Austin's Public Health Committee Grapples with Homeless Shelter Crisis and Contested McKinsey Study Costs
Austin's Public Health Committee faced criticism over the city's homeless shelter and a contentious $2 million McKinsey study on homelessness. Residents described poor conditions and advocated for better use of funds.
Austin Pioneers Mental Health Diversion Center to Replace Jail Time for Low-Level Offenders in Travis County
Travis County is implementing a mental health diversion program as an alternative to jail for low-level offenders, utilizing a $12M investment for treatment and possibly housing services.
New Adolescent Behavioral Health Wing Opens in Georgetown's Rock Springs Hospital to Address Teen Mental Health Surge
Williamson County opened the Maple Unit, a new teen behavioral health wing at Rock Springs hospital, providing 24 beds for adolescents in response to soaring mental health crises.
Austin Dental Practice Former Owner Sentenced to 3 Years for Wire Fraud, Ordered to Pay Over $2 Million Restitution
A former Austin dental practice owner, Clinton Finch Herzog, was sentenced to three years in prison for wire fraud, involving the misuse of investor funds for personal luxuries. He must also pay over $2 million in restitution.
Austin Launches Texas' First Trauma Recovery Center as Part of Public Health Advancements
Austin unveiled its first Trauma Recovery Center focused on mental health for crime survivors, enhanced newborn care with the Family Connects program, and maintained food safety with over 10,000 inspections.
Texas House Bill to Ban Tobacco and E-Cigarettes on College Campuses Aims to Extend Public Health Measures
The Texas House is reviewing a bill to ban all tobacco products on college campuses, with supporters citing health concerns and the history of the U.S. surgeon general's anti-smoking efforts.