Texas Standard

A new Texas law requires posting the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms. We’ll look at the looming legal battle.Where do Texans stand on how well state legislators are doing their jobs? What about how well the president is doing his job? A new poll by the Texas Politics Project offers a look.The Mexican flag, […] The post Sugar Land acquires historic district tied to city's roots in the sugar industry appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Gov. Greg Abbott's last-minute veto of a proposed ban on THC-derived products has opened a rift with Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, the powerful leader of the Texas Senate who championed the ban.More autonomous vehicles are now on Austin streets – and these Tesla robotaxis are a little harder to spot than their Waymo counterparts.Some Texans […] The post Senate GOP primary brawl could open a door for Democrats appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

State lawmakers passed several bills affecting how Texans vote. What that means at the ballot box.Among the allegations detailed in a lawsuit about conditions inside immigrant detention centers in Texas holding families: fighting for drinking water and children denied medical care.Why an effort by a Las Vegas company to legalize gambling in the Lone Star […] The post Waco adult education program faces budget uncertainty under DOGE cuts appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

A closely watched bill to ban THC products gets vetoed by Gov. Greg Abbott – but that’s far from the end of the story, with the governor calling for a special legislative session aimed at regulating THC.After U.S. airstrikes targeted against Iranian nuclear facilities, what comes next? One of Texas’ top foreign policy experts suggests […] The post Gov. Greg Abbott vetoes THC ban, breaking with Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

The Texas Lottery Commission faces a reckoning after a string of scandals. We look at what’s next for one of the largest lotteries in the country. The U.S. Supreme Court has cleared the way for a controversial private facility in Andrews, Texas, to temporarily store high-level nuclear waste. The U.S. Department of Agriculture plans to […] The post Texas Lottery scandal deepens as ex-director disappears appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

President Trump considers a move that has brought together resistance from the left and the right. The stakes for U.S. involvement in a new Mideast war.Juneteenth is a holiday marking freedom for people enslaved in Texas, a proclamation announced in Texas on this date 160 years ago, now celebrated across the U.S.. The Texas Standard’s […] The post Marking Juneteenth where it began: Galveston celebrates freedom appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Gov. Greg Abbott touted plans to have Texas build a border wall, even soliciting donations from the public. Why the project’s now being scrapped.The U.S. Supreme Court is issuing decisions today, including one affecting gender-affirming care for transgender minors.Lawyers use previous cases to argue in court – but the Houston Housing Authority is caught citing […] The post Houston Housing Authority caught citing fake legal quotes appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Why a stretch of border just over the West Texas state line has become the deadliest place for migrants.How cuts included in the president’s “big, beautiful bill” could affect Texans who depend on Medicaid and Obamacare.Why Gov. Greg Abbott signed into law the largest state-funded psychedelic research initiative in history.Solar panel scams targeting Texans – […] The post Immigration crackdown hits touring regional Mexican artists appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Texas-based historian and author Jeremi Suri joins with the latest about the military back-and-forth between Iran and Israel, threatening to become an even larger all-out war, and what that could mean on the home front – including Texas’ role as the world’s energy capital.Protests against president Trump’s second administration reach a new high water mark […] The post Texans rally statewide on ‘No Kings Day' to oppose Trump polices appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Texans under the age of 18 make up almost a quarter of the state’s population, so we’ve put together a show with them in mind. We’re joining you today from Abilene and the Children’s Art and Literacy Festival.We begin with a conversation about politics: We’ll hear from some Texas teens who make their voices heard, […] The post A special Texas Standard for kids, live from Abilene appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

A very busy Thursday for first responders and meteorologists with flood conditions and heavy dust for many Texans – and it's expected to get worse before it gets better. We'll have an update. Houston, we have a problem, and it may be related to a spat between the president and the world’s wealthiest Texan. The […] The post Asleep at the Wheel celebrates 50 years with Texas tribute appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Gov. Greg Abbott is calling National Guard troops into Texas to respond to immigration raid protests in the state.Texas had a new speaker of the House this legislative session. So how did Rep. Dustin Burrows handle the job?Flights out of the busy, and getting busier, Austin airport have been increasingly delayed because of staffing shortages. […] The post Protests erupt over immigration raids as Abbott calls in National Guard appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Texas has spent years challenging the federal government. So why not fight a recent order to end in-state tuition for undocumented students?Using DNA testing to solve cold cases involving abandoned babies.Why Texas doesn't require most employers to use E-Verify, the federal system that checks a worker's legal status.The new book “Detained” shares the story of […] The post Inside a teen's five months in a Texas migrant detention facility appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Gina Ortiz Jones made history over the weekend, becoming San Antonio's first openly lesbian mayor and only the third woman to hold the office.An assault case is exposing deeper failures in Texas group homes.With the rise of data centers across Texas, a push for private power plants run by natural gas.The new documentary “Sally” explores […] The post Data centers may start creating their own power plants appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

