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Kevin Warsh Says AI Could Create Jobs as Inflation Risks Ease

Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh said Wednesday that inflation risks appear to be declining, while artificial intelligence could strengthen the U.S. economy over time. His Kevin Warsh AI jobs remarks came during a central banking forum in Sintra, Portugal, where he also stressed the Fed’s independence.

Warsh said inflation expectations have moved lower in recent weeks, according to the Associated Press. Still, he made clear that the Fed does not plan to accept inflation above its 2% goal.

Kevin Warsh AI Jobs Outlook

Warsh said the United States could benefit from artificial intelligence as the technology spreads through the economy. He said AI may increase productivity, expand supply and support job growth over the long term.

The Fed chair also acknowledged that the timing remains uncertain. Many businesses are still testing AI tools, and economists continue to debate how quickly the technology will reshape hiring.

According to Anadolu Agency, Warsh described the AI shift as being in an early stage. He said employment and prosperity could improve as the transformation continues.

However, the short-term picture remains mixed. AI infrastructure spending can raise costs for chips, computing equipment and electricity. Those costs may add pressure to inflation before productivity gains appear.

Inflation Pressures Show Signs of Easing

Warsh said inflation risks have moderated since his first weeks as Fed chair. He pointed to surveys and bond market measures that show lower inflation expectations.

At the same time, inflation remains above the Fed’s target. AP reported that inflation rose to 4.2% in May, partly because the Iran war pushed gas prices higher. Gas prices have since declined after a peace agreement.

That shift could give the Fed more time before making another interest rate move. Lower energy prices often help reduce headline inflation, though core costs can remain sticky.

Warsh said businesses and households should not expect the central bank to tolerate inflation above 2%. He said the Fed remains focused on price stability.

Fed Avoids Interest Rate Signals

Warsh declined to say whether the Fed could raise interest rates at its July 28-29 meeting. He repeated his opposition to forward guidance, which is when central bank leaders signal future policy moves.

The Fed held rates steady at its June 16-17 meeting. Its current target range stands at 3.5% to 3.75%, according to recent Fed materials listed on the Federal Reserve website.

Nearly half of Fed policymakers signaled support for higher rates this year. Others preferred no change, while one projected a cut.

Warsh said policymakers would review the data before deciding. A strong jobs report could reduce pressure to lower rates, while persistent inflation could keep rate hikes on the table.

What It Means for Workers and Families

The Fed’s next steps matter for households, small businesses and workers across the country. Higher interest rates can make credit cards, auto loans, mortgages and business borrowing more expensive.

Warsh’s comments also show that AI has become a central economic issue. The technology may create new types of work, but it may also change existing jobs.

For Latino families and business owners, the key takeaway is practical. Inflation, interest rates and AI-driven job changes will continue to shape household budgets, hiring and long-term career planning.

Trump Made Millions From Hollywood-Linked Deals Last Year, Filings Show

Trump Hollywood income came from several entertainment and media-related sources in 2025, according to newly released federal financial disclosures. The filings show President Donald Trump reported money tied to media settlements, performer pensions and residual payments from past television and movie appearances.

The largest Hollywood-linked amounts did not come from acting work. Instead, they came from settlements involving major media companies, including Disney-owned ABC and Paramount-owned CBS.

Trump Hollywood Income Included Media Settlements

Trump’s 2025 financial disclosure, released by the U.S. Office of Government Ethics, listed more than $86 million in legal settlements involving media and technology companies, according to reports from the Associated Press and other outlets.

Those settlements included payments connected to lawsuits involving ABC, CBS, Meta, YouTube and X. Some of the money was directed toward Trump’s future presidential library or related purposes, based on previously announced settlement terms.

ABC News agreed in 2024 to pay $15 million toward Trump’s future presidential library to settle a defamation lawsuit. The case involved comments made by anchor George Stephanopoulos about the civil case brought by writer E. Jean Carroll.

Paramount, the parent company of CBS, agreed in 2025 to pay $16 million to settle Trump’s lawsuit over a “60 Minutes” interview with Kamala Harris. Paramount said the money would go to Trump’s future presidential library and not directly to Trump.

Small Residuals From TV and Film Work

The financial disclosure also showed smaller payments from Trump’s past entertainment work. The filing listed a Screen Actors Guild pension of $84,292 and an American Federation of Television and Radio Artists pension of $7,997.

