Your trusted source for local Austin, TX news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Multifamily housing permits in Austin have fallen below pandemic levels, with developers receiving an average of 64.5 permits per 10,000 people from April 2024 to March 2025. This decline, attributed to high borrowing costs and flattening rents, risks reigniting rent inflation in the city. Mayor Kirk Watson plans to address this issue by proposing a resolution to discuss incentives for building affordable housing.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott faces pressure regarding legislation that could ban THC products, threatening a multibillion-dollar industry. While some lawmakers advocate for stricter regulations to protect children, Abbott receives significant pushback from constituents and veterans urging him to veto the bill. The governor has yet to reveal his decision on Senate Bill 3.
An eighth-grade student at Covington Middle School, Vadir Gonzalez-Arias, died on May 29 after a medical emergency during a field trip. Principal Cedric Maddox expressed deep sorrow and announced counseling services to support grieving students and families.
Texas hosts about 8% of international students in the U.S., ranking third behind California and New York. The Trump administration's actions, including halting student visa interviews and revoking visas for Chinese students, raise concerns about the future of these students amid political tensions. The University of Texas, with a significant international student population, faces uncertainty as federal policies shift.
Severe storms are expected to hit Central Texas late Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, with the National Weather Service issuing a warning. The region has already suffered from severe weather, resulting in one death and widespread power outages affecting over 72,000 customers. Residents are advised to remain vigilant as the forecast predicts large hail, damaging winds, and significant rainfall.
Authorities in San Antonio found no evidence to support claims that actor Jonathan Joss's murder was a hate crime, despite allegations from his husband, Tristan Kern de Gonzales. Joss was shot multiple times near his former home, and police have arrested 56-year-old Sigfredo Alvarez Ceja on murder charges. The investigation continues as Gonzales recounts a confrontation with the shooter that included homophobic slurs.
Texas lawmakers concluded their 140-day legislative session, passing significant bills on private school vouchers and school funding while failing to limit abortion pills and restrict transgender bathroom use. Governor Abbott plans to sign the approved funding for public schools, which allocates $8.5 billion. Other controversial measures include requiring the Ten Commandments in classrooms and banning THC.
The Texas Legislature passed a public school funding bill on May 30, 2025, aimed at enhancing educational resources across the state. This legislation is expected to address funding disparities and improve educational outcomes for students.
A severe hailstorm in Austin has left over 16,000 residents without power, following significant damage and at least one fatality. Emergency crews, supported by more than 200 teams from neighboring areas, are working to restore electricity after the storm caused extensive damage to power infrastructure.
Lightning strikes frequently in Austin, making Texas one of America's lightning capitals. The article details the frequency and impact of lightning during storms in the region. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about weather conditions.