For the first time since Texas’ measles outbreak at the start of the year, there are no new reported cases. We’ll get an update on efforts to contain the disease.A new report in The Guardian reveals pressure from Immigration and Customs Enforcement leadership to ramp up arrests, even of people not originally targeted.Flag football is […] The post Trade tensions with Mexico could drive up tomato prices appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

A old law suddenly no more: a judge strikes down in-state tuition for undocumented students in Texas.What changes can Texans expect for energy and the environment after this week’s conclusion of the 89th Texas Legislature?After the Smokehouse Creek Fire scorched over 1 million acres, lawmakers also passed a slate of wildfire preparedness bills.The devastating New […] The post Why ranchers are ‘absolutely terrified' of the New World screwworm's return appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

The race to be San Antonio’s next mayor was narrowed from a field of 27 to two. What to know before the runoff election on Saturday.Arrests outside of immigration court have happened in El Paso, Dallas and San Antonio. Why activists say this tactic encourages migrants to break the law.Texas is set to become the […] The post Fear at immigration court as ICE arrests migrants there for a hearing appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

The 89th Legislature is history. We’ll look at what lawmakers accomplished and what was left to do.We continue our series on an adult literacy program in Texarkana that does much more than help people get an education – and why it could be a model for other parts of the state.A Houston-based aerospace company successfully […] The post Houston startup eyes two-hour flights across the Pacific appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Texas lawmakers have approved additional funding for public schools, including more money for teachers.Some San Antonio school districts have found a way to help struggling students catch up following the pandemic. What can we learn from those efforts?Texas ranks near the bottom when it comes to adults with a high school education. As the Standard’s […] The post As Texas ranks near the bottom in high school attainment, a Texarkana nonprofit has a solution appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Severe storms brought flash floods, hail and widespread power outages to Central Texas, killing one and hospitalizing two. More than 10,000 are still without power. Rare earth minerals are being wasted when you toss out an old phone or TV. Research in Texas could change the disposal process. Texas Tech just won its first-ever game […] The post Recycling rare earth elements could power the future appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Elon Musk is leaving the Trump administration. Why now, and what's next for the Texas-based billionaire. A bill that aims to plug the state's abandoned oil and gas wells – sometimes called “orphaned wells” – is headed to Gov. Greg Abbott's desk. Insurers in Texas are partnering with aerial imaging and AI companies to assess […] The post Oil companies face new deadlines to plug orphaned wells appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

The House has passed a bill mandating the Ten Commandments be displayed in all public school classrooms. If the Senate signs off, Gov. Greg Abbott is expected to make it law. A 2023 law expanded polling place requirements – but many small counties couldn't keep up. Now a new bill that rolls back those mandates […] The post Corpus Christi's water future looks uncertain as Tesla builds nearby refinery appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

A bill banning all products with THC is headed to Gov. Greg Abbott’s desk. Is this the end of the state's hemp industry? Lawmakers are also revisiting efforts to reform or replace the STAAR test. An investigation finds that some people in Central Texas are stuck behind bars beyond the 90-day limit without being indicted […] The post New institute aims to immortalize the sounds of Texas music appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

This Memorial Day, we’ll hear the story of Florentino Cantú Jr., a Laredoan who saw military service as a ticket to a better life for his parents and 10 siblings. Memorial Day is a day of reflection to be sure, but it is also the unofficial start of summer for many folks. We'll be getting some […] The post After outages last year, CenterPoint promises a better tracker appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

With just over a week to go at the Texas Legislature: what’s passed, what’s stalled, and where we stand. Retailers track your every move to build shopper profiles and offer “personalized discounts.” But these loyalty perks may be more misleading than helpful. Declining enrollment and tight budgets have school districts reevaluating their campuses. In Fort […] The post Fort Worth considers shuttering 14 schools to cut costs appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

