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House Republicans Advance Plan to Fund ICE and CBP

Indira Zaldivar
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House Republicans Advance Plan to Fund ICE and CBP

House Republicans narrowly approved a budget blueprint to fund key immigration enforcement agencies, marking a critical step toward reopening the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) after a historic shutdown.

Late-Night Vote After Hours of Negotiation

The measure passed 215-211-1 following more than five hours of deliberation, as Republican leaders worked to secure support from holdouts. Several GOP lawmakers ultimately switched their votes to “yes,” allowing the resolution to move forward.

Speaker Mike Johnson and party leadership framed the vote as essential to restoring funding for federal agencies amid ongoing political tensions.

What the Plan Includes

The approved resolution sets the stage for drafting legislation that would allocate billions of dollars to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) through the remainder of President Donald Trump’s term.

Republicans are using the budget reconciliation process, which allows them to bypass Democratic opposition in the Senate and pass funding with a simple majority.

Political Divide Over Reforms

Democrats remain firmly opposed, arguing that funding should be tied to reforms in enforcement practices. Their stance follows a fatal shooting involving federal agents earlier this year, which intensified scrutiny of ICE operations.

This divide has stalled broader negotiations and prolonged the DHS shutdown, which began in mid-February and is now the longest in U.S. history.

Urgency Builds Amid National Security Concerns

Recent violence at a high-profile event in Washington has renewed urgency around the funding fight. The White House has labeled the ongoing shutdown a “national emergency,” increasing pressure on lawmakers to reach a resolution.

What’s Next?

While the House has advanced its proposal, it remains unclear when leaders will bring a Senate-approved funding bill to the floor. Negotiations are expected to continue as lawmakers face a June 1 deadline to finalize funding for immigration enforcement agencies.

For more on the DHS, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Oil prices reach wartime peak

Indira Zaldivar
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Oil prices reach wartime peak

The U.S. economy began 2026 on a stronger footing, expanding at an annualized rate of 2% in the first quarter, according to new government data. The figure marks a notable rebound from the 0.5% growth recorded at the end of 2025, though it fell slightly short of economists’ forecasts.

What’s Driving the Growth?

The increase in economic output was largely fueled by:

  • Higher government spending
  • Stronger exports
  • Increased business investment

These gains helped offset weaker momentum in other areas and signaled resilience despite global uncertainty.

Consumer Spending Slows

A key concern in the report is a slowdown in consumer spending, which makes up roughly two-thirds of U.S. economic activity. Reduced household spending could signal caution among Americans as prices continue to rise.

Inflation and Rising Gas Prices

Inflation pressures intensified during the quarter. The Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index, the Federal Reserve’s preferred measure, rose to 3.5% in March, up from 2.8% the previous month.

A major factor behind the spike is the ongoing Middle East conflict, which has disrupted global energy supplies. Gas prices have surged, with the national average reaching $4.30 per gallon, the highest level in four years.

Federal Reserve Holds Rates Steady

In response to persistent inflation, the Federal Reserve has kept interest rates unchanged, maintaining a benchmark range between 3.5% and 3.75%. Policymakers appear cautious, balancing steady growth against the risk of prolonged price increases.

Outlook for the Rest of 2026

While the early-year growth is encouraging, rising costs and softer consumer demand could weigh on the economy in the months ahead. The current trajectory suggests the Fed may keep interest rates elevated longer to control inflation, especially as global tensions continue to impact energy markets.

The U.S. economy is growing steadily, but inflation and cautious consumers remain key challenges moving forward.

For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Houston woman on her fight to get her birth certificate: ‘I’m a person’

ABC13 Houston
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Houston woman on her fight to get her birth certificate: ‘I’m a person’

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Imagine going through life with no record of your birth. No document proving where you came from or that you exist. That’s the reality for one Houston woman, Barbara Brown.

As lawmakers push measures like the SAVE America Act, which requires proof of citizenship to vote, that missing piece of paper could determine whether she and others in her position have a voice at the ballot box.

On Brown’s kitchen table, she has a stack of documents marking different parts of her life.

“My shot record, my immunization, my marriage license,” Brown said.

But one crucial moment is missing: the beginning.

“I know I was born and I’m here. I’m a person,” Brown said. “I just feel less than, to be honest with you.”

Brown was born in the 1950s to a midwife in East Texas.

“Back in the woods,” Brown said. “I was born there. These were grandmothers, aunties. No schooling. They just knew that they could do, you know, birth these babies. They didn’t know how to fill out any forms, and nobody cared enough.”

It was the Jim Crow era, a period when many Black Americans were denied equal access to hospitals.

Systemic discrimination and segregation often meant official records were incomplete or never created at all.

