local
Texas Supreme Court rejects attempt to block beach closures for SpaceX launches
By Terri Langford and Chuck Lindell, The Texas Tribune at KXXV (ABC 25) News
· June 20, 2026
· 3 min read
Siding with SpaceX and the attorney generals office, the Texas Supreme Court on Friday ruled that environmental groups did not have a right to sue to preserve public access to a beach that has been closed during rocket launches.The unanimous ruling said a trial judge properly dismissed the lawsui...
Key takeaway SaveRGV said the closures violate the Texas Constitution, which was amended in 2009 to guarantee public access to, and use of, state beaches.
Why this matters in The Waco
The Texas Supreme Court's ruling has significant implications for Waco residents who value public access to state beaches. Although the decision specifically pertains to Boca Chica Beach, it sets a precedent for how the state's Open Beaches Act is interpreted. This could impact local efforts to balance economic development with environmental conservation and public recreation. In McLennan County, where Waco is located, residents often travel to nearby coastal areas for leisure and conservation activities. The ruling may influence how similar disputes are handled in the future, potentially affecting access to beaches and public spaces throughout Texas. As the state continues to grow and develop, Waco residents will be watching to see how this decision shapes the balance between private interests, public access, and environmental protection in their own community and beyond. The court's focus on jurisdiction rather than the constitutional merits of the case leaves open questions about the limits of beach access rights.
About this story
Original reporting by KXXV (ABC 25) News . The Waco surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KXXV (ABC 25) News . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 20, 2026 ·
Source: KXXV (ABC 25) News ·
Reading time: 3 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Siding with SpaceX and the attorney generals office, the Texas Supreme Court on Friday ruled that environmental groups did not have a right to sue to preserve public access to a beach that has been closed during rocket launches.The unanimous ruling said a trial judge properly dismissed the lawsui...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 20, 2026 by KXXV (ABC 25) News and curated for The Waco readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Terri Langford and Chuck Lindell, The Texas Tribune at KXXV (ABC 25) News. To learn more about how The Waco selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Waco, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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