Austin, TX
Bills banning guaranteed income programs fail at Texas legislature
Programs where governments give cash to low-income people with no strings attached may be permitted to continue in Texas after lawmakers failed to pass bills barring these programs.
Republican lawmakers filed four bills this legislative session to stop guaranteed income programs, arguing that public money should not be given to private individuals without a clear purpose.
But while at least one bill appeared to have the momentum needed to become law, all eventually failed.
Both state Sen. Paul Bettencourt, a Republican from Houston and state Rep. Ellen Troxclair, a Republican from the Austin area, authored bills prohibiting direct or indirect cash payments from local governments to individuals.
Renee Dominguez
/
KUT News
Senate Bill 2010, filed by Bettencourt, showed the most promise of becoming law this session. Lawmakers passed it out of the Senate. It went to the House. But once there it died.
Bettencourt did not respond to a request for comment, while Troxclair’s office declined an interview.
Guaranteed income programs have become increasingly popular in the U.S. New York, Los Angeles and New Orleans all have or had guaranteed income programs. Supporters of guaranteed income programs have painted them as necessary safety nets, especially as the cost of food and housing has risen across the country.
“It is the fine line between living in survival mode, just barely making it, and being able to thrive and take care of yourself,” said Ashleigh Hamilton, who was part of a guaranteed income program in Texas during the pandemic and testified against these bills during the legislative sessions
Austin has had a guaranteed income program since 2022. Last year, the city committed to giving 97 people $1,000 a month for a year. Participants received their last payment in May.
But as much as these programs have been celebrated, they have equally been criticized. GOP-led states, including Iowa, Arkansas and Idaho, have outlawed them.
Even before the legislative session began it was clear guaranteed income would be a target of Texas lawmakers. In Jan. 2024, Bettencourt asked Attorney General Ken Paxton to investigate whether guaranteed income programs violate the state constitution.
Months later, Paxton made his opinion clear: He sued Harris County to halt its guaranteed income program. The Texas Supreme Court issued a ruling freezing the program.
“There is no such thing as free money — especially in Texas,” Paxton wrote in the lawsuit. He pointed to a clause in the state’s constitution prohibiting public funds from being given to private individuals with no clear aim.
Lawmakers made similar arguments this session. They also questioned in hearings whether government cash programs that don’t require participants to work encouraged people to work less.
Research on the impacts of guaranteed income on employment are mixed. One study found that people who got $1,000 a month worked, on average, 1.3 fewer hours a week than people who did not receive this cash. Other researchers have found no impact on work hours.
Lawmakers did not spend much time debating how people who participate in guaranteed income programs spend that money, which has historically been a critique of these programs. In one study of Austin’s guaranteed income program, people who received the money said they spent most of it on housing, either in the form of rent or mortgage payments.
It’s unclear if Austin will continue to fund its guaranteed income program. Mayor Pro Tem Vanessa Fuentes, who represents parts of Southeast Austin and has been an advocate of guaranteed income in the past, said Monday she would push to continue it. The city typically finalizes its budget in August.
Last Updated On – 21st December, 2025
Jump To: Best Indian | Buffet & Casual | Hidden Gems
Round Rock has quietly become one of Central Texas’ best places to find authentic Indian food. From comforting North Indian curries to crave-worthy South Indian dosas and vegetarian specialties, the city offers far more than just a handful of options.
Whether you’re searching for a family-friendly buffet, bold South Indian spice, or a dependable spot for butter chicken and naan, these Round Rock-area Indian restaurants are verified to be operating in 2025.
Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.
Also, check out our articles on the Best Sports Bars in Round Rock, Healthy Food in Round Rock, and Cheap Restaurants in Round Rock.
Best Indian Restaurants in Round Rock
Rock N Grill Indian Cuisine
Image Credit: Rock N Grill – Indian Cuisine and Bar – Collage FB Page
A crowd-pleasing local favorite known for bold curries, smoky tandoori dishes, and generous portions that keep Round Rock diners coming back.
Where: 300 Hesters Crossing Rd, Round Rock, TX 78681
Operating Hours: Daily, 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM; 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Tarka Indian Kitchen – Round Rock
A modern, fast-casual spot perfect for reliable Indian classics, quick lunches, and stress-free dinners with consistent flavor.
Where: 201 University Oaks Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
Operating Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sangam Chettinad Indian Cuisine
The go-to destination for fiery South Indian flavors and Chettinad specialties you won’t find on most Indian menus.
