not be taking place right now, and this applies to bars as well 10/08/2020 10/08/2020 (Harris County, TX) - October 7, 2020, County Judge Lina Hidalgo today issued the followingstatement: “Months ago,we established the Harris County Threat Level System - critical public healthbenchmarks to determine the county’s level of reopening and make way forsustainable, long-term reopenings. We have not been able to enforce the ThreatLevel System, which has led to a much slower decrease in the virusincidence. Read More View More Images
Statement from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo on State Voter Suppression Efforts 10/01/2020 10/01/2020 (Harris County, TX) - October 1, 2020, County Judge Lina Hidalgo today issued the following statement in response to Governor Abbott’s executive order closing down 11 mail-in ballot drop-off locations in Harris County 33 days before the general election. Governor Abbott’s proclamation reverses previous state guidance allowing counties to provide voters with multiple official ballot drop off locations and leaves Harris County with only one ballot drop-off site. Read More View More Images
Statement from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo on Governor Abbott’s Reopening Plans 09/17/2020 09/17/2020 (Harris County, TX) - September 17, 2020, County Judge Lina Hidalgo today issued the following statement in response to reopening plans announced by Governor Abbott:“Thanks to the hard work and sacrifice of our residents, trends are moving in the right direction, but we cannot let our guard down and we are not out of the woods. There isn’t a single person in Harris County who wants our businesses, schools or other facets of daily life to remain closed longer than they need to, but this virus hasn’t gone away and my commitment to the residents is to ensure the County’s position reflects responsible steps that must be taken for a sustainable new normal. Read More View More Images
Harris County Establishes New COVID-19 Domestic Violence Assistance Fund 09/15/2020 09/15/2020 (Harris County, TX) - September 15, 2020, Judge Hidalgo today announced that Harris County Commissioners Court has approved $2,178,550 to support survivors of domestic violence during the COVID-19 pandemic. The funding, approved by the court, will establish a Harris County COVID-19 Domestic Violence Assistance program to bridge gaps in assistance for survivors by providing an array of services including childcare, food, transportation and housing. Read More View More Images
Judge Hidalgo, Harris County Commissioners Court Declares September Child Cancer Awareness Month 09/15/2020 09/15/2020 (Harris County, TX) - September 15, 2020, Judge Hidalgo today announced that Harris County Commissioners Court has passed a resolution recognizing September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. The resolution was passed unanimously by all five members of the court. Read More View More Images
Statement from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo on the "Ike Dike" 08/27/2020 08/27/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Thursday, August 27, 2020, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo today issued the following statement regarding the need to invest in flood mitigation. “It shouldn’t take a near miss of a catastrophic hurricane to force our national leaders to recognize the urgency of investing in flood infrastructure, including a coastal barrier for Galveston Bay. Read More View More Images
Harris County Commissioners Court to Launch Emergency Rental Assistance Program 08/14/2020 08/14/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Friday, August 14, 2020, The Harris County Commissioners and Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo unanimously approved a $15 million emergency rental assistance program to help individuals in Harris County suffering economic hardships due to the effects of COVID-19. Due to the overwhelming demand for rental assistance in Harris County, Judge Hidalgo and the Commissioners subsequently increased the amount of assistance to be provided through this program to $25 million. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Releases Harris County Roadmap to Reopen Schools 08/12/2020 08/12/2020 (Harris County,TX) August 12, 2020 - Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and Harris CountyPublic Health today released a roadmap to reopening schools, a data-driven planto advise local school districts on what thresholds to use when considering to reopenschools. The guidance, developed based on national and international researchand with the input of public health experts and school officials, is designedto put Harris County schools on track for a realistic, responsible, safe, andsustainable reopening. It includes a common set of metrics school leadersshould rely on and actions those leaders should take once those milestones areachieved. Read More View More Images
WHITE OAK BAYOU FEDERAL PROJECT EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED IN 2021 07/29/2020 07/29/2020 (HOUSTON, TX) Wednesday 29,2020 - With the first of two remaining construction segments set to begin in fall 2020, the White Oak Bayou Federal Flood Damage Reduction Project is expected to be completed in 2021. Construction on the first 10-mile stretch of White Oak Bayou from Hollister Road upstream to F.M. 1960 includes excavation work to widen and deepen White Oak Bayou. Additional work includes replacing and modifying drainage pipes that direct stormwater into the bayou. Read More View More Images
