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Texas Awarded 1.3 Billion for BroadbandOne-Third of What Rural Communities Anticipated

Texas will receive nearly $1.3 billion in federal broadband funding, far below the $3.3 billion initially expected, frustrating rural communities. Local leaders worry this cutback hampers efforts to improve digital access for millions of Texans, particularly in underserved areas.

Nov 24, 2025

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Apr 1, 2027

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LATESTNEWS

NEWSNov 18

Fourth Wrongful Death Suit Claims Camp Mystic Ignored Flood Risks Along Guadalupe River

A fourth wrongful death lawsuit has been filed against Camp Mystic, alleging negligence in safeguarding children from flood risks along the Guadalupe River. This suit follows the tragic July 4 incident that claimed the lives of 27 individuals, including young girls and counselors. The Peck family, representing one of the victims, seeks accountability and clarity regarding the camp's safety measures.

NEWSNov 14

Northern Lights Returned to Central Texas Sky Wednesday Night

Residents of Central Texas witnessed the northern lights on Wednesday night due to heightened solar activity. Meteorologist Harrison Tran confirmed that conditions remained favorable for aurora sightings, driven by recent coronal mass ejections. This rare event allowed Texans to see a striking red glow, typically only visible near the poles.

NEWSNov 7

Jeff Yass Funds Tuition-Free Future at University of Austin with 100 Million Gift

Billionaire Jeff Yass donated $100 million to the University of Austin, ensuring free tuition for all students indefinitely. This funding supports the university's mission to operate independently of government funding while promoting a free speech academic environment.

NEWSNov 5

Unseasonable Warmth Grips Austin Before Weekend Cold Front

Central Texans will experience summer-like temperatures, reaching nearly 90 degrees, before a cold front arrives this weekend. Forecasters predict this warmth will peak on November 7 and 8, potentially breaking daily heat records. Residents can expect near-freezing temperatures by Monday morning, marking the onset of winter.

NEWSNov 3

Parents, Teachers Rally Against Austin ISDs Plan to Close 13 Schools

Parents, students, and teachers protested outside Pease Elementary against the Austin Independent School District's plan to close 13 schools to address a $20 million budget shortfall. Many attendees expressed frustration over a lack of communication from district officials regarding the closures. The school board will vote on the plan on November 20.

NEWSOct 29

Clocks Fall Back Across Texas on November 2 as Daylight Saving Time Ends

Texans will set their clocks back one hour at 2 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 2, as Daylight Saving Time ends. The change will bring earlier sunsets, with Dallas seeing dusk at approximately 5:38 p.m. Public safety officials urge residents to check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors during this time.

NEWSOct 27

Bodies Found in Austin Waters After Overnight Flooding, Officials Say

Authorities in Austin found two bodies in waterways after intense storms caused flash flooding. Rescue teams searched for missing individuals, with one person still unaccounted for, while local residents voiced concerns over rising water levels during severe weather.

NEWSOct 24

Abbott Mobilizes State Response as Severe Storms Threaten Texas

Governor Greg Abbott mobilized emergency resources as severe storms are expected to hit Texas starting Thursday night. The National Weather Service issued multiple warnings for flash flooding and hazardous conditions, urging residents to prepare.

NEWSOct 20

Austin Crowd Join Nationwide No Kings Movement

Thousands of demonstrators rallied in downtown Austin for the second national “No Kings” event, opposing authoritarianism and the Trump administration. U.S. Rep. Greg Casar emphasized that citizens must take action to protect democracy. The peaceful event, attended by about 5,000 people, concluded with calls for civic engagement and democratic values.

NEWSOct 20

Chronicle Editorial Board Endorses Austin Tax Increase, Opposes Constitutional Amendments

The Chronicle Editorial Board endorses a tax increase in Austin to fund housing affordability, homelessness reduction, and public services. The proposed increase of $200 per year for the average homeowner faces skepticism but is deemed necessary to address pressing local issues. The Board also expresses opposition to several proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution, citing concerns over fiscal impacts and political motivations.

NEWSOct 17

Free College Application Week Helps Texas Students Save on Fees

Texas residents can apply to public colleges for free during Free Application Week from Oct. 13–19. The initiative, backed by Senate Bill 2231, aims to ease financial burdens for first-time, transfer, and returning students. Governor Greg Abbott emphasized the importance of this program in preparing students for high-demand jobs.

