Latest News in Austin, TX

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Austin Ends Police License Plate Scanner Program After Public Backlash

Austin suspends its automatic license plate reader (ALPR) program amid public backlash and privacy concerns. City Manager T.C. Broadnax withdrew a proposed extension just days before a City Council vote, responding to fears of data misuse and civil rights violations.

Austin Juneteenth festival kicks off

Austin's "Stay Black and Live" festival begins today as part of Juneteenth celebrations, featuring cookouts, dance parties, and discussions at the Carver Museum. The event honors the significance of Juneteenth, which marks the announcement of freedom to the last enslaved people in the U.S. on June 19, 1865.

Immigration Protest at Texas Capitol Ends in Chaos as Police Deploy Tear Gas

A protest against federal immigration enforcement in downtown Austin escalated into chaos Monday night, prompting police to deploy tear gas and pepper spray. The demonstration, organized by the Austin chapter of the Party for Socialism and Liberation, followed a peaceful march at the Texas Capitol and ended with multiple arrests.

Austin's Meanwhile, St. Elmo win national beer awards

Austin's Meanwhile Brewing Company and St. Elmo Brewing Company both won national beer awards, with Meanwhile taking home gold for its hazy pale ale, Take Me to the River. This recognition comes as breweries face declining sales and seek to maintain their status as community hubs. Meanwhile will host a launch party for its Darlin' Lager on Friday at 6 p.m.

Central Texas Braces for Week of Soaking Rains and Storms

Central Texas braces for a week of rain and potential thunderstorms as a stalled frontal system settles over the region. Forecasters warn of damaging winds or hail from early Monday storms, particularly in northern counties. Residents should prepare for significant rainfall totals, possibly reaching 4 to 6 inches in isolated areas.

Storm damages 70-year-old baseball fields

Volunteers are working to restore the Delwood baseball complex in Austin after storms caused significant damage, leaving only three of five fields playable. The Delwood board seeks to raise $50,000 for repairs, emphasizing the complex's importance to local youth baseball.

Amid backlash, Tesla remained resilient in Texas

Tesla registrations surged 21% in Texas during Q1 2025, despite a national decline in deliveries. The rise reflects continued loyalty in Musk's home state amid political tensions and a recent backlash against the CEO's actions.

Hazed and Confused Saharan Dust Plume Blankets Austin, Impacts Air Quality

A plume of Saharan dust has reached Central Texas, impacting air quality and visibility across Austin. Officials advise those with respiratory issues to remain indoors as the dust combines with smoke from wildfires, worsening health risks. Despite the negative effects, the dust also plays a role in soil nourishment and hurricane prevention.

Zilker Brewing celebrates 10 years

Zilker Brewing, located in Austin, Texas, reports a 5-7% increase in sales and production over the past two years, despite a general decline in the craft beer industry. The brewery's focus on high-quality products and community engagement has helped it thrive where many others have struggled.

Austin launches final year of program to combat toxic algae

Austin will launch the final year of its pilot program on Monday to combat toxic blue-green algae in Lady Bird Lake. The program, which costs $300,000 annually, aims to lower phosphorus levels that fuel algae growth, following a troubling history of toxic blooms since 2019.

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