Harris County and City of Houston Local Health Authorities Sign Joint Health Order Requiring Suspension of In-Person Instruction for all Public and Non-Religious Private Schools Until at Least September 8 07/24/2020 07/24/2020 (Harris County, TX) - July 24, 2020, Umair A. Shah, MD, MPH, Executive Director of Harris County Public Health (HCPH) and Local Health Authority for Harris County, and David Persse, MD, FACEP, FAEMS, Local Health Authority for the Houston Health Department, today signed a joint public health order requiring all public and non-religious private schools in Harris County to remain closed to in-person instruction until at least September 8. The start of on-campus instruction and activity may be delayed further based on ongoing monitoring and assessment of public health mitigation conditions. Read More View More Images
Statement from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo on In-Person Instruction in Schools 07/20/2020 07/20/2020 (Harris County, TX) - July 20, 2020, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and Executive Director of Harris County Public Health Dr. Umair Shah today sent a letter to school district superintendents across the County outlining a series of recommendations schools should take to protect the health and safety of students, teachers, staff, and the community as a whole, including delayed opening for in-person instruction. Read More View More Images
Application Period Opens for Harris County Small Business Recovery Fund 07/13/2020 07/13/2020 (Harris County, TX) - July 13, 2020, Eligible businesses can apply for financial assistance through the Harris County Small Business Recovery Fund today through Friday, July 24. The $30 million grant program, which was unanimously approved by the Harris County Commissioners Court on June 30, prioritizes struggling small businesses that have not yet received funds from other COVID-19 relief programs. Read More View More Images
Consul General of Mexico, Harris County Judge Urge Hispanic, Latino Residents to Get Tested for COVID-19 07/08/2020 07/08/2020 Wednesday, July 8 - Harris County’s Hispanic and Latino residents can feel safe as they seek testing for COVID-19 at county testing sites, Consul General of Mexico in Houston Alicia Kerber-Palma and Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo said Tuesday. Read More View More Images
Statement from Harris County Judge Hidalgo on New Statewide Face Covering Mandate 07/02/2020 07/02/2020 Today, Judge Hidalgo released the following statement regarding the statewide executive order mandating the use of face coverings in public spaces: Read More View More Images
City of Houston, Harris County and Coalition For the Homeless Announce Joint $65M Plan to House 5,000 People Experiencing Homelessness 07/01/2020 07/01/2020 (Houston, Texas) — July 1, 2020, The City of Houston, Harris County, and the Coalition for the Homeless today announced a joint, $65-million plan to house 5,000 people experiencing homelessness over the next two years to limit the spread of COVID-19. The Community-wide COVID-19 Housing Program (CCHP) represents an unprecedented coordinated effort on the part of the City and the County to address homelessness in the region. Read More View More Images
Harris County Announces $30 Million Grant Program to Assist Small Businesses Impacted by COVID-19 06/30/2020 06/30/2020 (Harris County, TX) - June 30, 2020, County Judge Lina Hidalgo and each of the Harris County commissioners voted unanimously to approve the Small Business Recovery Fund (SBRF) program, a $30,000,000 grant program established to assist struggling small businesses who have been unable to obtain financial assistance from other COVID-19 relief programs. Read More View More Images
Statement from Judge Hidalgo on COVID-19 Exposure 06/28/2020 06/28/2020 (Harris County, TX) - June 28, 2020, Today, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo announced that she is self-quarantining after being potentially exposed to COVID-19 last week. The exposure came on Monday, June 22 via a member of the Harris County Judge’s office whose positive test results were confirmed over the weekend and is self-isolating. Judge Hidalgo and staff who were potentially exposed will be tested and are self-quarantining for 14 days from exposure until Monday July 6 following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Judge Hidalgo has not shown any symptoms. Read More View More Images
Harris County Threat Level Upgraded to ‘Severe’ as COVID-19 Spread Continues Record-breaking Climb 06/26/2020 06/26/2020 (Harris County, TX) - June 26, 2020, Today at noon, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo will update the county’s COVID-19 public threat level from significant (orange, level two) to severe (red, level one). Level one indicates a “severe and uncontrolled” level of COVID-19, meaning outbreaks are worsening, contact tracing capacity is strained or exceeded, and healthcare surge is likely. The elevation to threat level 1 - the highest in the system - comes as a variety of data demonstrate alarming trends that are on track to overwhelm the local healthcare system. Read More View More Images