NEWSOct 9

Elections - The Austin Chronicle

Travis County residents can vote at any Vote Center displaying the "Vote Here/Aqui" sign during early voting from October 20 to October 29, with specific hours. The Joint General and Special Elections are scheduled for November 5, 2025. Voters are encouraged to check polling locations on the official website.

NEWSOct 8

Travis County Approves 21 Million to Expand Affordable Child Care Access

Travis County officials approved $21 million to enhance affordable child care services, impacting around 1,000 children. This funding supports child care scholarships and gap funding for families with low to moderate incomes, addressing the growing demand for accessible early learning programs.

NEWSOct 2

We Have a New Website - The Austin Chronicle

The Austin Chronicle has launched a new website, marking a significant update since its original online presence began in 1997. The site was previously hosted by Wil Gerken of DesertNet, who has supported the publication's digital journey. This redesign aims to enhance user experience and accessibility.

NEWSSep 30

Texas Bars Sale of Consumable THC Products to Under-21s at Licensed Establishments

The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission implemented emergency regulations to prohibit the sale of consumable hemp-derived THC products to individuals under 21. Effective October 1, vendors must conduct strict ID checks or risk losing their licenses. This move follows Governor Greg Abbott's executive order aimed at tightening restrictions on THC sales.

NEWSSep 30

Austin FC - The Austin Chronicle

Austin FC, the first major league soccer team in Austin, embarks on its fifth season under new coach Nico Estévez, aiming to improve after previous disappointing seasons. The team's renewed hope comes with fresh talent and strategies as they seek to turn their performance around.

NEWSSep 26

Fired Texas State Professors Case Sparks Free Speech Rally

A rally occurred outside the Hays County Courthouse, where supporters demanded the reinstatement of Texas State University Professor Tom Alter, dismissed for alleged incitement of violence after political remarks. Alter has initiated legal action against the university, claiming violations of free speech and due process.

NEWSSep 22

Lee County Sheriff Faces DWI Charge After Early Sunday Arrest

Lee County Sheriff Garrett Durrenberger was arrested early Sunday morning for driving while intoxicated following a traffic stop. He was processed at the Lee County Jail and released shortly after, with the Sheriff's Office assuring the community that law enforcement operations remain fully functional. The Texas Department of Public Safety is conducting an investigation into the incident.

NEWSSep 18

Abbott Taps Cybersecurity Veteran TJ White to Lead States New Digital Defense Agency

Governor Greg Abbott appointed former U.S. Navy Vice Adm. TJ White to lead Texas' new Cyber Command amid a surge of cyberattacks from adversaries. The organization will focus on cybersecurity threats and resilience, with White bringing nearly 40 years of military experience to the role. He is set to serve until February 2027.

NEWSSep 16

Exceptional Drought Declared for Barton Springs Aquifer, Restrictions Start Oct. 1

The Barton Springs-Edwards Aquifer Conservation District declared an "Exceptional Drought," effective October 1, 2025, affecting groundwater use for about 100,000 South Austin residents. The drought follows 39 months of dry conditions, with local officials urging residents to conserve water.

NEWSSep 11

Utah Governor Labels Charlie Kirk's Killing a 'Political Assassination' as Investigation Broadens

Conservative activist Charlie Kirk, 31, died following a shooting at Utah Valley University during an event on Wednesday. An individual initially detained as a person of interest has been released, and authorities continue to investigate the incident, which Utah Governor Spencer Cox labeled a “political assassination.”

NEWSSep 10

Austin Woman Loses 25,000 in 'Sophisticated' Phishing Scheme Blames Wells Fargo for Lack of Aid

Scammers posing as Wells Fargo officials deceived an Austin woman into withdrawing $25,000 over two days, claiming her identity was stolen. Consumer advocates warn that such schemes are increasingly sophisticated, often utilizing fake caller IDs and persuasive scripts. Victims are urged to verify communications directly with their banks to avoid falling prey to similar scams.

NEWSSep 4

Dallas Police Wrap Up Operation Justice Trail With Arrest of Repeat Offender

A four-month police operation in Dallas, dubbed Operation Justice Trail, resulted in the arrest of 349 repeat offenders and the clearing of 583 warrants. Chief Daniel Comeaux stated the operation targets habitual criminals, emphasizing its effectiveness in reducing crime. Mayor Eric Johnson backed the initiative, highlighting its data-driven approach to policing.

NEWSSep 3

Austin Skies Forecast Dry Heat Holds, But September Showers on Horizon

Austin will experience continued hot and dry weather through Friday, as reported by the National Weather Service. However, the forecast suggests that September showers may arrive soon. Residents should prepare for a significant change in weather conditions.