vouchers

KUT Morning Newscast for July 16, 2025: Williamson County issues vouchers to assist with the cleanup after floods

Central Texas top stories for July 16, 2025. Williamson County officials say they have shifted to clean-up and recovery mode after deadly flooding swept through the area on July 5th.  Austin’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management is hosting an Emergency Preparedness Pop-up event today where people can learn what to do before and after a disaster. In a state where natural disasters are common, emergency alerts are meant to break through the noise but often get buried under other notifications. Rent prices in the Austin area fell 8 percent in June. The Austin area HIV Planning Council is hearing feedback tonight from people living with HIV or AIDS. 

Farmers in Texas face mounting losses as lawmakers propose relief

An $8 billion funding bill for public schools has passed the Texas House. But is it enough? Where lawmakers stand on education spending.
After a string of weather disasters, a bill could bring financial relief to impacted farmers.
A new book, “Rethinking Medications: Truth, Power, and the Drugs You Take,” examines a shift in trust over federal guidance. Author Dr. Jerry Avorn joins with more.
In the not-too-distant future, iPhones may not be made in China. Omar Gallaga has the latest on talk of a shift in production.
Also: Taco podcaster Mando Rayo shares cookbook picks that put an accent on Tex-Mex flavors.

Texas House gives initial approval to school voucher bill

For the first time ever, the Texas House votes to approve the use of taxpayer money for private school education. Blaise Gainey of The Texas Newsroom shares what comes next.
Many farmers in South Texas say a water treaty with Mexico is costing them dearly. Now the Trump administration appears ready to get involved.
Thousands of acres of Hill Country land have been set aside to create a new state natural area, and Texas Public Radio’s Jack Morgan got a preview.
And: Politics and water take center stage in the new documentary “Thirst for Power,” based on a book by Michael Webber. He joins the show with more.

Reflections from three Holocaust survivors in Texas

President Trump’s long-promised deportation raids get underway in Texas and in other parts of the country. Today, what we know about the weekend operations and what we’re learning.

On this International Holocaust Remembrance Day, the Texas Standard’s Sarah Asch brings us the voices and memories of survivors living in Texas.

And: The Texas Senate has unveiled a bill to create a school voucher plan. The Texas Newsroom’s Blaise Gainey gets us caught up on the plan ahead of a public hearing on Tuesday.

KUT Morning Newscast for June 1, 2023

Central Texas top stories for June 1, 2023. Project Connect faces a pivotal vote. Childcare deserts in central Texas. Austin workers protest telework scheme.