Here’s what’s coming up on Texas Standard for Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026. Listen on your Texas public radio station, or ask your smart speaker to play Texas Standard. Check back later today for updated story links and audio.
Partial government shutdown centers on ICE funding
A spending bill signed by President Trump funds most federal agencies through the fall – but leaves Immigration and Customs Enforcement without new funding. Lawmakers now face a two-week window to negotiate over ICE’s budget, with billions of dollars and enforcement operations potentially at stake.
Joseph Morton, who covers Washington for the Dallas Morning News, joins Texas Standard to explain what’s funded, what isn’t, and what happens if no deal is reached.
Faith leaders lobby school boards over Senate Bill 11
Texas public school boards and charter governing bodies have just weeks to decide whether to set aside time for prayer or Bible reading under Senate Bill 11. Faith leaders on both sides of the issue are urging local boards to act — or not.
Houston Public Media’s Andrew Schneider reports on how communities are navigating the law ahead of the deadline.
Texas Supreme Court takes control of bar accreditation
The Texas Supreme Court has taken back authority over how lawyers are licensed in the state, ending reliance on the American Bar Association. Supporters say the move modernizes the profession, while critics warn it could create national inconsistencies for law graduates.
KERA’s Toluwani Osibamowo reports on what the decision means for future attorneys.
Starlink poised to expand broadband footprint in Texas
Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, Starlink, is positioned to become the largest provider of federally supported broadband in underserved parts of Texas through the BEAD program. After changes to federal rules allowed satellite providers to compete, Starlink is now pushing back on pricing and coverage requirements.
Texas Standard’s Shelly Brisbin joins the show to explain the stakes.
Family Crisis Center of the Big Bend tackles underreported crimes
In far West Texas, advocates say domestic violence and sexual assault remain significantly underreported across rural counties. The Family Crisis Center of the Big Bend serves five counties and provides shelter, counseling, and outreach to survivors.
Marfa Public Radio’s Mary Cantrell reports on how staff are confronting persistent barriers to justice and support.
NCAA approves acrobatics and tumbling for championship status after years-long push
The NCAA voted last month to add acrobatics and tumbling as a national championship sport. Though the sport has been around for more than a decade, it could now see its first NCAA national championship in 2027.
KWBU’s Molly-Jo Tilton caught up with one of the sport’s creators – and Baylor’s acrobatics and tumbling team.
How Sandra Cisneros adjusted to a move to San Antonio
Sandra Cisneros is one of the most celebrated Hispanic writers, attracting enormous crowds any time she speaks. She often tells would-be writers not to write what they can remember, but “what they cannot forget.” She has written herself out of melancholy several times, like after she moved from Chicago to San Antonio to take a position at the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center.
Commentator W.F. Strong tells us she had to write her way out of depression.
Texas A&M eliminates women and gender studies degree
Texas A&M University has eliminated its women and gender studies degree program following a review of more than 5,000 course syllabi under a new system policy governing how race and gender are addressed in classes. The move comes after months of controversy over academic freedom.
Christopher Hooks, who covers the issue for Texas Monthly, joins Texas Standard to discuss the campus climate and what he calls a pivotal moment in the university’s history.