Trump also reported residuals from earlier movie and television appearances. The filing listed $333.31 from WB Studio Enterprises for projects including “Two Weeks Notice,” “Suddenly Susan” and “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.”

Paramount Picture Corporation also appeared in the disclosure. The filing listed $371.82 in residuals tied to New York, while another Paramount entry from Hollywood, California, showed no income or less than $201.

Entertainment Partners was also listed for residual income tied to “Zoolander,” “The Nanny” and “Sex and the City.” Those individual programs generated less than $200, according to the filing.

Disclosure Shows Broader Business Income

The entertainment-related income was only one part of Trump’s broader financial picture. The Associated Press reported that Trump took in nearly $1.2 billion from crypto businesses last year.

The disclosure also listed income from real estate, licensing, merchandise and investments. Federal disclosure forms often use broad ranges, so they do not always show exact values for every asset.

Trump has said he does not manage his finances directly. The White House has rejected claims that his business activity creates conflicts of interest.

Still, the filings drew attention because they showed how Trump’s business interests continue to overlap with media, entertainment and technology companies while he serves as president.

Why The Filing Matters

The latest filing offers a rare public look at Trump’s income sources during his return to office. It also shows that his Hollywood ties now extend beyond older television appearances and performer pensions.

Most of the Trump Hollywood income came from disputes with major media companies, not from traditional entertainment work. However, the disclosure also shows that past appearances on television and in film still generate small payments.

For readers, the filing highlights how celebrity, politics and business remain closely connected in Trump’s financial life.

Disney Apps Add Spanish Translations for Walt Disney World and Disneyland Guests

Disney apps Spanish translations are now available for select Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort planning tools. The update helps Spanish-speaking guests plan trips, manage details, and navigate vacation options with more ease.

Starting July 1, the My Disney Experience app for Walt Disney World and the Disneyland app for Disneyland Resort now include select content translated into Spanish. The update is part of Disney’s effort to simplify vacation planning, improve booking tools, and give guests more confidence before and during their visits.

Disney Apps Spanish Translations Expand Guest Access

Guests who have Spanish set as the default language on their phones will automatically see available translated sections in Spanish. The change applies to the My Disney Experience app and the Disneyland app.

Disney said the update responds to visitor feedback. The company has continued adding digital tools designed to make trip planning easier and more convenient.

For many families, mobile apps play a major role in planning a Disney vacation. Guests use them to check plans, manage reservations, review park information, and access key trip details.

The Spanish-language update aims to help guests who prefer browsing in Spanish move through those steps with more ease.

Some App Features Remain in English

Not every feature is available in Spanish yet. Disney said Mobile Order menus and Mobile Merchandise Checkout menus are not currently translated.

That means guests using those tools may still see English-language content during parts of the ordering or checkout process. Disney has not announced a timeline for when those features may receive Spanish translations.

Visitors who want to view the app in Spanish should check their phone settings. The app language depends on the device’s default language setting.

If a phone is set to English, the app will continue to appear in English. Users must set their device language to Spanish to see the translated app content where available.

Recent Disney App Improvements

The Disney apps Spanish translations rollout follows other recent updates to Disney’s planning apps. Earlier this year, Disney redesigned both the Disneyland app and My Disney Experience app.

The redesign introduced more intuitive navigation and a more consistent guest experience. It also allows guests to see travel plans in one place, instead of checking only a daily view.

In recent months, Disney has also added updates for restaurant reservations, online check-in, and theme park reservations. Guests can now complete more planning steps directly through the apps.

These updates reflect a broader push to reduce friction during vacation planning. They also help guests access important trip tools before arriving at the parks.

More Flexibility for Disneyland Guests

Disney has also made changes beyond its digital platforms. Earlier this month, Disneyland Resort guests with Park Hopper tickets and Magic Key passes gained more flexibility.

Those guests no longer need to wait until 11 a.m. Pacific Time to switch parks. Park hopping remains subject to availability.

The change gives eligible guests more freedom when planning their day between Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park.

Together, these updates show Disney’s continued focus on convenience, flexibility, and guest access. For Spanish-speaking families, the new app translations offer another tool to plan with more confidence.

Mexico vs Ecuador World Cup Win Sends El Tri Into Round of 16

Mexico vs Ecuador World Cup action delivered a major moment for El Tri on Tuesday night. Mexico defeated Ecuador 2-0 at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, moving into the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The win kept Mexico perfect in the tournament. It also gave the co-hosts another clean sheet in front of a loud home crowd.