Harris County COVID-19 Relief Fund Sees Record Number of Applicants in Second Phase of Funding 06/25/2020 06/25/2020 (Harris County, TX) - June 25, 2020, The Harris County COVID-19 Relief Fund opened its application this week for aid to the public as part of its second phase of funding. The application, which was available online and over the phone, was inundated by tens of thousands of Harris County residents seeking assistance from the fund. Read More View More Images
Housing Stability Task Force Members Represent Service Providers, Property Owners, Tenants and Advocates 06/24/2020 06/24/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Wednesday, June 24, 2020, Harris County and City of Houston recovery czars Rep. Armando Walle and Marvin Odum on Wednesday announced the names of the members of a joint task force designed to bridge gaps in housing stability. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Announces New COVID-19 Health and Safety Requirements for Businesses 06/19/2020 06/19/2020 (Harris County, Tx) - June 19, 2020, As hospital admissions for COVID-19 continue to climb across the county, today, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo signed an order requiring businesses to generate, post, and implement health and safety policies which include, at a minimum, a requirement that workers, customers or visitors wear face coverings. The order takes effect at 12:01 am on Monday, June 22, 2020. Read More View More Images
Harris County Business Health and Safety Policy Order (Face Coverings Requirement) 06/19/2020 06/19/2020 (Harris County, TX) — Friday, June 19, 2020, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo signed an order requiring businesses to generate, post, and implement health and safety policies which include, at a minimum, a requirement that workers, customers or visitors wear face coverings. The order has been extended until at least 11:59 pm on Wednesday, August 26th, 2020. Read More View More Images
Statement from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo on DACA 06/18/2020 06/18/2020 (Harris County, TX) - June 18, 2020, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo issued the following statement in response to the U.S. Supreme Court Decision on Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Read More View More Images
Harris County COVID-19 Relief Fund to Open Public Application for Aid 06/17/2020 06/17/2020 (Harris County, TX) - June 17, 2020, The Harris County COVID-19 Relief Fund will open its public application to all eligible Harris County residents in its second phase of fund deployment. The public application will be open Tuesday, June 23 and Wednesday, June 24, 2020. Read More View More Images
HARRIS COUNTY COVID-19 RELIEF FUND DISTRIBUTES $15 MILLION IN AID TO LOCAL COMMUNITY-BASED ORGANIZATIONS 06/12/2020 06/12/2020 (HOUSTON, TX) -June 12, 2020 – The Harris County COVID-19 Relief Fund is disbursing $15 million to 44 local, community-based organizations that will provide vulnerable individuals and families support for housing, electricity, food, childcare, and other essential needs. Read More View More Images
City, County Announce Task Force to Tackle Looming Threat of Evictions, Improve Housing Stability 06/11/2020 06/11/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Thursday, June 11, 2020, - County and city recovery leaders on Thursday announced the formation of a task force to prevent evictions while bridging gaps in housing stability that have been exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Announces Harris County COVID-19 Threat Level System as County Hospital Admissions Reach Highest Level to Date 06/11/2020 06/11/2020 (Harris County, Tx) - June 11, 2020, As hospital admissions for COVID-19 in Harris County reach their highest level ever, today County Judge Lina Hidalgo unveiled a new public threat level system designed to help residents understand the threat level from COVID-19 and provide clear guidance on steps the general public must take to protect themselves, their community, and support the conditions to avoid a crisis and sustainably reopen the local economy. The system, informed by the latest data from local health authorities, research institutions, and public health experts, informs a color-coded level indicator for residents displaying the level of COVID-19 threat. Read More View More Images
Statement from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo on George Floyd and Protests in Harris County 05/31/2020 05/31/2020 (Harris County, Texas) - May 31, 2020, County Judge Lina Hidalgo today issued the following statement in response to the death of George Floyd and ongoing protests occurring in Harris County: Read More View More Images
Harris County $30 Million COVID-19 Relief Fund Established To Support Most Vulnerable in County 05/28/2020 05/28/2020 (Houston, TX) - May 28, 2020– Harris County has established the Harris County COVID-19 Relief Fund to provide much-needed relief to Harris County residents most impacted by the global pandemic. The $30 million fund, which will be administered by Greater Houston Community Foundation, aims to strategically serve a large number of the most vulnerable people, in particular county residents who may not be eligible for other COVID-related funding and/or who cannot afford to wait for assistance. Read More View More Images
