- Abbott orders tougher hemp enforcement
Gov. Greg Abbott directed the Texas Department of Public Safety to increase enforcement on hemp-derived products sold illegally as marijuana. The order follows reports of vape shops selling high-THC items under the guise of legal hemp, and Abbott said violators could face criminal penalties and license suspensions.
- Uvalde police trials delayed
Trials for former Uvalde school officers Pete Arredondo and Adrian Gonzales, charged for their failed response to the 2022 Robb Elementary shooting, were postponed this week. Gonzales’ case will move to Corpus Christi to ensure an impartial jury, while families of victims expressed frustration over the repeated delays.
- Pre-K providers push into voucher program debate
Texas child care and pre-K providers are pressing lawmakers to be included in the state’s upcoming $1 billion voucher program. Many argue they’re struggling to compete with private schools already eligible for funds, warning the policy could deepen inequities for early education.
- Austin homicide marks city’s 45th of year
Police in North Austin discovered a woman’s body in an apartment Monday, marking the city’s 45th homicide of 2025. Detectives say early evidence points to foul play, and the department has asked the public for help identifying a possible suspect seen near the scene.
- Tesla eyes new service center in New Braunfels
Tesla announced plans for a $10.4 million sales and service facility in New Braunfels, expected to open in late 2026. The project will sit along the I-35 corridor, providing easier access for Central Texas Tesla owners and adding dozens of new jobs to the area.
- Heat, drought worsen in Central Texas
Central Texas is facing worsening drought conditions after nearly a month without measurable rain, according to the National Weather Service. Austin’s reservoirs continue to drop, prompting new water conservation measures and concerns about long-term agricultural impacts.
- Whataburger brawl arrests in San Antonio
Seven people were arrested after a late-night fight at a San Antonio Whataburger erupted over a wrong order. Police say chairs and trays were thrown before officers arrived, and the chaotic scene was captured in a viral video that spread widely on social media.