Mexico vs Ecuador World Cup Match Turns Early

Mexico took control in the first half with two goals. Julián Quiñones opened the scoring in the 22nd minute after a quick attacking move.

Raúl Jiménez doubled the lead in the 31st minute. The veteran forward finished after Ecuador failed to clear the ball near the penalty area.

Those two moments shaped the match. Ecuador pushed for a response, but Mexico stayed organized and protected the lead.

El Tri Defense Stays Strong

Mexico’s defense again played a central role. Ecuador created pressure at times, including set pieces and chances from distance.

Still, Mexico handled the danger with discipline. The back line limited Ecuador’s best looks and kept the match under control late.

The result continued Mexico’s strong start to the tournament. El Tri has now opened the World Cup with four straight wins and four clean sheets.

Ecuador Falls Short In Knockout Test

Ecuador entered the match with confidence after advancing from a difficult group. The team had already shown it could compete with top opponents.

However, Mexico’s early goals changed the rhythm. Ecuador had to chase the match for more than an hour.

The night grew harder for Ecuador after Piero Hincapié received a late red card. That left Ecuador with 10 players and little time to recover.

What Comes Next For Mexico

Mexico will now wait for its Round of 16 opponent. The winner of England vs. DR Congo will face El Tri next.

That match is expected to bring even more pressure. Mexico has not reached the World Cup quarterfinals since 1986, the last time the country hosted the tournament.

This team now has a chance to change that story. With goals from Quiñones and Jiménez, plus another shutout, Mexico gave its fans a reason to believe.

For supporters following El Tri, the takeaway is clear. Mexico is still alive, still unbeaten, and now one win away from a historic breakthrough.

Houston Restaurant Closures Hit Local Favorites

Houston restaurant closures continued in June as several local favorites announced permanent or temporary shutdowns. The latest round affected bars, breweries and restaurants across Montrose, Memorial City, Cypress, Garden Oaks, Washington Avenue and Rice Village.

Houston Restaurant Closures Reflect Industry Pressure

The June closures show how rising food costs, labor challenges and lease issues continue to affect Houston’s dining scene. The impact is not limited to small independent spots.

Several closures involved local restaurant groups or operators with multiple concepts. That includes brands that had expanded across the area in recent years.

For diners, the changes mean saying goodbye to neighborhood staples and adjusting plans for familiar brunch, bar and dinner destinations. For owners, the decisions often reflect a mix of business costs, lease terms and shifting priorities.

Roswell’s Saloon and State Fare Close Locations

Roswell’s Saloon closed in Montrose on June 28 after nearly three years in business. The Westheimer Road bar was known for its space-themed design, neon atmosphere and playful cocktails.

The owner is expected to focus on other restaurant businesses rather than renew the lease. Roswell’s had built a following as a neighborhood bar with a distinctive look and late-night energy.

State Fare Kitchen & Bar also closed its Memorial City flagship after 10 years. The restaurant was known for brunch, comfort food and cocktails.

The closure leaves State Fare with one remaining location in The Woodlands. Ownership has also teased a reworked version of the concept, including a larger footprint, new menu and more social dining features.

Duck N Bao, Pho Fix and Platypus Brewing Also Close

Duck N Bao closed its Cypress location with little notice. The Beijing duck and dumpling restaurant had grown from Cypress into other parts of the Houston area.

Its Memorial and Rice Village locations remain open. The owners also operate other Asian dining concepts in the region.

Pho Fix closed its Garden Oaks restaurant on June 8 after about three years. The restaurant had served pho, banh mi and other Vietnamese dishes.

Its closing announcement thanked customers and described the restaurant as a place where families, friends and neighbors gathered. Pho Fix first opened downtown before adding the Garden Oaks location in 2023.

Platypus Brewing also poured its final beers on Washington Avenue on May 31. The Australian-inspired brewery, bar and restaurant operated for nearly a decade.

Owners said the lease was ending and suggested another project may be ahead.

More Closures Are Coming in July

Two more notable restaurants are expected to close in July. Istanbul Grill in Rice Village will close July 19 after nearly 30 years in business.

The Turkish restaurant has long served diners in one of Houston’s busiest restaurant districts. Its owners cited lease circumstances as the reason for the closure.

Killen’s in the Heights will also serve its final meal on July 19. The Southern comfort food restaurant opened in 2020 and later earned Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition.

