Here’s what’s coming up on Texas Standard for Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025.
State begins rollout of flood warning system grants
Texas is taking what officials call a first step toward funding new flood warning systems after deadly July 4 flooding. A new grant program will determine how $50 million is distributed, with eligible counties able to receive up to $1 million each.
Liz Teitz, who covers the environment for the San Antonio Express-News, joins Texas Standard with more.
National THC ban could reshape Texas hemp industry
Texas lawmakers failed repeatedly this year to ban intoxicating hemp products containing THC. Now Congress has passed a nationwide ban set to take effect next November, putting Texas retailers, farmers and consumers on notice. While some businesses are scrambling to adapt, others are lobbying for change before the law kicks in.
Houston Public Media’s Andrew Schneider reports on what’s ahead.
A newly revealed ICE plan known as “Operation Irish Goodbye” would detain migrants as they attempt to voluntarily leave the United States. The effort is intended to make such deportations permanent, but immigration advocates warn it could discourage lawful departures.
Stephania Corpi reports from Mexico City on how the plan could affect border communities.
Tracing the real barbecue joint behind a Texas anthem
Robert Earl Keen’s song “Barbeque” is a beloved cut, but few Texans know the modest Sealy barbecue joint that inspired it. A new deep dive revisits C.L. and Josephine Thomas’ restaurant and the legacy it left behind.
Daniel Vaughn, barbecue editor for Texas Monthly, joins the Standard with more on the song’s origin.
Humanoid robots promise help – but not anytime soon
From factory floors to household chores, humanoid robots are often pitched as the next big leap in automation. But recent demos, high prices and technical snafus suggest widespread adoption is still a long way off.
CNET tech journalist Omar Gallaga joins Texas Standard to explain where consumer robotics actually stand.
Tejano music mourns two foundational figures
The Tejano music world is mourning the loss of producer Manny Guerra and music patriarch Abraham Quintanilla, who died just one day apart. Together, their work helped shape the sound, industry and future of Tejano music in Texas.
Hector Saldaña, Texas music curator at the Wittliff Collections at Texas State University, joins the Standard to reflect on their lasting influence.
Texas lawsuit targets dominant health records company
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has sued Epic Systems, accusing the Wisconsin-based company of monopolizing the electronic health records industry. His lawsuit claims Epic’s dominance limits competition and restricts access to patient data.
Wisconsin Public Radio’s Joe Schulz joins Texas Standard to explain the case, Epic’s response and more.