A look at the behind-the-scenes dealmaking happening at the Texas Capitol with less than two weeks until lawmakers gavel out on June 2. How proposed cuts to SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, would impact Texans. Apple has a plan to make it possible to use your laptop, phone and even smartwatch with brain control. […] The post As the clock winds down, Texas lawmakers scramble to pass key bills appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Texas lawmakers are considering a plan that could help prevent fentanyl overdoses in the state. Why it may not become law. A decade after the deadly biker shootout in Waco that led to nine deaths and more than 100 arrests, some civil cases against the city are still moving forward. Some Texas law enforcement agencies […] The post How one West Texas town built its own broadband lifeline appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Today we’re broadcasting live from El Paso for a special edition of the Texas Standard. We hear from some prominent El Pasoans – former Congressman Beto O’Rourke and former El Paso Mayor Dee Margo – on the city’s dynamic politics. El Paso has become a leader in innovative water management. How the city is securing […] The post A special broadcast from El Paso appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

A bipartisan bill on abortion has passed the Texas Senate and is making its way through the House. Why lawmakers agree it’s necessary. It’s been a decade now since a deadly shootout involving rival biker gangs at a Twin Peaks in Waco. What an investigation reveals about how the case was handled. Thousands of Brazilians […] The post 10 years later, still no convictions in Twin Peaks biker shootout appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

As the school year winds down, Texas lawmakers cramming for their final days at their desks are focused on education – and what some had hoped would be an increase in state spending per student may be shifted to teacher pay raises.Consumer Reports investigates a tip that sale prices at Kroger aren’t showing up at […] The post State parks are expanding efforts to improve accessibility appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

A bill would make it possible for criminal offenders as young as 15 to be sent to state prisons for adults.Why hopes for a big increase in per-student funding for Texas public schools may have slipped away for this legislative session.Also at the Capitol: The loud bang of a wooden mallet is supposed to keep […] The post Central Texas art studio centers artists with disabilities appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Texas gets a lot of flack for its culture wars – but some note a change at the Capitol this legislative session.More than a year after the state took over Shelby Park in Eagle Pass during the peak of illegal border crossings, it has now reopened to the public – and residents have bittersweet feelings.After […] The post An Austin book club has been reading the same novel for more than a decade appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

A record-breaking heat wave will blanket big sections of the state. Is this a preview of summer?The U.S. has suspended imports of cattle from Mexico as a devastating pest, the New World Screwworm, makes its way north, threatening livestock.The Houston City Council kicks off budget hearings this week, weighing steep cuts.The new book “Freedom Season” by Texas […] The post Potentially historic heatwave settling in over much of Texas appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Abortion pills, denial of bail, and a ban on land purchases for some people: What’s happening in the final weeks of the Texas Legislature?After jackpot controversies, multiple resignations and a ban on online lotto ticket sales, the state's lottery system is now under investigation.Cities on the rise across Texas are quite literally sinking, with Houston […] The post Houston is the fastest-sinking city in the US, study finds appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Texas Catholics, now almost a third of the state population, are celebrating the selection of Pope Leo XIV, the first pontiff from America.Gov. Gregg Abbott has just signed into law a school voucher plan, but some Texans are continuing to push back.A judge orders the sale of the Texas Renaissance Festival, following a civil court […] The post Texas Renaissance Festival ordered to sell land, assets following lengthy legal battle appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Several current and former Frio County officials have been indicted for alleged vote harvesting, part of a years-long investigation led by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. One critic calls it voter suppression 101. What’s behind the charges?In the conversation over cash bail reform, what’s missing? An new investigation points to a lack of focus on […] The post Ranchers plead for help to fight a devastating pest on its way back to Texas appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

According to a new poll, Texans have predictable opinions along party lines about Donald Trump’s immigration policies – but it’s more complicated on the economy.Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is taking legal action against Austin ISD, accusing it of teaching critical race theory. It’s not the first time a Texas district has faced such charges.Shrimp […] The post How shrimp fraud is affecting coastal fishers appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