The farewell menu is expected to include customer favorites such as chicken-fried steak, oxtails, chicken pot pie, barbecue and German chocolate cake.

Hidden Omakase Temporarily Relocates

Not every closure is permanent. Hidden Omakase has temporarily closed after a car crashed into its dining room.

The Michelin-recommended restaurant is continuing service through a summer residency at Bar Moon in Uptown. The team is offering limited seatings Tuesday through Saturday.

The June changes show how quickly Houston’s food scene can shift. Diners still have time to visit some closing restaurants before their final service, while others have already served their last meal.

For Houston food lovers, the month is a reminder to support neighborhood restaurants, bars and breweries while they are still open.

1 detained after 20 people rescued from balconies during SW Houston apartment fire

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HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — The Houston Fire Department has confirmed that at least 20 people were rescued from a two-alarm apartment fire early Tuesday morning, and one person was detained as part of the investigation.

A Westridge Street apartment fire near Main Street, just west of NRG Stadium, sent Houston firefighters to the scene before 6 a.m. The fire spread across three buildings and impacted 16 apartment units, according to the Houston Fire Department.

Westridge Street Apartment Fire Spreads to Three Buildings

The fire broke out at an apartment complex near Westridge Street and Main Street. Crews worked to extinguish the flames as smoke continued to rise from a third-floor unit.

SkyEye13 flew over the scene after firefighters brought the fire under control. Smoke was still visible from part of the complex.

HFD said the fire expanded to three buildings. In total, 16 units were impacted.

Residents Rescued From Balconies

Houston firefighters rescued several people from their balconies, according to a post from HFD on Facebook. One of the people rescued had disabilities.

The rescues show how quickly apartment fires can trap residents, especially in upper-floor units. Fire crews often use ladders and other equipment when stairways or hallways become unsafe.

At least one person was taken to the hospital for observation. HFD also said one firefighter received treatment at the scene.

The firefighter returned to service after being treated.

Person Detained as Arson Investigators Review Evidence

Arson investigators said one person had been detained in connection with the fire. That person was being questioned as part of the investigation.

Investigators are also reviewing photos and videos taken by residents at the scene. Images from witnesses can help investigators understand where the fire started and how it moved through the complex.

Officials have not released the detained person’s name. They have also not announced any charges.

The cause of the fire has not been confirmed.

Fire Remains Under Investigation

The fire remains under investigation by the Houston Fire Department. Officials have not released a final damage estimate.

The affected residents now face cleanup, repairs and possible displacement. Apartment fires can leave units unlivable because of smoke, water and structural damage, even when flames do not destroy every unit.

Residents who took photos or videos may be asked to share them with investigators. Officials said that evidence could help determine what happened before the fire spread.

For nearby families, the fire is also a reminder to review emergency plans. Residents should know at least two ways out of their building and report blocked exits or missing smoke alarms to property management.

HFD has not announced when the investigation will be completed.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Sony’s REON POCKET PRO Plus Brings Wearable Cooling to Summer Heat

Sony’s REON POCKET PRO Plus is bringing wearable temperature control to U.S. consumers as extreme summer heat drives interest in personal cooling devices. The compact gadget sits at the back of the neck and uses smart sensors to cool or warm the wearer.

REON POCKET PRO Plus Launches in the U.S.

Sony Electronics announced the REON POCKET PRO Plus on May 12, calling it a wearable thermo device for everyday comfort. The product is expected to be available in the U.S. during summer 2026 through Sony’s online store.

Sony lists the REON POCKET PRO Plus Sensing Kit at $259.99. The U.S. product page shows the device available for pre-order, with estimated delivery dates in late July.

The model number is RNPK-P1PT. The kit includes the wearable unit, a dedicated neckband and the REON POCKET TAG 2 sensor.

How Sony’s Wearable Cooler Works

The device rests near the upper back and neck. Instead of blowing air like a fan, it uses a plate that transfers cooling or warming directly to the body.

Sony says the device uses multiple sensors and an algorithm to adjust output. The system can estimate skin temperature, movement, humidity and surrounding temperature.

When paired with the included sensor tag, the device can detect both inside-clothing temperature and ambient conditions. That allows it to adjust cooling or heating without constant manual control.

The REON POCKET PRO Plus also includes a SMART COOL to WARM mode. That feature can switch between cooling and warming as conditions change.

Designed for Quiet, Everyday Use

Sony says the new model uses a fan-less design. That makes it quiet enough for commutes, offices, travel and other public settings.

