State of Texas

State investigators are stepping in as Camp Mystic seeks to renew its operating license following last summer's deadly floods that killed 27 campers and counselors. Avery Travis joins Josh to walk through the allegations in the lawsuits from families, and a court fight that could keep the camp closed as judges weigh whether the site must be preserved as potential evidence. From AI to cloud computing, massive data centers are driving new demand for electricity across Texas. Adam Schwager reports on lawmakers' growing concerns about power and water use, how companies are pitching their projects as an economic boost, and why interim hearings could shape how Texas connects these facilities to the grid in the years ahead. Governor Abbott's freeze on H‑1B visas at state agencies is leaving major exceptions untouched. Investigator Matt Grant examines why private contractors receiving millions in taxpayer dollars can still rely on foreign workers, how state leaders justify the distinction, and why lawmakers are now ordering a deeper review of the visa program. A new state law is set to dramatically change how food trucks operate in Texas, replacing city‑by‑city permits with a single statewide license. Eric Henrikson looks at what the change means for small business owners, why cities are pushing back, and how the law fits into a broader effort to limit local regulation. State of Texas is a statewide, in-depth program focused solely on Texas politics. Produced at KXAN in Austin and airing in 14 markets across the state, the show gives viewers greater perspective on the Texas Legislature, state policy and elections.

Texas regulators have officially banned intoxicating hemp flower, a move supporters say closes a loophole but critics warn could cripple a billion‑dollar industry. Adam Schwager looks at how retailers are scrambling to adjust, what products remain legal, and why some business owners believe the change will push buyers back toward the illicit market. Texas is investing $50 million into clinical trials for ibogaine, a powerful psychedelic some veterans say helped them overcome PTSD and addiction. Dylan McKim examines why the research plan hit a roadblock with private partners, the state's decision to fund the studies, and questions about how much more Texas may need to spend to pursue FDA approval. More than a decade after lawmakers overhauled how Texas investigates public corruption, critics argue powerful officials still rarely face consequences. In a From the Vault edition of Inside the Investigation, Josh and investigative producer David Barer revisit our reporting on dozens of investigations that led to few prosecutions and examine why calls for reform have stalled. Changes to SNAP benefits are now in place across Texas, restricting the purchase of candy and sugary drinks. Nabil Remadna breaks down what's different, the policy goals behind the update, and how state and federal officials say the new rules are meant to improve public health. State of Texas is a statewide, in-depth program focused solely on Texas politics. Produced at KXAN in Austin and airing in 14 markets across the state, the show gives viewers greater perspective on the Texas Legislature, state policy and elections.

Social Media Regulation Push – Recent jury verdicts finding Meta and YouTube liable for harms to young users are reigniting calls in Texas to rein in social media. Josh speaks with State Rep. Jared Patterson about his renewed push to ban minors from social platforms altogether, and the debate over whether that’s necessary protection or government overreach. Texas Hemp Crackdown – A looming state ban on smokable, intoxicating hemp products is shaking the industry, with retailers warning of store closures and tens of thousands of potential job losses. Adam Schwager explains how new rules grew out of Governor Abbott’s veto of a broader ban, and why legal challenges appear inevitable. Data Center Concerns Grow Across Texas – Communities statewide are pushing back against massive data center projects, raising alarms about water use, grid strain, and local control. Grace Gates reports on how lawmakers are responding, including new rules forcing large users to pay for power connections and bipartisan efforts to craft guardrails before development accelerates further.  Will DuPree interviews State Rep. Erin Zwiener about her move to create a working group to address citizen concerns about data centers. Border Wall ‘Mission Accomplished’ – State leaders say Texas is finished building its border wall after more than $3 billion and just over 80 miles constructed. Sandra Sanchez looks at what was built and what gaps remain.  Also, we look at how new federal funding could shift the next phase of border construction — including potential impacts on wildlife preserves along the Rio Grande. State of Texas is a statewide, in-depth program focused solely on Texas politics. Produced at KXAN in Austin and airing in 14 markets across the state, the show gives viewers greater perspective on the Texas Legislature, state policy and elections.

