Governor Greg Abbott announced on an unspecified date in 2026 that President Donald J. Trump has approved federal disaster assistance for Texas. ^[1] The US State Department announced on September 4, 2026, that it has paused immigrant visa processing worldwide while consular officers receive additional training. ^[2] U.S. President Donald Trump imposed 50% tariffs on greasy wool imports and some finished wool products, affecting Canadian producers who ship raw wool south for processing. ^[3] The disaster declaration addresses severe weather and flooding that impacted communities across the state of Texas in July. ^[4] The federal assistance is designated as part of a Major Disaster Declaration. ^[5] Judge Vargas ruled that the policy was contrary to law and exceeded the Secretary of State's statutory authority. ^[6] The Associated Press reported that applicants with previously scheduled interviews have been notified their appointments are being rescheduled. ^[7] The training initiative, launched in early August at US Embassies and consulates, focuses on the public-charge provision of US immigration law. ^[8] Anna Hunter, owner of Long Way Homestead, stopped shipping to the U.S. last year after Trump cancelled the de minimis exemption for imports under US$800. ^[9] Increasing numbers of Canadian producers are shipping raw wool to China and the Czech Republic to evade U.S. tariffs and trade tensions. ^[10] Matthew Rowe, chair of the Canadian Wool Council, stated that the U.S. is now effectively closed to Canadian producers as their biggest single market. ^[11] Governor Greg Abbott stated, 'I thank President Trump for his approval of this Major Disaster Declaration.' ^[12]