3/3/2024: Operation Lone Star; 97 Books; Artemis
First, a report on barricades and battles on the Texas border. Then, a look at why Beaufort banned five books from school libraries. And, a report on the challenges NASA faces going back to the moon.
Banned Books
Key parts of Arkansas law allowing criminal charges vs. librarians struck down
A federal judge struck down key parts of an Arkansas law that would have allowed criminal charges against librarians and booksellers for providing "harmful" materials to minors.
Hundreds of books pulled from Florida school libraries
A 35-page list outlines the hundreds of books removed from library shelves in Florida's 73 school districts.
Kenneth C. Davis on the power of reading
Kenneth C. Davis, author of "The World in Books," joins "CBS Mornings" to talk about the power of reading and the need to fight for the right to access books in an era of increasing bans across the U.S.
Major publishers sue Florida over book ban law in schools
Classics that have been pulled as a result of the law include Maya Angelou's "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" and Ernest Hemingway's "For Whom the Bell Tolls."
Major publishers sue Florida over book-banning law
Several top-selling authors and major publishing companies are now suing the state of Florida over a controversial law that led to the banning of hundreds of books. Cristian Benavides has details.
San Francisco bookstore pushes back on book bans
A wave of anti-LGBTQ legislation and book bannings in states nationwide has one San Francisco bookstore fighting back, shipping many of those very same titles to the places that prohibit them, for free. Itay Hod has the story.
San Francisco bookstore fights censorship of LGBT books
One San Francisco bookstore is fighting book bans by shipping LGBT+ books to directly the Deep South for free.
Gay teacher responds to LGBTQ backlash
The American Library Association found that 4,240 books were targets of censorship efforts in 2023, with about half of those books written by or including people of color and those from LGBTQ communities. CBS News executive director of elections and surveys Anthony Salvanto spoke with Anthony Nicodemo, a gay teacher and basketball coach in Westchester County, New York, about his message to proponents of book bans.
Florida school district bans book about book banning. "Irony is dead," says author.
Author Alan Gratz says his book might get a sales uptick from the notoriety, but most banned books and their authors suffer negative outcomes.
Full list of 97 books parents tried to ban from Beaufort, SC school library shelves
Students temporarily lost access to nearly 100 books in Beaufort County, South Carolina after a book banning push. Here's the full list of books.
Beaufort, SC, schools return dozens of books to shelves after ban fight
A South Carolina school district's superintendent pulled 97 books from schools after a ban push from a few parents and residents. Almost all of the books have since been returned to school libraries.
South Carolina school district reviews, returns books after ban attempt
The Beaufort County school district in South Carolina was blindsided by efforts to ban 97 books from schools. After a lengthy review, most of the books were cleared for return.
Georgia lawmakers eye allowing criminal charges against school librarians
The proposal involves sexual content of books and is part of a broader drive by Republicans in many states to root out what they see as inappropriate material from schools and libraries.
Florida school district's book ban extends to dictionaries
The dictionaries and encyclopedias are being reviewed based on state legislation that says schools may not have books that depict or describe "sexual conduct" or are "inappropriate."
Judge blocks Arkansas law that allows librarians to face criminal charges
Under the law, librarians or booksellers that "knowingly" loan or sell books deemed "obscene" by the state can be charged with a felony.
School district restricts Bible after complaint calls it "sex-ridden"
A copy of the complaint to a Utah school district shows that a parent noted the Bible contains instances of incest, prostitution and rape.
Rise in attempted book bans in 2022
The American Library Association is raising awareness about what it calls "organized censorship" campaigns against certain types of books. Last year marked a record-breaking year for book challenges at libraries, the organization said.
"Gender Queer" tops annual list of banned, challenged books
Other books facing challenges and bans include George M. Johnson's "All Boys Aren't Blue," Mike Curato's "Flamer" and Juno Dawson's "This Book Is Gay," among others.
The fight over banning books
Between 2020 and 2022, the number of book titles that have been banned in U.S. libraries and schools spiked more than 1,100%, to more than 2,500, while activists in 37 states have challenged school districts for offering non-fiction and fiction books that discuss race and racism, slavery, sex and gender identity. Correspondent Martha Teichner talks with opposing forces on the reading battlefield today, from the founders of the activist group Moms for Liberty, to library officials, a teacher removed from her classroom for giving her students access to banned books, and cartoonist Art Spiegelman, whose Holocaust-themed graphic novel "Maus" has been targeted by book banners.