State lawmakers from the House and Senate reach a deal lowering property taxes. Will it pass?It’s the ultimate company town: How Space X’s launch site in South Texas became a city.Generic and house brands are taking off as people look to save on grocery bills. But that’s not the only reason shoppers prefer them.What’s next […] The post What's next as Gregg Popovich steps away from the Spurs? appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

As the clock ticks down on the legislative session, how close is Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick to completing his wish list?Weekend balloting across Texas brings some big local changes. We’ll hear from reporters statewide.Texans dominate at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson golf tournament in McKinney.The documentary “The Stones Are Speaking” tells the story of Michael […] The post Documentary tells story of landmark Texas archaeological site appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

This week, Willie Nelson celebrated his 92nd birthday. Last weekend, the latest film he served as executive producer on had its debut. It screened at the Dallas International Film Festival and it was co-directed by his daughter, Amy. This is an extended interview with her about the film, “King of the Roadies.” It’s about the […] The post Texas Extra: Amy Lee Nelson on her new film, Texas music, and her dad appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

A South Texas ruling prevents the deportation of some detainees. What it means for the Trump administration’s strategy.Houston’s large Afghan population is closely watching efforts to unwind programs providing them legal status in the U.S. Why many say they can’t return to their home country.Some Texans will be headed to the polls tomorrow for local […] The post Judge rules Trump's use of Alien Enemies Act was unlawful appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

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 […] The post Farmers in Texas face mounting losses as lawmakers propose relief appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Texans weigh in on everything from artificial intelligence to the economic outlook. What a new poll tells us about the state of the state.We’ll also dig into consumer spending, and what the latest information from credit card companies does and doesn't tell us about consumer confidence.Creeks and watering holes are a beloved aspect of Central […] The post UT System bans drag shows, but students push back appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

We've been here before, but this time feels different. President Donald Trump has rounded out 100 days in office, but getting a grasp of this moment in our country's history is a challenge. Whether what's unfolding is good or bad depends on where you look, and who you ask. This hour, we're getting a snapshot […] The post 100 Days, Two Americas: A Texas Standard / California Newsroom Special appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Though a voucher-like plan has passed in Texas, lawmakers are far from done with education-related changes. What’s still on the legislative docket? Just about a month left before scheduled sine die at the Texas capitol, Andrew Schneider of Houston Public Media shares some of the less well-known school-related measures lawmakers are considering.In other news, a […] The post Questions remain after death of man in Dallas County jail appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

A measure long sought by Texas Republicans is now on its way to the governor’s desk: A voucher-like plan to use public dollars to pay for private education. We’ll get details from Blaise Gainey of The Texas Newsroom. A massive plan was once proposed to keep Texas from running out of water in the late […] The post After yearslong fight, school voucher bill clears Legislature appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

After lawsuits and a long delay, the Texas Education Agency releases rankings for schools in the Lone Star State. The school rankings are more than just an indicator of how well students are doing, they can have ripple effects on the schools themselves, as well as on housing prices and more. KERA’s Bill Zeeble joins […] The post How Texas schools fared in long-awaited TEA accountability grades appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Healthcare providers and people on both sides of Texas’ abortion ban are working together – kind of – on an effort to clarify the law.The VA is trying to trim its budget without affecting patients. A closer look at the plans and their potential holes.The number of nurses in Houston public schools has dropped by […] The post Houston ISD has half the nurses it did last year appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

The Supreme Court halts deportations under the Alien Enemies Act. We’ll have the latest on the case involving migrants held in Texas.He was called a “monster” by one of the survivors of the El Paso Walmart mass shooting. We hear from victims and relatives of those killed as the gunman is sentenced.Pope Francis once made […] The post Remembering the ‘People's Pope' appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

From Houston to Fort Worth, thousands of Texans joined people across the country over the weekend in a national day of protest against the Trump administration.The Texas Newsroom’s Blaise Gainey gets us up to speed on what’s happening at the state Capitol with six weeks left in the legislative session.Four Houston-area suicides among members of law […] The post Harris County deputy suicides raise questions about mental health support appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.

Texas Extras are special and extended content put together just for our podcast listeners! Texas Standard recently revealed our Top 10 list from April: the Top 10 Typewriter Rodeo poems from the past decade. Each poem is pretty short, usually just about a minute long, but we still didn't have time to play them in […] The post Texas Extra: Our favorite Typewriter Rodeo poems appeared first on KUT & KUTX Studios -- Podcasts.