Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Friday, Jan. 17, 2025:
Texas prepares for another blast of arctic weather
Severe winter weather is likely to settle in across much of Texas this weekend, with hazardously cold temperatures expected ahead of expected precipitation early next week.
Immigration enforcement and workplace raids under Trump administration
The incoming Trump administration has vowed to make immigration enforcement a top priority, possibly including mass workplace raids targeting businesses employing undocumented workers.
Stella Chávez, Dallas-based investigative reporter with The Texas Newsroom, joins the Standard to discuss what this could mean for Texas workers and businesses.
Republicans target anti-extremism efforts in the military
After the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, efforts were launched to address extremism within the military. Congressional Republicans have since sought to limit these programs, and the Trump administration may now end them altogether.
Jay Price reports for the American Homefront Project.
Freezing weather puts Texas’ homeless population at risk
A blast of cold air is set to bring freezing temperatures to large parts of Texas this weekend, creating dangerous conditions for homeless residents.
KUT’s Kailey Hunt looks at how Central Texans are stepping in to help.
Texas targets Allstate data collection practices
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has expanded his legal battle against data collection. After suing General Motors in August over alleged illegal driver data sales, Paxton has now filed a similar lawsuit against Allstate, accusing the insurer of tracking drivers without their knowledge.
Ezra Amacher, an editor at Insurance Journal, joins the Standard with more.
Civic engagement gets a boost with ‘Light on the Legislature’
The Texas Legislature is back in session, and so is McLennan County Talks’ discussion series “Light on the Legislature.”
KWBU’s Molly-Jo Tilton reports on how the series is spotlighting local legislative concerns and encouraging civic engagement in Waco.
Spaces for hope and healing in Dallas’ marginalized communities
In the wake of a contentious election, Black organizers in Dallas are creating spaces for Black women and queer communities to process emotions and find connection.
KERA’s Zara Amaechi reports on how these gatherings foster hope during uncertain times.
The gang delivers another custom poem. Reach out to Texas Standard with your topic suggestions!
The Texas Tribune’s James Barragán joins the Standard with a recap of the week that was in Texas politics.
All this, plus Alexandra Hart with the Texas Newsroom’s state roundup and Wells Dunbar with the Talk of Texas.