War of words: The fight over banning books
Between 2020 and 2022, book titles banned in libraries and schools (including books on race, slavery, sex and gender identity) rose more than 1,100%. "Sunday Morning" talks with advocates for removing books from shelves, and those fighting to preserve access.
Live
Iran war keeps Strait of Hormuz paralyzed and gas prices on the rise
Iran war could escalate further as Trump threatens to hit key oil infrastructure if Tehran doesn't drop its chokehold on the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump urges other nations to help open Strait of Hormuz
In remarks ahead of a meeting with the Kennedy Center board of trustees, Mr. Trump provided an update on the ongoing conflict with Iran.
Who won Oscars for 2026? See the full winners list here
"One Battle After Another" took home several big awards, including Best Picture, Best Director and the newly created Best Casting.
White House chief of staff Susie Wiles diagnosed with breast cancer
President Trump said White House chief of staff Susie Wiles will "continue doing the job she loves" even while undergoing treatment for early stage breast cancer.
Travelers face long lines at airports after TSA workers miss first full paycheck
Travelers continue to face long lines at airports across the U.S. due to the partial government shutdown affecting TSA agents.
Border Patrol's Gregory Bovino to retire from federal service, sources say
Border Patrol official Gregory Bovino was pulled away from a high-profile role leading immigration raids in major U.S. cities, including Minneapolis, earlier this year.
The Iran war is making it harder for Fed officials to cut interest rates
Some economists think the Fed, facing inflationary pressures from rising energy prices, may not cut interest rates at all this year.
Suspect who played key role in "El Mencho" raid is arrested
The suspect was responsible for transporting Oseguera's romantic partner to a luxurious cabin, the defense ministry said .
Weather threats bring blizzard conditions, early heat wave to parts of U.S.
A severe weather front has dumped heavy snow on the Upper Midwest, caused thunderstorms in the South and threatens Mid-Atlantic states with rain and possible tornadoes.
U.S.
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Border Patrol's Gregory Bovino to retire from federal service, sources say
Border Patrol official Gregory Bovino was pulled away from a high-profile role leading immigration raids in major U.S. cities, including Minneapolis, earlier this year.
Hyundai stops sales of some 2026 models after a child's death
Hyundai's announcement came after a child died in an incident involving a Palisade vehicle, which the car maker said is still under investigation.
Strangers help 78-year-old DoorDash driver after viral doorbell video
A Ring camera video that showed a 78-year-old DoorDash driver making a delivery led to strangers donating nearly $1 million to him and his wife.
Trump urges other nations to help open Strait of Hormuz
In remarks ahead of a meeting with the Kennedy Center board of trustees, Mr. Trump provided an update on the ongoing conflict with Iran.
With gas prices still rising, experts recommend 3 ways to save fuel
Small adjustments, like maintaining a steady speed while driving, can help maximize fuel efficiency, experts say.
MoneyWatch
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Hyundai stops sales of some 2026 models after a child's death
Hyundai's announcement came after a child died in an incident involving a Palisade vehicle, which the car maker said is still under investigation.
With gas prices still rising, experts recommend 3 ways to save fuel
Small adjustments, like maintaining a steady speed while driving, can help maximize fuel efficiency, experts say.
Gas prices edge higher with Brent crude remaining above $100 per barrel
Gas prices have jumped almost 79 cents per gallon from a month ago, raising fresh inflation concerns.
The Iran war is making it harder for Fed officials to cut interest rates
Some economists think the Fed, facing inflationary pressures from rising energy prices, may not cut interest rates at all this year.
How would escorting oil tankers through Strait of Hormuz work?
With oil markets paralyzed by the U.S.-Iran war, the Trump administration says it could escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz — a massive undertaking that experts say could already be in the preparatory stages.
Politics
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Border Patrol's Gregory Bovino to retire from federal service, sources say
Border Patrol official Gregory Bovino was pulled away from a high-profile role leading immigration raids in major U.S. cities, including Minneapolis, earlier this year.