Senator John Cornyn and Attorney General Ken Paxton are officially locked into the May runoff. With Donald Trump still withholding a key endorsement, both campaigns are navigating intense pressure as they court conservative voters. Dylan McKim speaks with New York Times correspondent Lauren McGaughy about the ideological split defining the race and how a Trump endorsement could reshape the contest. New projections show Corpus Christi could enter a water emergency as early as May, threatening supplies for half a million residents and the state's vital energy industry. Dylan examines the drought-driven shortages, growing public frustration, and the city's scramble to bring new water projects online. He also looks at why other regions of Texas face similar risks unless long‑term water planning changes. Texas leaders confront the political and cultural shockwaves following sexual abuse accusations against Cesar Chavez. Cities including Austin and Dallas are considering renaming streets and landmarks, while community advocates call for attention on survivors and strengthening local support systems. A conversation with Council Member Vanessa Fuentes and Travis County Attorney Delia Garza highlights how Latino communities are processing the revelations and preparing for next steps. A renewed push from Republicans aims to overturn Plyler v. Doe, the Supreme Court ruling that guarantees undocumented children access to public schools. Dylan breaks down the congressional debate, the arguments for and against reversing the 40‑year precedent, and how new legislation could trigger a fresh legal challenge before the high court. State of Texas is a statewide, in-depth program focused solely on Texas politics. Produced at KXAN in Austin and airing in 14 markets across the state, the show gives viewers greater perspective on the Texas Legislature, state policy and elections.

Gasoline prices in Texas have surged as the war with Iran disrupts global oil shipments.  Uncertainty over the evolving situation is rattling both consumers and oil companies.  Our team speaks with Texas Oil and Gas Association President Todd Staples, who outlines the state's unique role in the stabilizing supply in a volatile market. After the deadly West Sixth Street mass shooting, Austin police explain why no active shooter alert was sent to the public. Investigators say officers neutralized the threat so quickly that the incident didn't meet the criteria for the statewide alert system. With key reservoirs at historic lows and little rain expected, Corpus Christi leaders warn the city could face a water emergency by the end of the year. Dylan McKim examines what went wrong, the projects underway to prevent disaster, and how the shortage could ripple across the Texas energy sector.  Jeremy Mazur from Texas 2036 joins us to explain how drought and population growth are simultaneously squeezing resources across Texas. He discusses long‑term modeling showing looming statewide deficits and the major policy and infrastructure decisions lawmakers must prioritize. A new partnership is bringing major foreign investment into a planned South Texas refinery, raising questions about what the deal means for state energy policy. Adam Schwager looks at who's taking credit for the project and how it fits into larger national debates about oil production and security. State of Texas is a statewide, in-depth program focused solely on Texas politics. Produced at KXAN in Austin and airing in 14 markets across the state, the show gives viewers greater perspective on the Texas Legislature, state policy and elections.

New polling is giving us a snapshot of where the race for U.S. Senate stands.  We look at the data and also what the numbers show about how Texans view Donald Trump.  Texas Politics Project pollster James Henson joins us to break down the numbers.   Early voting in Texas surpassed turnout totals from recent primary elections.  Dylan McKim look closer at new efforts to increase turnout and what it could mean for both parties in this crucial election year. Increased immigration enforcement may be contributing to a decline in enrollment in schools serving large immigrant and refugee populations.  Investigator Kelly Wiley reports on the numbers and the impact on the local level. There's a new position at the Texas Education Agency tasked with enforcing punishment for educator misconduct.  But the job also includes investigating teachers for their roles during student ICE walkouts, and those accused of inappropriate comments about Charlie Kirk.  Nabil Remadna speaks one-on-one with Levi Fuller, the TEA Inspector General for Educator Misconduct about the priorities of the job. State of Texas is a statewide, in-depth program focused solely on Texas politics. Produced at KXAN in Austin and airing in 14 markets across the state, the show gives viewers greater perspective on the Texas Legislature, state policy and elections.

Four Republican candidates hit the debate stage in the race for Attorney General.  The debate revealed that they have similar positions on policy, but that didn't stop the political fireworks.  Adam Schwager looks at how the debate played out and how it could affect the outcome in the race to replace Ken Paxton. Taylor Rehmet made national news with his stunning win as a Democrat in a red district.  He's officially a Texas State Senator, for now.  But it's not clear if he'll ever get a chance to make a vote in a legislative session. It can be tough to find child care in Texas.  Many parents turn to providers operating out of homes - without a license.  Investigator Arezow Doost looks at the risks raising calls for regulation, and policy changes that could help protect children. Nearly half-a-million Texans live with Alzheimer's and related dementia.  Now, Congress is spending big to help search for solutions.  Avery Travis examines how new funding could boost research into causes and cures. State of Texas is a statewide, in-depth program focused solely on Texas politics. Produced at KXAN in Austin and airing in 14 markets across the state, the show gives viewers greater perspective on the Texas Legislature, state policy and elections.