“A lot of records that may not have been kept because of the circumstance of so many of the black and brown babies having to be delivered by midwives in someone’s home,” University of Houston History Department Professor Linda Reed said.

Reed said the midwife was responsible for getting that birth recorded.

“Anything could happen between the birth of the baby and getting that record recorded,” Reed said.

For Brown, that missing record is now catching up with her.

She’s trying to get a passport while also racing to renew her driver’s license.

Brown described being in a cycle of paperwork, rejection, and frustration.

“I give them what I have,” Brown said. “And they said, ‘Nope, not good enough.'”

Now, she waits to hear back after sending in more paperwork.

She’s also preparing to apply for a delayed birth certificate, which is a process hundreds of other Texans go through each year.

According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, more than 780 people applied last year, and already more than 160 this year.

The state agency said some are even forced to go to court because they don’t have enough documentation to get their delayed birth certificate.

Without that, people like Brown could face new barriers under proposals like the SAVE America Act.

The bill passed the U.S. House of Representatives and is currently in the Senate.

“They are American citizens, but this is a big obstacle,” Reed said. “It’s simply because of the circumstances under which they were born.”

The cost of trying to get those documents is adding up for Brown.

“Everything that I’m doing is costing me money,” Brown said.

But through it all, her faith keeps her centered.

“My prayers work,” Brown said. “That’s the only thing that keeps me grounded.”

She’s holding onto hope that one day soon, she’ll finally have what’s been missing all along.

“It’s going to have more meaning to me,” Brown said. “It’ll say delayed, but it’s okay, it’s going to show me.”

Nearly a month after speaking with Brown, she updated ABC13 that the passport office confirmed her application was approved. She said she expects to get her passport by next week. Her next goal is to apply for her delayed birth certificate.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Worker killed, buried under 3 feet of asphalt at South Houston facility, HCFMO says

ABC13 Houston
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Worker killed, buried under 3 feet of asphalt at South Houston facility, HCFMO says

SOUTH HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — A man is dead following an asphalt spill at a South Houston facility, according to the City of South Houston and the Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office.

A large amount of liquid asphalt appeared to be spilled on the ground around a large tank at the Martin Asphalt facility, SkyEye13 images showed.

The HCFMO initially said it was responding to the incident in the 300 block of Christy Place on Wednesday afternoon.

According to officials, there was 50,000 gallons of asphalt and the victim was buried under 3 feet of asphalt.

Martin Midstream Partners LP CFO Sharon Taylor said the victim’s body has been recovered, but the cause of the incident has not been determined.

Officials said that the man who died was working at the time. At this time, officials didn’t say whether they were a Martin Asphalt employee or otherwise.

As of Wednesday night, HCFMO officials said that recovery operations are complete, and the medical examiner’s office is at the scene.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Stalled front brings the potential for stormy weather, heavy rains Thursday and Friday

ABC13 Houston
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Stalled front brings the potential for stormy weather, heavy rains Thursday and Friday

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — A slow-moving cold front will increase the chances for showers and storms on Thursday. The front then stalls Friday. Pair that with another system coming in from the west, widespread heavy rains that could lead to street flooding are a concern for the first day of May.

While a stray shower or storm cant be ruled out Thursday morning, generally the forecast remains mostly dry and cloudy. Scattered showers and a few storms return Thursday afternoon as temperatures warm in the 70s to low 80s.

Is severe weather possible Thursday or Friday?

More so Friday over Thursday, but with a front overhead we cant rule out a stray strong storm that could produce heavy rainfall, gusty winds and small hail. There’s also a small chance for a brief tornado Friday depending on the strength and location of the front. Friday’s main concern though will be the chance for street flooding which is why Friday has an ABC13 Weather Watch.

Tell me more about the aBC13 Weather Watch for Friday.

While there’s the chance for a strong to severe storm Friday, there’s a greater risk for street and urban flooding given how heavy rainfall could be. Multiple rounds of showers and storms with rainfall rates of 1 to 2 inches an hour could eventually build up during the day, leading to street flooding and urban flooding of low-lying areas and areas with poor drainage. The Weather Prediction center also highlights most of Southeast Texas with a slight risk for flooding Friday, There is also a small chance for flash flooding in regions that pick up the heaviest rains. So expected a cool, cloudy and rainy day Friday for the first day of May.

So where does that leave us for weather this weekend?

With the front clearing the coast Friday night or Saturday morning, any rain lingering behind the front should clear out pretty quickly after sunrise Saturday. Cooler air flowing in on a north breeze will bring a morning low in the 50s, and whether or not it warms above 70 Saturday afternoon depends on how quickly the clouds clear out. Sunday looks spectacular with sunshine warm temps from the mid 50s into the upper 70s!

https://abc13.com/post/houston-weather-forecast-today-near-me-texas-rain-storm-predictions/39346/

13 ALERT RADAR MAPS:
Southeast Texas
Houston
Harris County
Galveston County
Montgomery/Walker/San Jacinto/Polk/Grimes Counties
Fort Bend/Wharton/Colorado Counties
Brazoria/Matagorda Counties

Have weather tips, videos, and photos?