Harris County to Open Free COVID-19 Testing Sites in Pasadena and Cy-Fair 05/28/2020 05/28/2020 (Harris County, Texas) - May 28, 2020, County Judge Lina Hidalgo and the Harris County Department of Public Health today announced the county’s two largest COVID-19 test sites will be moved to new locations. The testing sites will move to Pasadena and Cy-Fair from Baytown and Katy and will begin services June 1 , weather permitting. Saturday, May 30, will be the last day the Baytown and Katy sites will be open and residents in those areas who need to be tested are encouraged to take action to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Smaller mobile sites will continue to visit the Baytown and Katy area periodically. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Announces Worker Protection Guidelines for Businesses, Manufacturing & Construction Reopening during Pandemic 05/21/2020 05/21/2020 (Harris County, TX) - May 21, 2020, County Judge Lina Hidalgo today announced worker protection guidelines for retail businesses and construction sites as they reopen during the COVID-19 pandemic. The recommended guidelines, which include screening workers for symptoms, conducting routine disinfection, and staggering shifts when practicable, intend to provide baseline safeguards to ensure employees and customers are protected as facilities open for business and construction activity increases. Read More View More Images
Statement from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo on the Resumption of Eviction and Debt-Collection Proceedings 05/18/2020 05/18/2020 (Harris County, TX) - May 18, 2020, County Judge Lina Hidalgo today issued the following statement in response to the Texas Supreme Court’s removal of emergency protections halting eviction and debt-collection proceedings during the COVID-19 pandemic. Read More View More Images
Statement from Harris County Judge on the Resignation of County Clerk Diane Trautman 05/09/2020 05/09/2020 (Harris County, TX) - May 9, 2020, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo today released the following statement regarding the resignation of Harris County Clerk Diane Trautman. Hidalgo accepted Trautman’s resignation earlier today and Trautman’s final day as County Clerk will be May 31st: Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Announces Framework to Guide County Containment Efforts COVID-19 Amid Statewide Orders to Reopen Economy 04/28/2020 04/28/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Tuesday, April 28, 2020 - Today, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo announced a three-point framework designed to contain the spread of COVID-19 as a phased approach to reopen the economy across Texas begins to ramp up. The framework contains three key components, including increased tracing of positive cases, enhanced testing capacity, and continued efforts to ensure there is enough healthcare capacity to weather a spike in cases. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Announces Strike Team to Bring COVID-19 Testing to Senior Centers, High-risk Communities 04/27/2020 04/27/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Monday, April 27, 2020 - Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo today announced the launch of a Harris County COVID-19 Strike Team to identify high-risk congregate settings and bring testing to them. Starting Tuesday, the team, composed of county epidemiologists, public health experts, social workers, and testing staff, will conduct site assessments, provide recommendations or control orders where needed, and provide the ability to test large groups of residents and staff at locations such as senior centers, nursing homes, and shelters. Read More View More Images
Texas Policy Lab partners with Harris County judge on COVID-19 response 04/23/2020 04/23/2020 (Harris County, TX) – April 23, 2020 - The Texas Policy Lab (TPL) in Rice University's School of Social Sciences has joined Harris County in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Orders Residents to Wear Masks in Public for Next 30 Days 04/22/2020 04/22/2020 (Harris County, TX) - April 22, 2020, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo on Wednesday issued an order requiring residents to wear masks when in public for the next 30 days, beginning on Monday, April 27, 2020. The order requires individuals over the age of 10 to wear a face covering, which can be a homemade mask, scarf, bandana, or handkerchief, when outside the home. Medical masks or N-95 respirators are not recommended as they are needed for health-care workers and first responders. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Appoints State Representative Armando Walle to Lead COVID-19 County Relief and Recovery Effort 04/20/2020 04/20/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Monday, April 20, 2020, County Judge Lina Hidalgo on Monday selected State Representative Armando Walle to lead the COVID-19 pandemic relief and recovery effort on her behalf. As Harris County COVID-19 Relief and Recovery Czar, Rep. Walle is tasked with leading the effort to drive the region’s economic recovery. Read More View More Images
Governor Abbott, Harris County Judge Hidalgo Joint Statement On New Walgreens Testing Sites 04/15/2020 04/15/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Wednesday, April 15, 2020, AUSTIN - Governor Greg Abbott and Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo today announced two new COVID-19 drive-through testing sites for Harris County in partnership with Walgreens. These sites are set to come online Friday, April 17th, and will have the capacity to conduct 200 tests per day at each location. For the past week, Governor Abbott has been working with Judge Hidalgo and Walgreens to bring these sites online and increase Harris County's testing capacity. Testing in these locations will be available by appointment and individuals will first need to complete a digital health assessment to determine eligibility using criteria establish by CDC. Read More View More Images