Battery life depends on use and conditions. Sony says SMART COOL mode can run up to 15 hours. The company also notes that actual performance may vary.

The device charges to about 90% in roughly 130 minutes. A full charge takes about 200 minutes, according to Sony’s product details.

The neckband uses what Sony calls an Adaptive Hold Design. The goal is to keep the cooling plate in contact with the body while reducing small movements during walking or light activity.

A Gadget Built for Hotter Days

The REON POCKET line first launched in Japan in 2019. The Pro Plus version continues Sony’s push into personal climate technology.

The product may appeal to commuters, outdoor workers, travelers and office employees dealing with uneven air conditioning. It could also attract consumers in hot-weather markets such as Texas, where summer temperatures often shape daily routines.

Still, the device is not the same as air conditioning for an entire room. It provides localized comfort on the body. Users should also continue using basic heat-safety steps, including hydration, shade and breaks during extreme heat.

Wearable cooling remains a niche category, but Sony’s U.S. launch could bring it to a wider audience. As summers grow hotter, products like the REON POCKET PRO Plus show how consumer tech companies are rethinking personal comfort.

Medicare Will Cover Obesity Drugs for the First Time

Medicare obesity drugs coverage will begin July 1 through a new federal pilot program. The change gives some Medicare Part D beneficiaries access to select GLP-1 medications used for weight management.

Medicare Obesity Drugs Coverage Starts July 1

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services will launch the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge on July 1. The short-term program will run through Dec. 31, 2027.

For the first time, eligible Medicare patients may receive certain obesity medications for weight management. The program will offer a $50 copay for a monthly supply.

The program is separate from regular Medicare Part D coverage. That means the $50 copay will not count toward a beneficiary’s Part D out-of-pocket costs. Low-income subsidy assistance also will not apply to the bridge copay.

CMS says the program will use a central processor to handle prior authorization, claims and pharmacy payments.

Which GLP-1 Drugs Are Included

The covered medications include all formulations of Wegovy and Foundayo, along with the KwikPen version of Zepbound. Other Zepbound formulations are not included in the bridge program.

GLP-1 drugs work by helping regulate appetite and blood sugar signals. They have become widely known for treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes.

Some GLP-1 drugs are already covered by Medicare Part D when prescribed for approved conditions such as Type 2 diabetes. The new bridge program focuses on use for reducing excess body weight and maintaining weight reduction.

CMS says patients who use GLP-1 drugs for conditions already covered by Part D should continue getting them through their Part D plan.

Who May Qualify

Not every Medicare beneficiary will qualify. Patients must have Medicare Part D coverage through an eligible plan and meet clinical requirements.

A provider must submit a prior authorization request. The prescription must be used for weight management along with ongoing lifestyle changes, including nutrition and physical activity.

Patients may qualify with a body mass index, or BMI, of 35 or higher. Some patients may qualify with a BMI of 30 or higher if they also have certain health conditions, including uncontrolled high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease or heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.

Patients may also qualify with a BMI of 27 or higher if they have prediabetes, a previous heart attack, a previous stroke or symptomatic peripheral artery disease.

Prior authorization requests will not be accepted before July 1.

Why the Change Matters

The move marks a major shift in how Medicare treats obesity care. Federal law has long limited coverage for drugs used only for weight loss.

The new pilot program could reduce costs for eligible patients who might otherwise pay hundreds or more than $1,000 per month. It also gives Medicare time to gather more information about GLP-1 use, costs and health outcomes.

Doctors still urge patients to review risks and benefits before starting treatment. GLP-1 drugs can cause side effects, and older adults may need closer monitoring for nutrition, digestion and muscle loss.

For families across Texas and the country, the change could make obesity treatment more accessible. Eligible patients should speak with their doctor and check official Medicare information before July 1.

LeBron James Plans to Leave Lakers and Continue NBA Career Elsewhere

LeBron James Lakers news is leading the NBA offseason after reports said the basketball star plans to leave Los Angeles. James is expected to continue his career with another team for the 2026-27 season.

LeBron James Lakers Era Nears Its End

James has informed the Los Angeles Lakers that he does not plan to return, according to reports cited by the Associated Press and NBA.com. His agent, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, said James intends to keep playing.

The move would end an eight-season run with the Lakers. James joined the franchise in 2018 and helped lead Los Angeles to the 2020 NBA championship.