Send it to ABC13 using the form below. If you have a video or photo to send, terms of use apply. If you don’t, just hit ‘skip upload’ and send the details.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

For more Houston headlines, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine!

Top 5 Native Plants & Bushes for Houston in April

Indira Zaldivar
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Top 5 Native Plants & Bushes for Houston in April

Spring in Houston is prime planting season. These native picks thrive in local heat, humidity, and unpredictable rain—while supporting pollinators.

1. Texas Lantana

Texas Lantana
Bright orange and yellow blooms attract butterflies and bees. Drought-tolerant and perfect for full sun.

2. American Beautyberry

American Beautyberry
A standout shrub with vibrant purple berries in fall. Great for shady areas and supports local wildlife.

3. Turk’s Cap

Turk’s Cap
Thrives in Houston’s heat and partial shade. Its red flowers are a favorite for hummingbirds.

4. Gulf Muhly

Gulf Muhly
An ornamental grass with soft pink plumes. Low-maintenance and ideal for adding texture to landscapes.

5. Texas Sage

Texas Sage
Also called “cenizo,” this hardy shrub produces purple blooms after rain and handles drought with ease.

Why Native?

Native plants require less water, fewer chemicals, and are better adapted to Houston’s climate—making them a smart, sustainable choice for April planting.

For more garden and environmental tips, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

CDC Warns of Rising Measles Cases Ahead of Travel Season

Indira Zaldivar
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CDC Warns of Rising Measles Cases Ahead of Travel Season

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is warning that measles cases in the U.S. are likely to increase as spring and summer travel ramps up. So far in 2026, 1,782 cases have been reported nationwide, signaling a continued surge.

Why Cases May Rise

Health officials say increased domestic and international travel, along with large seasonal gatherings, could accelerate the spread of measles. The CDC has urged state and local agencies to quickly report infections, conduct contact tracing, and focus outreach on under-vaccinated communities.

Vaccination Remains Key

The MMR vaccine remains the most effective protection. One dose is about 93% effective, while two doses offer roughly 97% protection.

  • First dose: 12–15 months
  • Second dose: 4–6 years

For infants traveling to outbreak areas, an early dose between 6–11 months may be recommended, followed by the standard two-dose schedule.

Who Is Most at Risk?

CDC data shows about 92% of cases involve people who are unvaccinated or have unknown vaccination status. Only a small percentage of infections occur in those fully vaccinated.

Travelers are advised to monitor symptoms for up to three weeks after returning from affected areas and seek medical care if exposure is suspected.

Growing National Concern

Cases have been reported across dozens of states, raising concerns about sustained transmission. In 2025, the U.S. recorded 2,288 measles cases—the highest in more than three decades—and the first measles deaths in 10 years.

If transmission continues for 12 consecutive months, the U.S. risks losing its measles elimination status, a milestone achieved in 2000.

What to Know Before Traveling

Health officials recommend ensuring vaccinations are up to date at least two weeks before travel. With cases rising, prevention efforts remain critical to limiting further spread in the months ahead.

For more health guidelines and updates, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

SkyEye13 overhead after HCFMO reports hazmat incident at South Houston industrial facility

ABC13 Houston
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SkyEye13 overhead after HCFMO reports hazmat incident at South Houston industrial facility

SOUTH HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — A large amount of liquid asphalt appeared to be spilled on the ground around a large tank at an industrial facility in South Houston, SkyEye13 images showed.

The Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office said it was responding to an incident at the 300 block of Christy Place on Wednesday afternoon.

HCFMO officials added that the South Houston Fire Department was the lead agency responding to the incident, while the Houston Fire Department’s Hazmat and Rescue unit was also at the scene.

Officials did not immediately say if anyone was injured.

This is a developing story. Eyewitness News is continuing to gather facts.

Watch live breaking news coverage from ABC13 on our 24/7 streaming news channel.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

Florida Approves New Congressional Map Favoring GOP

Edward Saenz
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Florida Approves New Congressional Map Favoring GOP

The Florida Legislature has approved a new congressional map that could help Republicans gain up to four additional U.S. House seats after the 2026 midterm elections. The proposal now heads to Gov. Ron DeSantis, who introduced the plan earlier this week.

Political Impact and Strategy

Analysts say the new map could significantly reshape Florida’s political landscape, potentially leaving Democrats with just four congressional districts statewide. DeSantis has argued the redraw is justified by population growth and evolving legal considerations.

