Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Thursday, June 5, 2025:
Texas lawmakers prioritize energy and water in new legislation
Of the 1,200 bills passed before the 89th Texas Legislature adjourned, many focus on energy and the environment.
Reporters with The Texas Newsroom break down what Texans can expect if Gov. Greg Abbott signs these into law. We’ll hear from KTTZ’s Brad Burt, KUT’s Mose Buchele, and Marfa Public Radio’s Travis Bubenik.
Texas responds to record-setting wildfire with new legislation
After the Smokehouse Creek Fire scorched over 1 million acres, lawmakers passed a slate of wildfire preparedness bills.
Texas Tribune reporter Jayme Lozano-Carver, who covers the Panhandle, joins the Standard with more on what the legislation includes.
Why ranchers are ‘absolutely terrified’ of the New World screwworm’s return
The New World Screwworm’s larvae burrow into the skin of animals like cattle, sheep and deer, causing illness and even death. They were eliminated from North America decades ago, but now they’re on their way back.
The Texas Standard’s Michael Marks talked to ranchers who remember what it was like to fight them.
More farmers are turning to debt. Is it a warning sign?
Farmers are borrowing at higher rates, with non-real estate farm loan volumes up 25% year over year. What’s behind the trend, and does it signal broader trouble?
Harvest Public Media’s Will Bauer has the story.
Texas doctor’s lawsuit could limit HIV prevention access
PrEP is credited with helping drive down HIV infections – but a lawsuit now before the U.S. Supreme Court could end insurance coverage of the drug.
Guardian US correspondent Sam Levin joins the Standard with more on Kennedy v. Braidwood.
Tesla’s driverless taxis could be coming to Austin
Self-driving Teslas may soon be picking up passengers in Austin, joining a growing fleet of autonomous rideshares in the city.
Tech reporter Omar Gallaga joins the Standard to talk about how Tesla stacks up and whether Austin is ready.
Jaws on the Water returns to Austin
This summer, Alamo Drafthouse is bringing back Jaws on the Water on Lake Travis with tubes and a 40-foot screen in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the”Jaws.”
Dani Thomas of the Drafthouse shares the details of the internationally known event:
Texas sheriffs could be required to help enforce federal immigration law
Senate Bill 8 would mandate that all Texas sheriffs enter agreements with ICE and dedicate staff to immigration enforcement.
Francesca D’Annunzio, investigative reporting fellow with the Texas Observer, joins the Standard with details on the controversial bill.
All this, plus Alexandra Hart with the Texas Newsroom’s state roundup and Wells Dunbar with the Talk of Texas.