Texas voters are just days away from the start of early voting, and new polling is showing us the state of some key races.  We look at the numbers at the top of the ticket and beyond, including races down ballot that are shaping the story of the Texas primary. Our investigation uncovers millions of dollars meant for crime victims is being withheld by the state.  Investigator Matt Grant looks into the reason, and why Texas appears to operate differently compared to other states. Data centers are booming in Texas, bringing the promise of jobs.  But with that promise comes concern about the impact on the water supply.  Will DuPree reports on how the state is taking a new step to track the water use of these facilities. State of Texas is a statewide, in-depth program focused solely on Texas politics. Produced at KXAN in Austin and airing in 14 markets across the state, the show gives viewers greater perspective on the Texas Legislature, state policy and elections.

Texas teachers across the state were reported, suspended, or fired after posting social media comments reacting to the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.  Investigator Kelly Wiley examines records that show how the controversy has left many educators facing threats, job loss, and potential loss of their teaching certifications as the state continues to review the cases. High school and middle school students walk out of class at several Texas campuses to protest ICE.  Now the Governor is warning districts to shut those protests down.  Nabil Remadna reports on the crackdown and what's at stake when students leave campus to raise their voices. Tens of thousands of Texas students sign up for a chance to get money from the state to pay for private school.  Dylan McKim looks at who stands to benefit from Texas Education Freedom Accounts, and why some parents are raising concerns.  Texas hospitals have been asking all patients if they are U.S. citizens. Now, we're getting a look at the numbers collected by the state.  Investigator Arezow Doost examines what the data shows, and what it means. State of Texas is a statewide, in-depth program focused solely on Texas politics. Produced at KXAN in Austin and airing in 14 markets across the state, the show gives viewers greater perspective on the Texas Legislature, state policy and elections.

Local law enforcement agencies across Texas have been entering 287 G agreements to help ICE achieve its mission.  Josh Hinkle looks closer at the impact of a new state law paving the way for broader partnerships with the federal entity, and why some worry there's not enough training for law enforcement in these partnerships. Governor Abbott orders public universities and state agencies to halt petitions for H-1B visas. Dylan McKim examines the impact, and why the governor says the state needs to crack down. In the Republican race for U.S. Senate, one candidate is calling for four debates, another says there's no point, and the leader in the polls isn't saying anything.  Adam Schwager reports on why a GOP Senate debate is not likely, as Texas voters prepare to decide this three-way race. A report from the Texas Education Agency shows a spike in the number of students identified with dyslexia - a jump of more than 600%.  Josh Skurnik explores how a state law could be a key factor behind the surge, and how educators are adapting to help students. State of Texas is a statewide, in-depth program focused solely on Texas politics. Produced at KXAN in Austin and airing in 14 markets across the state, the show gives viewers greater perspective on the Texas Legislature, state policy and elections.

Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett and Texas State Representative James Talarico took the stage Saturday afternoon to debate for the first time since they both launched their bids for the U.S. Senate. This week's edition of State of Texas focuses on a few highlights from the debate, including discussions of campaign style, ICE, artificial intelligence, and foreign policy The Dallas-area civil rights attorney and former San Antonio-area school teacher are the top two contenders for the Democratic U.S. Senate nomination. Since the Democratic primary field became set in early December, two different polls have shown a different story. The Texas AFL-CIO COPE convention hosted the debate ahead of the labor organization's Sunday vote, in which union delegates will vote on a possible endorsement in the U.S. Senate race, as well as races across the state. State of Texas is a statewide, in-depth program focused solely on Texas politics. Produced at KXAN in Austin and airing in 14 markets across the state, the show gives viewers greater perspective on the Texas Legislature, state policy and elections.

