Congress passed a spending package to avert a government shutdown and extend the Farm Bill, providing financial support for Texas farmers and infrastructure, while contentious issues like SNAP funding cuts and debt ceiling debates stirred tensions.

Austin witnessed five fatalities from four separate collisions, including two pedestrian deaths, across a weekend. Concerns about road safety persist despite efforts to improve pedestrian infrastructure.

The Texas Longhorns and Clemson Tigers football teams are preparing for a College Football Playoff game, with predictions favoring Texas. The match includes a quarterback rivalry and potential impact injuries.

Austin is opening its Cold Weather Shelters due to expected freezing temperatures on Friday, Dec. 20. Registration for shelters is at One Texas Center and includes transport and amenities for those in need.

A Ukrainian was sentenced to 60 months in prison for conspiring to offer malware-as-a-service with the Raccoon Infostealer, resulting in over 52 million stolen user credentials.

Lafayette RE Management LLC and founder Thibault Adrien have settled a lawsuit for $680,000 over alleged false claims made to obtain a COVID-19 relief loan.

A motorcyclist, Draven Rains Avila, died in a crash at West Parmer Lane and Ganymede Drive in Austin, pushing the city's traffic fatality count higher than last year.

Austin's HSO, with partners, has provided shelter to over 100 homeless residents for the holidays, as part of a broader effort toward permanent housing solutions.

Authorities seek a suspect who robbed a 7-Eleven in Austin, assaulting an employee and breaking the door during escape. The man is described as white or mixed race, in his 20s or 30s. A $1,000 reward is offered for information leading to an arrest.

Austin welcomes 2025 with a free New Year's Eve event featuring live music, food trucks, drones, and fireworks, with live coverage by CNN personalities.

The Austin Police Department is investigating a homicide in Downtown Austin, where one person died after a disturbance near W 6th St. and Congress Ave. Details are limited, and the investigation is ongoing.

Erik Alejos, 40, was safely found after a CLEAR Alert was issued in San Antonio when he went missing and was considered endangered. His disappearance details are not disclosed.

Four individuals died in separate traffic accidents in Central Texas over a weekend, with incidents involving a single-car crash, a rollover collision, and a pedestrian struck by a car.