Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Friday, April 28, 2023. Check back later today for updated story links and audio.
Texas Senate moves to ban countywide voting centers on Election Day
Passing along party lines, Republican-backed Senate Bill 990 would eliminate countywide polling places on Election Day and require residents to vote at an assigned precinct. Votebeat and Texas Tribune reporter Natalia Contreras brings us the latest.
How the fatal shooting of two migrants changed this small border town
It’s been nearly seven months since two brothers were arrested in West Texas for a shooting that killed a man and critically injured a woman. Both victims were migrants, and both suspects worked in law enforcement. KTEP’s Angela Kocherga speaks to people who knew the two men involved in the shooting, and how it impacted the tiny town of Sierra Blanca.
Drag performers worry about loss of income
Texas lawmakers have proposed bills targeting drag shows, which could lead businesses to cut shows. KERA’s Elizabeth Myong spoke to Dallas drag performers in Dallas about how the legislation could affect their ability to earn a living.
AI project funded by Department of Veterans Affairs hopes to reduce military suicides
The Department of Veterans Affairs is funding a new project that hopes to use artificial intelligence to reduce military suicides. The project analyzes mobile phone data from service members and veterans who take their own lives. Jay Price reports for the American Homefront Project.
Is the Iranian seizure of an oil tanker the cost of doing business?
State-sponsored media outlets in Iran say an oil tanker passing through the Gulf of Oman was seized after the tanker collided with an Iranian vessel. The tanker was headed toward Houston with a load of crude oil that belonged to Chevron. It’s not the first commercial vessel the Iranian navy has seized, either. International oil economist and author John Foster joins us with more today.
Performers pay tribute to Willie Nelson for his 90th birthday
Willie Nelson turns 90 on Saturday and he’s getting a heck of a present: a tribute album of covers from performers like Sheryl Crow, Steve Earle, Robert Earl Keen, Margo Price and more. Musician and producer Bruce Robison joins us to talk about “One Night in Texas: The Next Waltz’s Tribute to the Red Headed Stranger.”
Typewriter Rodeo
The gang delivers another custom poem. Get in touch with your own topic suggestions!
Texas Tribune political reporter James Barragán stops by with a recap of the week that was.
All this, plus the Texas Newsroom’s state roundup and Wells Dunbar with the Talk of Texas.