White House chief of staff Susie Wiles diagnosed with breast cancer
President Trump said White House chief of staff Susie Wiles will "continue doing the job she loves" even while undergoing treatment for early stage breast cancer.
Trump urges other nations to help open Strait of Hormuz
In remarks ahead of a meeting with the Kennedy Center board of trustees, Mr. Trump provided an update on the ongoing conflict with Iran.
Crenshaw on primary loss: "Are you going to believe everything you read online?"
Rep. Dan Crenshaw, whose term as representative of Texas' 2nd congressional district is set to end following his loss in the Republican primary earlier this month, appeared on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on Sunday.
Full transcript of "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," March 15, 2026
On this "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" broadcast, Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi and Rep. Dan Crenshaw join Margaret Brennan.
HealthWatch
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Changes in organ donor status can fall through cracks in the system
Patchwork state policies and limited federal oversight have led to a fragmented system for tracking organ donor status.
A dad's colon cancer spread to lungs. He says what happened next was a miracle.
Spencer Laird was diagnosed with colon cancer at 26. At 30, he was told it had returned and spread to his lungs, with one tumor the size of a golf ball.
Dr. Oz pledges to tackle hospice fraud: "Do not steal from the American people"
The Trump administration's Medicare boss reacts to CBS News investigation into California's hospice fraud problems.
Millions of Americans skip meals, stretch medication to afford health care
Even people with six-figure incomes are making financial sacrifices to pay for medical care, a new study finds.
Disease once linked to mining hits workers in countertops industry
Crystalline silica, which is released into the air when workers cut and polish engineered stone for kitchen countertops, can scar human lungs beyond repair.
World
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2 dead, including girl, after boats carrying students capsize off Japan
Coast guard rescuers pulled all 21 people out of the water, but a 17-year-old student and the captain of one of the boats were later pronounced dead.
Trump urges other nations to help open Strait of Hormuz
In remarks ahead of a meeting with the Kennedy Center board of trustees, Mr. Trump provided an update on the ongoing conflict with Iran.
Suspect who played key role in "El Mencho" raid is arrested
The suspect was responsible for transporting Oseguera's romantic partner to a luxurious cabin, the defense ministry said.
Ecuador launches U.S.-backed anti-drug operations: "We're at war"
The operation marks the latest joint show of force against drug cartels in the South American country.
Live
Iran war keeps Strait of Hormuz paralyzed and gas prices on the rise
Iran war could escalate further as Trump threatens to hit key oil infrastructure if Tehran doesn't drop its chokehold on the Strait of Hormuz.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
Did "Sinners" get snubbed at the Oscars?
The 2026 Academy Awards were held in Los Angeles on Sunday. Entertainment Tonight host Kevin Frazier breaks down the winners and the biggest upsets.
Oscars 2026 best dressed
CBS News contributor Lauren Sherman breaks down some of the best looks from the 2026 Oscars, where looks from Chanel and Dior dominated the red carpet.
Lizzo announces children's book
Grammy award-winner Lizzo exclusively announced on "CBS Mornings" her latest project, a children's book called "Little Lizzo Meets Sasha B. Flute." She spoke with Gayle King about her inspiration for the book and message for young readers.
Breaking down top moments from the Oscars
Clayton Davis, the senior awards editor for Variety, joins "CBS Mornings" to discuss the big moments, winners and surprises at the Oscars.
Big winners from the Oscars
"One Battle After Another" took home six awards at the Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director, while Michael B. Jordan won Best Actor for his performance in "Sinners." Meanwhile, actor Billy Crystal led the in memoriam segment with an emotional tribute to Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele, who were killed last year. Nischelle Turner reports on Hollywood's biggest night.
Technology
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Technology
Solar farm development faces pushback
A community in Alabama is pushing back against a solar farm that would power an artificial intelligence data center in the state. CBS News reporter Kati Weis has more.
Jury deliberates in social media trial
Jury deliberations are underway in a landmark social media trial about addiction claims. CBS News correspondent Carter Evans has the details.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
3 teens took part in a weeklong experiment to curb screen time. It worked.
For one week, three New Jersey high schoolers agreed not to take their phones to bed, and to try different tools to reduce screen time.