Harris County Expands COVID-19 Testing Capacity with 2 Additional Pop-up Locations, Doubles Testing Capacity at Existing Sites 04/13/2020 04/13/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Monday, April 13, 2020, County Judge Lina Hidalgo today announced two new Harris County Public Health (HCPH) mobile units will provide drive-through testing for COVID-19, adding up to 200 tests per day to the county’s current testing capacity. Each pop-up site, which will rotate locations across the precincts starting Tuesday, will be able to up to 100 drive-through tests per day. Additionally, testing capacity at HCPH’s two existing stationary sites will increase to 500 tests per location, per day, starting Wednesday. Read More View More Images
TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF HARRIS COUNTY PARKS 04/08/2020 04/08/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Wednesday, March 11, 2020, a Declaration of Local Disaster for Public Health Emergency was issued to allow Harris County to take measures to reduce the possibility of exposure to COVID-19 and promote the health and safety of Harris County residents Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Closes All County Parks 04/08/2020 04/08/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Thursday, April 8, 2020, County Judge Lina Hidalgo today will sign an order closing all county public parks. The closures begin Thursday evening, April 9th at 8pm and will last through Monday April 13th at 8am; prohibiting the use of county parks. Read More View More Images
NEW RESOURCE LAUNCHED TO HELP ESSENTIAL WORKERS FIND CHILD CARE 04/06/2020 04/06/2020 (Houston, TX) - Monday, April 6, 2020 – Collaborative for Children and Workforce Solutions, in partnership with the City of Houston and Harris County, has launched a resource dedicated to helping essential workers find quality child care during the COVID-19 pandemic. The easy-to-use portal launched today at 8 a.m. Read More View More Images
Statement from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo on Harris County Surpassing 1,000 Cases of COVID-19, 13 Fatalities 04/03/2020 04/03/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Friday, March 3, 2020, our county reached a grim milestone. Within Harris County, including the City of Houston, more than 1,000 residents have now tested positive. Deaths have now entered the double-digits - 13 people have had their lives stolen by COVID-19. Read More View More Images
Order by Harris County Judge Releasing Detainees with Nonviolent Charges 04/01/2020 04/01/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Wednesday, March 11, 2020, a Declaration of Local Disaster for Public Health Emergency was issued to allow Harris County to take measures to reduce the possibility of exposure to COVID-19 and promote the health and safety of Harris County residents Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Extends Stay at Home, Work Safe Order to April 30 03/31/2020 03/31/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Tuesday, March 31, 2020, As the region continues to see growth in COVID-19 cases, County Judge Lina Hidalgo today announced she will extend the county’s Stay Home-Work Safe order to 11:59 p.m. on April 30. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Approves Waiver Enabling HCC to Manufacture Protective Face Shields 03/26/2020 03/26/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Thursday, March 26, 2020 - County Judge Lina Hidalgo on Thursday approved a waiver that will allow Houston Community College to use high-capacity 3D printing labs to produce mass quantities of protective face shields while operating as “Essential Critical Infrastructure.” Read More View More Images
Harris County Launches Online Screening Tool to Streamline COVID-19 Testing, Two Additional Testing Sites for Residents 03/23/2020 03/23/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Monday, March 23, 2020 - Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and Dr. Umair Shah, Executive Director of Harris County Public Health, City of Houston partners on Monday announced an online COVID-19 assessment tool for residents who believe they are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms such as fever or dry cough. The online screening tool is available now at ReadyHarris.org. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, Mayor Sylvester Turner and Regional Public Health Officials Release Updated Community Guidelines To Address COVID-19 03/12/2020 03/12/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Thursday, March 12, 2020 - Today, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and Executive Director of Harris County Public Health Dr. Umair Shah released new community guidelines designed to augment the regional response to coronavirus (COVID-19). Read More View More Images