Where: 12233 Ranch Rd 620 N, Round Rock, TX 78681
Operating Hours: Daily, 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM; 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Indian Buffets & Casual Dining
Star of India – Round Rock
Image Credit: starofindiatx.com
A dependable choice for familiar Indian favorites, especially when you want an easy, no-surprises meal.
Where: 110 N Interstate 35, Round Rock, TX 78681
Operating Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM; 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Curry Kitchen Round Rock
A relaxed neighborhood restaurant serving comforting Indian classics perfect for family dinners.
Where: 1700 E Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78664
Operating Hours: Daily, 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Teji’s Indian Restaurant (Cedar Park)
A longtime local staple offering classic North Indian comfort dishes in a welcoming, casual setting.
Where: 202 Walton Way, Cedar Park, TX 78613
Operating Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
India Gate Restaurant
Image Credit: indiagateaustin.com
A casual Indian restaurant popular for its lunch buffet and approachable menu featuring familiar crowd favorites.
Where: 12636 Research Blvd Ste A110, Austin, TX 78759
Operating Hours: Sunday 7:30 am – 9:30 pm | Monday – Thursday 10 am – 10 pm | Friday – Saturday 7:30 am – 10 pm
Asiana Indian Cuisine
A well-rounded Indian restaurant with both North and South Indian options when Round Rock spots are busy.
Where: 801 E William Cannon Dr, Austin, TX 78745
Operating Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites – In and Out of Round Rock
Biryani Pot
Image Credit: biryanipotaustin.com
A must-visit for biryani lovers, known for aromatic rice dishes and bold, spice-forward flavors.
Where: 201 University Oaks Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
Operating Hours: Daily, 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Godavari — Local Favorite
A destination-worthy spot for authentic Telugu and South Indian regional dishes rarely found elsewhere.
Where: 12100 N FM 620, Austin, TX 78750
Operating Hours: Daily, 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Bawarchi Indian Cuisine
A popular choice for big menus and flavorful biryanis that satisfy a wide range of Indian food cravings.
Where: 12407 N MoPac Expy, Austin, TX 78758
Operating Hours: Daily, 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Planning on your next adventure after eating Chicken Biryani? Browse our events guide for festivals, markets, and more treats near you.
Lacey is a freelancer and Austin local who’s always on the hunt for new restaurants to try, fun activities to do, and local events to attend. She loves sharing her discoveries with others through her writing and hopes her work encourages both visitors and locals to be active in the community. When she’s not writing, you can find her exploring one of the city’s many hiking trails with her Blue Heeler, Oreo, getting lost in a good book, or dancing the night away to some house or techno beats at one of her favorite rave spots.
You can watch “Texas Eats” on Saturdays at 10 a.m. on KSAT 12, KSAT.com, and KSAT Plus, our free streaming app.
This week on Texas Eats:
Ramen Tatsu-Ya
1600 E 6th St., Austin, Texas 78702
Ramen Tatsu-ya is an Austin staple known for serious Japanese ramen, crafted by chefs Tatsu Aikawa and Takuya Matsumoto. Their broths are slow-cooked, complex, and authentic, and their noodle bowls are rich, comforting, and widely praised by locals and critics alike.
Otto’s Ice House
111 Newell Ave., San Antonio, Texas 78212
Otto’s Ice House, located in the Pearl District, mixes the chill vibes of a Texas ice house with upscale touches. From street tacos and bratwurst to creative cocktails and live music, it’s a place to kick back with friends outdoors or by the river. The menu is casual but well-executed, and the owner Levi Goode brings in a reputation for quality and storytelling.
Texas Bistro
1932 S Seguin Avenue #209, New Braunfels, Texas 78130
Texas Bistro is a New American restaurant in New Braunfels that focuses on fresh, thoughtfully prepared dishes in a relaxed but refined environment. It draws praise as one of the area’s standout places for dinner.
Goode Co. BBQ
5109 Kirby Drive, Houston, Texas 77098
Goode Co. Barbeque is a long-standing Houston institution (since 1977) specializing in Texas-style barbecue slow-smoked over mesquite wood. They serve tender brisket, ribs, sausage, and classic sides, often paired with their signature pecan pie. The vibe is down-home, rustic, and welcoming — a place built around tradition, smoked meats, and a sense of genuine Texas BBQ hospitality.
Canje
1914 E 6th St. Ste C, Austin, Texas 78702
Canje is a vibrant Caribbean-inspired restaurant founded by Chef Tavel Bristol-Joseph. Located in East Austin, it blends Caribbean and Guyanese traditions with modern techniques, emphasizing fresh, regionally-sourced ingredients and sustainable practices. The atmosphere is lively and colorful, with bold flavors and inventive dishes that reflect the broader diaspora of island cuisines.