New polling shows a major shift in the race for U.S. Senate.  The numbers show State Rep. James Talarico now holding a lead over Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett.  The poll also shows a tight Republican primary getting even tighter.  We speak with Emerson College Pollling Senior Director Matt Taglia to dig deeper into the numbers and what they mean for this crucial primary. The state has turned over records on millions of Texas voters to the federal Department of Justice.  Adam Schwager looks at what was shared, why the feds want the data, and why some officials worry the move could affect our elections. Lawmakers in Washington have not been able to reach an agreement to expand subsidies that would help lower health insurance premiums for millions of people who get coverage through the Affordable Care Act marketplace. Now, new data is giving us insight into how many Texans rely on the ACA to get health coverage.  We speak to Texas 2036 Health Policy Director Charles Miller about the numbers and factors affecting the quality of care available to Texans. Big changes could be coming for Texas hemp businesses, including huge fees and a ban on popular products.  Critics call it a business-killer, while supporters say it's necessary regulation.  Adam Schwager breaks down the debate. State of Texas is a statewide, in-depth program focused solely on Texas politics. Produced at KXAN in Austin and airing in 14 markets across the state, the show gives viewers greater perspective on the Texas Legislature, state policy and elections.

The head of one of the nation's largest teachers unions announced a federal lawsuit filed against the Texas Education Agency.  It stems from reviews of social media posts made by educators in the wake of the assassination of Charlie Kirk.  Investigator Kelly Wiley looks closer at the controversy Jasmine Crockett and James Talarico are set to meet on the debate stage later this month.  The people who will see the debate in person could play a key role in deciding who wins the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate. We revisit our reporting on the history of incidents of mass violence in Texas.  From gun policy to mental health, our team and experts broke down the wide array of issues and concerns shaping the mass shooting debate. A new Texas law is changing the way law enforcement across the state reports drone usage. Eric Henrikson reports on the requirement now for police departments to release drone deployment records directly to the public. State of Texas is a statewide, in-depth program focused solely on Texas politics. Produced at KXAN in Austin and airing in 14 markets across the state, the show gives viewers greater perspective on the Texas Legislature, state policy and elections.

The new year shines a new light on one of the biggest stories of 2026 in Texas politics: the race for U.S. Senate. Dylan McKim and Adam Schwager deliver stories focused on the top candidates.  We hear from John Cornyn, Jasmine Crockett, Wesley Hunt, Ken Paxton, and James Talarico - five candidates vying for one seat that could help decide control of the U.S. Senate. Our team digs deeper into the decision facing Texas voters, in a race with nationwide ramifications. State of Texas is a statewide, in-depth program focused solely on Texas politics. Produced at KXAN in Austin and airing in 14 markets across the state, the show gives viewers greater perspective on the Texas Legislature, state policy and elections.  

A new Texas law is boosting businesses that help patients seeking medical marijuana.  As demand grows, Dylan McKim looks at the impact of changes to the compassionate use program, and how it's helping some people have an easier time filling their prescriptions. A West Texas mountain could play an important role in our country's national security.  News Nation's Ali Bradley explores the importance of the rare Earth minerals hidden beneath the surface, that could hold the key to producing everything from smart phones to fighter jets. A girl who died after a long battle with cancer is now inspiring action in Washington.  Congressman Michael McCaul discusses new legislation pending on Capitol Hill that could save young lives. State lawmakers approved millions of dollars to help save the Battleship Texas.  Now there's new progress in the restoration process.  Daryl Matthews takes us on board to get a closer look at the work to save this historic ship. State of Texas is a statewide, in-depth program focused solely on Texas politics. Produced at KXAN in Austin and airing in 14 markets across the state, the show gives viewers greater perspective on the Texas Legislature, state policy and elections.

The deadly July floods led to a new state law meant to protect children at camps.  Now some camps worry one provision of the law will force them to shut down.  Adam Schwager reports on why camp leaders need to change part of the law requiring fiber internet. The Texas Attorney General created a new tool to enforce a new state law designed to keep transgender women out of women's restrooms. But the tool could come with legal ramifications, raising privacy concerns. Texas Democrats have several choices in the primary race to decide who challenges Governor Greg Abbott.  We hear from the top candidates making their case to win your vote, and see why one is already rising above the field. President Trump issues an executive order aimed at giving the U.S. the advantage in the race for Artificial Intelligence.  But the federal plan is raising questions about the impact on a new Texas law set to take effect in just days.