HCPH | Harris County Launches Coronavirus Call Center for Residents without Access to Healthcare 03/10/2020 03/10/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Tuesday, March 10, 2020 -Harris County Public Health (HCPH), in partnership with Harris Health announced a call center resource for residents in unincorporated Harris County who do not have a healthcare provider and who need access to coronavirus-related care. Read More View More Images
Statement from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo on Fort Bend County Coronavirus Test 03/04/2020 03/04/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Wednesday, March 4, 2020, Testing has indicated that a Fort Bend County resident tested presumptive positive for COVID19. The individual is currently hospitalized in Fort Bend County and in stable condition. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Hidalgo Releases Playlist on “Go Texan Day,” Official Start of Festivities for the 2020 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo 02/28/2020 02/28/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Friday, February 28, 2020, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo will join elected officials, volunteers, businesses and residents to celebrate Go Texan Day and the start of official festivities for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. In the spirit of the arrival of this year’s festivities, Judge Hidalgo released a playlist showcasing her picks for music to celebrate rodeo season in Harris County, comprised of artists who have performed or will perform at the rodeo. Read More View More Images
Statement from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Regarding COVID-19 02/28/2020 02/28/2020 (Harris County, TX) – Friday, February 28, 2020 - We want to reassure our residents that their county governments are working closely with the local municipalities within our geographical boundaries and regions to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses such as the flu and COVID-19. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Announces County Immigrant Legal Services Program 02/25/2020 02/25/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Tuesday, February 25, 2020, Judge Hidalgo announced that Harris County Commissioners Court approved a plan to design, administer funds for, and oversee a legal services program for county residents in need of immigration-related legal support. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Hidalgo and Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner Announce Restaurant and Bar Closures to Help Slow Spread of COVID-19 02/16/2020 02/16/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Monday, March 16, 2020 - Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo joined Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner to announce additional measures to slow the spread of COVID-19 across the Houston metropolitan area. The announcement ordered restaurants, bars, and nightclubs to close with the exception of take out, delivery, or drive-through services. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Launches Coronavirus Rumor Control Resource For Residents 02/11/2020 02/11/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Tuesday, February 11, 2020, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo announced a new resource for Harris County residents concerned about the spread of novel coronavirus (n-COV). Since the outbreak of coronavirus was detected in Wuhan, China in December 2019, several unsubstantiated and misleading rumors regarding the virus have spread across Harris County online and via social media. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Announces First Early Childhood Listening Session 02/05/2020 02/05/2020 (Harris County, TX) - Wednesday, February 5, 2020, County Judge Lina Hidalgo announced the launch of a series of community conversations designed to gather input for programs that support early childhood development across Harris County. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Hidalgo Releases Running Playlist ahead of Houston Chevron Marathon 01/16/2020 01/16/2020 (Harris County, TX) - January 16, 2020, On Sunday, January 19, 2020, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo will join more than 30,000 runners, volunteers, and spectators from Harris County and across the world for the 48th annual Houston Marathon, the largest single-day sporting event in Houston. An avid runner who has trained to participate in this year's race, Judge Hidalgo released her personal marathon training Spotify playlist. Read More View More Images
Harris County Launches Confidential Reporting System to Combat Fraud, Waste or Abuse 01/09/2020 01/09/2020 (Harris County, TX) – January 9, 2020 - Harris County Launches Confidential Reporting System to Combat Fraud, Waste or Abuse Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge to Urge Residents to “Resolve” to Purchase Flood Insurance in 2020 01/07/2020 01/07/2020 (Harris County, TX) – January 7, 2020 - Judge Hidalgo to Highlight Need for Residents to Protect Themselves Now Regardless of Whether or Not They Reside in a High-Risk Zone; Provide Readout of Meeting with Acting FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor Read More View More Images