How Pentagon-Anthropic AI dispute escalated
The Trump administration has blacklisted AI giant Anthropic, labeling it a supply chain risk. The company has sued in response. New York Times tech reporter Sheera Frenkel joins CBS News to break down the feud.
Science
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Discovery of 1949 whale recording could unlock mysteries of ocean
The song is that of a humpback whale and was recorded by scientists in March 1949 in Bermuda, researchers said.
Sea levels higher than thought due to "methodological blind spot," study says
A new study in the journal Nature says most sea level rise research may have underestimated coastal water heights by an average of 1 foot.
NASA announces major overhaul of Artemis moon program "to take down risk"
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman announced significant changes to the agency's Artemis program, which aims to land on the moon in 2028.
What scientists will be looking for when government UFO files are released
Documents might help scientists shed light on unexplained phenomena and government secrets, experts said.
In a first, shark seen on camera in Antarctica waters, surprising researchers
A large shark was caught on camera for the first time in Antarctica's waters, surprising researchers. "There's a general rule of thumb that you don't get sharks in Antarctica," one said.
Crime
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Crime
Closing arguments in Kouri Richins trial
Closing arguments are expected to begin on Monday in Kouri Richins' murder trial. She's accused of giving her husband a deadly dose of fentanyl four years ago before she later published a children's book about grief. The case included 13 days of testimony, but the defense did not call any witnesses. If convicted, Richins could face life in prison.
Suspect who played key role in "El Mencho" raid is arrested
The suspect was responsible for transporting Oseguera's romantic partner to a luxurious cabin, the defense ministry said.
Ecuador launches U.S.-backed anti-drug operations: "We're at war"
The operation marks the latest joint show of force against drug cartels in the South American country.
Murder-for-hire scheme uncovered in investigation of slain teacher
Jocelyn Peters, a beloved third grade teacher in St. Louis, Missouri, was shot to death in her sleep. The crime scene held an unusual clue – something one detective says he had never seen before.
Players Championship start delayed amid manhunt for murder suspect
Suspect Christian Barrios, 32, shot two people multiple times Friday night, St. Johns County Sheriff Rob Hardwick said.
Space
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Space
Bill Nye on going from Boeing to science guy
Bill Nye the Science Guy sits down with CBS News chief Washington correspondent Major Garrett to talk about his life and career.
NASA targets April 1 for moon mission launch
NASA's huge Space Launch System rocket has been repaired and is ready for rollout back to the launch pad next week.
1,300-pound NASA satellite to crash on Earth
Nearly 14 years after it was launched in 2012, NASA says a 1,300-pound satellite is expected to come crashing back to Earth on Wednesday. Most of it will burn up as it reenters the atmosphere, but NASA warns some debris could survive reentry.
1,300-pound NASA satellite re-enters Earth's atmosphere after 14 years in space
The Van Allen probe's mission was meant to last two years, but ended up going for nearly seven.
Why NASA is overhauling Artemis program
NASA has announced a major overhaul of its Artemis moon program amid ongoing safety concerns. CBS News space consultant Bill Harwood has more details.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2026
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Evidence in the Barbara Kendhammer case
Does the evidence show a cover-up, or was Todd Kendhammer wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife?
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
More Latest CBS News Videos
Latest CBS News Videos
Trump asked about high gas prices
President Trump took questions on the Iran war at the White House Monday, at one point being asked if his advisers had told him anything about how long gas prices would be as high as they are right now.
Trump says Israel wouldn't use a nuclear weapon
President Trump spoke to reporters about the Iran war Monday, taking one question related to Israel's potential use of nuclear weapons if the war escalates. Mr. Trump said, "Israel wouldn't do that."
Trump speaks on Iran, Kennedy Center
President Trump delivered remarks ahead of a Kennedy Center board meeting, where he provided an update on the war with Iran and discussed his plans for the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Trump says Susie Wiles has breast cancer
President Trump announced Monday on social media that his chief of staff, Susie Wiles, was diagnosed with early stage breast cancer. Mr. Trump also said Wiles would continue to work full time. CBS News' Weijia Jiang has more.
H.R. McMaster on Middle East deployment
Retired Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster, former national security adviser in the first Trump administration, and a CBS News contributor, weighs in on the Pentagon's deployment of additional service members to the Middle East.