The field is set for the race to become the next U.S. Senator from Texas.  The newest candidate to join the field is shaking up the campaign.  Dylan McKim digs deeper into polling, and we speak with Jim Henson with the Texas Politics Project to explore what voters say they want from the candidates. Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick are each touting plans to cut property taxes in Texas.  Abbott wants to eliminate school property taxes, but Patrick is skeptical about that idea.  Adam Schwager looks at the competing visions and the potential conflict between the state's top leaders. Politics is often described with terms from war, and sometimes it seems like a battlefield of sorts.  But one group is trying to change that, believing it's time to build, not fight.  Will DuPree speaks with the executive director of the Builders Movement to explore a different way to push for policy solutions. Newly-released 9-1-1 calls are giving new insight into the overwhelming emergency facing first responders on the night of the July floods in Kerr County.  Kelly Wiley and Kevin Baskar dig deeper into calls that capture the urgency as the river rose rapidly in the middle of the night. State of Texas is a statewide, in-depth program focused solely on Texas politics. Produced at KXAN in Austin and airing in 14 markets across the state, the show gives viewers greater perspective on the Texas Legislature, state policy and elections.

For nearly 30 years, the Historically Underutilized Business program helped minority and women-owned business compete for state contracts.  But now the HUB program is getting a new name and a narrower mission.  Dylan McKim reports on the decision and the battle brewing over who gets a shot to earn state contracts. After a deadly shooting near the White House, asylum cases for refugees from Afghanistan are on hold.  The policy change includes people who risked their lives to help our military.  Congressman Michael McCaul joins us to discuss what happens now and the balance between security and protecting America's allies. Elaine Nguyen met her son for the first time, and said goodbye in the same moment.  Her experience inspired a new law to help give families more time to grieve.  Arezow Doost explores the story behind the law that aims to help parents facing unimaginable loss. President Trump says Texas Congressman Henry Cuellar should sleep well.  The President made the comment after he granted a pardon to the Congressman, who was facing bribery accusations.  Vinay Simlot reports on the reaction to the decision. State of Texas is a statewide, in-depth program focused solely on Texas politics. Produced at KXAN in Austin and airing in 14 markets across the state, the show gives viewers greater perspective on the Texas Legislature, state policy and elections.

From border security to terrorism and THC, and the ongoing legal battle over redistricting, Governor Abbott is making decisions with wide-ranging impact on Texans.  Dylan McKim  catches up with the Governor in an informal setting to get his perspective on issues and policies making headlines. As court battles continue over the Ten Commandments in schools, the divisive issue is leading some Texas teachers to make tough choices about their jobs.  Jamie Stengle with the Associated Press digs deeper into the clash of beliefs now playing out in Texas classrooms. A law meant to protect the innocent turned into a way to hide critical details after deadly encounters with law enforcement.  Josh Hinkle looks back at the fight to close the Dead Suspect Loophole, and why that battle has an ongoing impact. Texas makes progress with steps to keep Monarch butterflies from being killed by cars during migration season.  But some people worry a move from the federal government could create a new risk for the butterflies.  Sandra Sanchez travels to the National Butterfly Center to get a closer look at the work to protect Monarchs. State of Texas is a statewide, in-depth program focused solely on Texas politics. Produced at KXAN in Austin and airing in 14 markets across the state, the show gives viewers greater perspective on the Texas Legislature, state policy and elections.  

Our investigation reveals that while Texas is a leader in legislation to stop human trafficking, few people actually face trafficking charges. Jennifer Sanders uncovers difficulties Texas prosecutors face in dismantling modern-day slavery and what it means for those seeking accountability. A court opinion briefly blocked the Texas congressional redistricting map, setting the stage for a key decision by the U.S. Supreme Court.  We track reaction to the lower court's decision and how the pending Supreme Court case is adding uncertainty for candidates in the campaign to determine whether Democrats or Republicans control Congress. FEMA is looking for a new leader after the departure of the agency's acting director.  A Texan could be the prime candidate for the job. Hannah Brandt looks into reports that the agency is considering making a move to the Lone Star State. State of Texas is a statewide, in-depth program focused solely on Texas politics. Produced at KXAN in Austin and airing in 14 markets across the state, the show gives viewers greater perspective on the Texas Legislature, state policy and elections.