Groundbreaking Upgrades to FEMA National Wireless Alerting System to Improve Targeting, Message Size and Accessibility for Harris County Residents During Emergencies 12/19/2019 12/19/2019 (Harris County, TX) – December 19, 2019 - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today announced major improvements to Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) messages, part of the Integrated Public Alert & Warning System (IPAWS). WEA messaging is used to communicate risks and threats through mobile devices like smartphones that are connected to cellular data networks. Common uses include extreme weather emergencies and AMBER Alerts. The improvement comes after substantial negotiation and input from the Harris County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HCOHSEM). Read More View More Images
Statement from Harris County Judge Hidalgo on Sergeant Christopher Brewster 12/08/2019 12/08/2019 (Harris County, TX) – December 8, 2019 - We are absolutely heartbroken over the horrific murder of Houston Police Sergeant Christopher Brewster. On behalf of Harris County and residents he served, I want to express our deepest sympathy and gratitude to his family, friends and colleagues. Read More View More Images
Judge Lina Hidalgo on Chief United States District Judge Lee Rosenthal’s Decision on Bail Reform 11/22/2019 11/22/2019 (Harris County, TX) - November 22, 2019 - Statement from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo on Chief United States District Judge Lee Rosenthal’s Decision on Bail ReformMemorandum Opinion and Consent Decree Read More View More Images
County Judge Hidalgo Outlines Key Accomplishments During First State of the County Address 11/15/2019 11/15/2019 (Harris County, TX) - November 15, 2019 - County Judge Hidalgo Outlines Key Accomplishments During First State of the County Address, Announces New Focus on Early Childhood Development Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Highlights Commitment of County Funds for Safe Surrender Gun Safety Program 11/12/2019 11/12/2019 (Harris County, TX) – November 12, 2019, Harris County Commissioners Court voted on two measures related to gun safety, including the formal expansion of a “Safe Surrender” pilot program designed to protect victims of domestic violence. Read More View More Images
Judge Hidalgo, Sheriff Gonzalez Announce Measures to Protect Harris County Residents, Reduce Gun-Related Violence 10/29/2019 10/29/2019 (Harris County, TX) – October 29, 2019, The expansion of a weapon-surrender program designed to protect victims of domestic violence was among several gun-safety initiatives announced by Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and Sheriff Ed Gonzalez Tuesday at Commissioners Court. Read More View More Images
Imelda Assistance Fund Announces Advisory Board and Grants Committee Members 10/25/2019 10/25/2019 (Harris County, TX) - October 25, 2019, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner and Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo established the Imelda Assistance Fund, in cooperation with the Greater Houston Community Foundation (GHCF), for survivors following Tropical Storm Imelda. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Announces Additional Federal Resources for Imelda Recovery 10/24/2019 10/24/2019 (Harris County, TX) - Friday, October 4, 2019 - Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo today announced that Tropical Storm Imelda survivors in Harris County will be eligible to apply for additional resources from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to assist in their recovery. Read More View More Images
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Announces Opening of FEMA Disaster Recovery Center 10/18/2019 10/18/2019 (Harris County, TX) - October 18, 2019, County Judge Lina Hidalgo today announced the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will open a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to assist Tropical Storm Imelda survivors. Read More View More Images
Statement from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo 10/08/2019 10/08/2019 (Harris County, TX) - October 8, 2019 - Statement from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Read More View More Images
Harris County to Open Local Recovery Centers for Survivors of Tropical Storm Imelda 09/29/2019 09/29/2019 (Harris County, TX) – September 21, 2019 - Today, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo announced additional recovery resources available to survivors of Tropical Storm Imelda. Read More View More Images
Statement from Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo on Deputy Sandeep Singh Dhaliwal 09/27/2019 09/27/2019 (Harris County, TX) - September 27, 2019 - We are heartbroken to learn that Deputy Sandeep Singh Dhaliwal - a father, husband, and tenyear veteran of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office - was taken away from us today. Read More View More Images
El Condado de Harris abrirá centros locales de recuperación para sobrevivientes de la Tormenta Tropical Imelda 09/22/2019 09/22/2019 (Harris County, TX) - September 22, 2019 - Hoy, la Jueza del Condado de Harris Lina Hidalgo anunció recursos de recuperación adicionales disponibles para los sobrevivientes de la Tormenta Tropical Imelda. Read More View More Images
Harris County Commissioners Court Takes Action to Significantly Ramp Up Environmental Protection, Monitoring, and Enforcement 09/10/2019 09/10/2019 (Harris County, TX) - Tuesday, September 10, 2019, Harris County Commissioners Court approved a total of $11.6 million to expand and modernize the county’s ability to protect the environment and enable a proactive response to any potential threats to public health and safety. Read More View More Images