Best Quality Daughter
602 Avenue A, San Antonio, Texas 78215
Best Quality Daughter is an Asian-American restaurant in the Pearl, founded by Chef Jennifer Dobbertin. It showcases flavors from her heritage and her travels, offering dishes that blend comfort with creativity in a welcoming space. It’s earned acclaim locally and has become a key part of San Antonio’s emerging food scene.
McAdoo’s Seafood
196 N Castell Ave., New Braunfels, Texas 78130
McAdoo’s is an upscale seafood restaurant in downtown New Braunfels housed in the old post office building. They offer a mix of fresh seafood, authentic Cajun-Creole dishes, and Texas Creole favorites. The setting includes a courtyard and intimate bar, and the menu combines fine dining touches with hearty, flavor-forward preparations.
La Tequila Mexican Restauarnt
90 Crossroads Blvd., Balcones Heights, Texas 78201
La Tequila Jalisco offers auténtica comida mexicana in Balcones Heights with a menu full of Jalisco-style dishes like enchiladas, fried shrimp, and classic tacos. Its warm, family-friendly setting makes it a go-to for locals craving hearty, approachable Mexican food.
Follow Texas Eats and David Elder on Facebook and Instagram for more food info, pictures, videos and giveaways.
Copyright 2025 by KSAT – All rights reserved.
AUSTIN (The Texas Tribune) — The records in Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s divorce case have been unsealed.
Judge Robert Brotherton, who is presiding over the case, signed an order Friday morning allowing the records to be made public. The decision came after Paxton and his wife, state Sen. Angela Paxton, announced that they had come to an agreement late Thursday to unseal the documents.
Tyler Bexley, an attorney for a group of media organizations fighting for the records to be released, celebrated the decision as a win for transparency.
“We’re certainly pleased with the result,” Bexley said after the hearing.
The move was an abrupt about-face for the couple, who had fought to keep the records secret. It’s unclear exactly what brought on the change.
The records were released before noon. They show the Paxtons have entered mediation, and their blind trust had doled out $20,000 to each of them to pay for their attorneys. The documents also show that earlier this month, Angela Paxton asked her husband to produce records pertinent to the case. They also show multiple judges recused themselves from the case before it was given to Brotherton, a visiting judge based in Wichita Falls.
The Texas Newsroom previously published copies of several records — including Paxton’s general denial of his wife’s divorce petition — before they were sealed.
The records did not shed more light on the couple’s financial situation, division of assets or the alleged affair that led to the divorce — but additional filings will be made as the case continues. Bexley said the media organizations agreed to redactions only of personal information like Social Security numbers and home addresses.
State Sen. Angela Paxton filed for divorce in July alleging adultery. Soon after, she asked for the court record to be sealed. A previous judge handling the case agreed and put all of the records under seal. Ken Paxton initially supported the decision, filing a court document that accused the press of attempting to unfairly invade his personal life.
Eight media organizations and a nonpartisan nonprofit opposed the sealing. The media group argued Paxton’s divorce records should be public because he is an elected official running for office who has faced repeated allegations of corruption. The attorney general’s finances, which are a subject of the divorce case, have been central to the misconduct allegations against him. While he has been charged with multiple crimes during his decade in statewide office, Paxton has never been convicted.
Paxton is now challenging John Cornyn in the Republican primary for U.S. Senate.
Laura Roach, one of Ken Paxton’s lawyers, said after the Friday hearing that the attorney general had always wanted the record to be unsealed.
“Mr. Paxton has always wanted us to actually unseal it,” she said. “Attorneys get on a path and we think that that’s the right way to go and we were finally able to get everybody on the same page.”
When asked why he initially opposed it so strongly, she added, “that’s just legal stuff. … His attorneys said that.”
Angela Paxton had asked the records be sealed because doing so would “not have an adverse affect on the public health or safety.” Her representatives declined to respond on Friday.
Michael Clauw, the communications director for the nonprofit Campaign for Accountability that also sought the release of the records, said he does not believe Ken Paxton actually wanted them to be made public.
“It’s ridiculous to believe that Ken Paxton ‘always wanted’ his divorce record to be unsealed,” he said. “Only when it became apparent he likely would lose in court did he change his tune.”
Roach said she expects the case to be resolved amicably soon. Neither Ken Paxton nor Angela Paxton appeared at the court.
This article originally appeared in The Texas Tribune at www.texastribune.org. The Texas Tribune is a nonprofit, nonpartisan media organization that informs Texans – and engages with them – about public policy, politics, government and statewide issues.
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