Government Shutdown

The longest-ever government shutdown was frustrating and financially painful for Austin's controllers, who've already been grinding through six-day workweeks to keep flights flowing.

Beau Whitney, a consultant to the hemp and cannabis industries, said, at a minimum, the new federal ban on THC-containing hemp products will displace more than 40,000 Texas workers and shutter more than 6,300 Texas businesses.

President Trump signed a bill to fund the government through the end of January, ending the shutdown that has dragged on for six weeks.

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission began dispensing partial SNAP payments on Monday. Some families have received benefits, but many families are hanging in the balance or have received far less than usual.

The high court decision allows a lower court time to consider a more lasting pause. The Trump administration is appealing an order to fully fund November food aid for millions of people.

Austin's airport is not on the FAA's list of flight cuts, but controller shortages and ripple effects from major hubs are likely to slow travel.

The ruling Thursday afternoon comes in response to a challenge filed by cities and nonprofits after the administration said it would halt funding for the program on Nov. 1.

Austin-area businesses, churches and nonprofits are offering free meals to help people affected by the delays. Here’s where to get help if you need it and help others if you can.

The Federal Aviation Administration had issued a ground delay for Austin-Bergstrom International Airport on Friday but lifted the delay several hours early.

Austin's airport has been running relatively smoothly, local officials say, but veterans of air traffic control warn unpaid, overworked controllers are being pushed to the limit.