The Lakers thanked James for his time with the team in a statement, according to AP. His departure would mark one of the biggest changes in the NBA this offseason.

James is expected to enter free agency as one of the league’s most watched names. Teams may begin talks when NBA free agency opens Tuesday evening.

A Record 24th NBA Season

James is already the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. If he plays next season, he would become the first player in league history to appear in a 24th NBA season.

He turns 42 in December, but he has remained productive late in his career. His longevity has made him one of the most durable stars in professional sports.

James has won four NBA championships, four Most Valuable Player awards and four NBA Finals MVP awards. He has also earned 22 All-Star selections.

His time in Los Angeles also included a family milestone. James played alongside his son, Bronny James, with the Lakers, making them the first father-son duo to appear together in an NBA game.

Possible Landing Spots Draw Attention

James has not announced his next team. Still, speculation has already focused on several possible destinations.

The Golden State Warriors have been mentioned in multiple reports as a team to watch. A move there would pair James with Stephen Curry, one of his longtime Finals rivals.

A return to the Cleveland Cavaliers could also draw attention. James began his career in Cleveland and led the Cavaliers to their first NBA championship in 2016.

Any deal would depend on salary cap rules, roster needs and James’ own priorities. His next choice could affect the balance of power across the league.

What It Means for the Lakers

The Lakers now face a major roster shift. The franchise must plan for life without one of the most recognizable players in basketball history.

James’ exit could affect the team’s free agency plans, ticket demand and national TV profile. It also places more attention on the Lakers’ next steps around their remaining roster.

For the NBA, the news adds major drama to free agency. James has shaped the league for more than two decades, from Cleveland to Miami to Los Angeles.

His next move will be watched far beyond basketball fans. For many households, including Latino sports fans across the world, James remains one of the most familiar athletes in American sports.

As free agency begins, the main question is no longer whether James will keep playing. The question is where the next chapter of his historic career will begin.

Major Federal Student Loan Changes Take Effect July 1

Major federal student loan changes take effect July 1, bringing new repayment options and new borrowing limits for millions of borrowers. The changes are part of a Trump administration overhaul of the federal student loan system.

Federal Student Loan Changes Start July 1

The U.S. Department of Education says the new rules will simplify repayment and limit excessive borrowing. However, some borrowers could see higher monthly payments.

Two new repayment options begin July 1. One is the Repayment Assistance Plan, known as RAP. The other is a new Tiered Standard Plan.

Under RAP, monthly payments are based on income and family size. The Department of Education says the plan is designed to help borrowers avoid growing balances when they make full, on-time payments.

The Tiered Standard Plan sets fixed repayment terms of 10, 15, 20 or 25 years. The term depends on a borrower’s total loan balance.

SAVE Borrowers Must Choose a New Plan

Borrowers enrolled in the SAVE Plan will receive notices from their loan servicers starting July 1. The Department of Education says they will have at least 90 days to choose a new repayment plan.

Borrowers who do not act by their servicer’s deadline may be moved into the Standard Repayment Plan or the new Tiered Standard Plan. Those plans may cost more per month than income-driven options.

The SAVE Plan was created under the Biden administration. It later faced legal challenges and is now being phased out.

Borrowers do not need to act before July 1. However, they should watch for notices from their loan servicer and review repayment options carefully.

Graduate and Parent Borrowing Rules Change

The July 1 changes also affect future borrowing. The Department of Education says the Grad PLUS loan program will be eliminated for new graduate and professional student borrowers.

Some current Grad PLUS borrowers may keep limited access while finishing their programs. New borrowers will face new annual and lifetime loan limits.

Parent PLUS loans will also face new caps. The changes could affect families who use federal loans to help pay for a child’s college costs.

Undergraduate federal loan limits are expected to remain mostly unchanged. Still, schools may have more authority to limit borrowing by program in some cases.

What Borrowers Should Do Now

Borrowers should log in to StudentAid.gov and confirm their loan servicer information. They should also make sure their email and mailing address are current.

SAVE borrowers should compare repayment plans before choosing a new option. The lowest monthly payment may not always be the best long-term choice.

Students planning for graduate or professional school should check with their school’s financial aid office. The new loan limits may change how much federal aid is available.

Parents considering PLUS loans should also review the new caps before borrowing.

The changes arrive as many families continue to manage rising college costs. For borrowers in Texas and across the country, the most important step is to stay informed and respond quickly when loan servicers send official notices.