Supporters, including Florida GOP Chair Evan Powers, say the map reflects the state’s expansion and ensures fair representation. However, critics argue it disproportionately benefits Republicans and could influence national control of Congress.

Legal Challenges Expected

The plan is likely to face court challenges due to Florida’s “Fair Districts Amendments,” which ban maps drawn to favor a political party or incumbent. Opponents, including Democratic state Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith, argue the proposal violates the state constitution.

“This is a map designed to rig outcomes,” Smith said, linking the effort to the broader political influence of Donald Trump and the Republican Party.

National Context

The vote comes amid broader redistricting battles nationwide. On the same day, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down Louisiana’s congressional map as an unconstitutional racial gerrymander, weakening parts of the Voting Rights Act.

Meanwhile, voters in Virginia recently approved a redistricting measure that could benefit Democrats, though that outcome remains tied up in court.

What’s Next

If signed into law, Florida’s new map will likely face immediate legal scrutiny, setting up another high-stakes battle over voting rights and political power ahead of the 2026 elections. For more on attempts to change congressional maps, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.

Jailers’ body cameras were off during 2024 use-of-force on inmate, according to records

ABC13 Houston
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Jailers’ body cameras were off during 2024 use-of-force on inmate, according to records

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) — 13 Investigates reviewed disciplinary records for three Harris County detention officers who were charged in February with assaulting an inmate inside the jail and found none of those officers had their body-worn cameras turned on during the incident.

Isaac Hernandez, Isaac Serrato, and Kevin Parker Jr. were all charged with misdemeanor assault and relieved of duty.

FIRST REPORT: 3 detention officers relieved of duty after investigation found they assaulted an inmate, HCSO says

Hernandez and Serrato’s cases are still pending. Court records show Parker took a course and had his charge dismissed.

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office announced it was rolling out body cameras to all of its detention officers as a way to “increase transparency” in January 2024.

But two months after the announcement, there was an incident between those three detention officers and an inmate, with records showing none of their body-worn cameras were turned on.

Details about the March 2024 incident inside the Harris County jail are sparse. Court documents said officers struck the inmate with their hands, and one used his leg. The victim in this case is listed as being homeless, and we don’t know the extent of his injuries.

Hernandez, Serrato, and Parker were charged with misdemeanor assault nearly two years after the incident.

13 Investigates sent an open records request for any video of the incident, and we were told there wasn’t any.

We also asked for the officers’ disciplinary files, which is how we learned none of their body-worn cameras were on at the time of the incident.

The sheriff’s office said Serrato responded to an in-progress use-of-force call at the jail, according to his disciplinary file.

In a subsequent report, a letter of reprimand for Serrato shows he wrote that his body-worn camera wasn’t charged so it couldn’t document the incident. But, the letter said the sheriff’s office later learned that wasn’t true, and the body camera was charged but just wasn’t turned on.

Hernandez’s internal disciplinary file shows he wrote in his follow-up report for the 2024 incident that his body-worn camera didn’t record because it was not charged. The sheriff’s office confirmed what Hernandez told them was true.

Parker told HSCO that his camera wasn’t on because the automatic sensor didn’t activate, according to internal records. He was told to “manually activate his (body-worn camera) to ensure proper recording.”

Both Parker and Hernandez received counseling that recommended they review HCSO policies, according to their disciplinary files. Serrato was given a letter of reprimand, but was not disciplined.

One month after the write-up, HCSO internal records show Serrato was involved in another use-of-force incident.

Following that incident, Serrato received another letter of reprimand after he wrote in a report that his body-worn camera was on, but it was later determined that it wasn’t. Records show Serrato was not disciplined in that case either.

Parker was also involved in a separate use-of-force incident in 2024, according to his records. A disciplinary letter in Parker’s file said he was captured on video with another detention officer “ramming” a handcuffed inmate’s head into an elevator wall and that he didn’t take the inmate to the clinic after.

The letter also said Parker didn’t report the use of force. The case was sent to the Harris County District Attorney’s Office. Court records show a grand jury returned a no-bill in that case, meaning charges weren’t filed.

The misdemeanor assault charge that was filed against Parker this year was dismissed after he took a course, according to court documents.

13 Investigates asked the Harris County District Attorney’s Office if the same plea agreement was presented to the other two officers in the 2024 incident.

The DA’s Office told us, per their policy, they don’t discuss potential plea offers before an outcome is reached.

The sheriff’s office told us both Serrato and Hernandez have been relieved of duty.

Serrato was recommended for termination, but that’s pending a hearing. Hernandez’s case is pending as well.

Parker, the officer whose case was dismissed, received no disciplinary action related to this incident, per the sheriff’s office.

This story comes from our news partner ABC13 Houston.

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