Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Wednesday, April 1, 2026.
Trump’s attack on birthright citizenship reaches Supreme Court
The U.S. Supreme Court is hearing arguments over the future of birthright citizenship and a controversial executive order from President Donald Trump.
Seth Chandler, a professor at the University of Houston Law Center, joins the Texas Standard to explain the current legal status, the arguments on both sides, and what’s at stake if the policy is upheld.
Prairieland shooting trial raises questions about ‘antifa’ prosecutions
A North Texas jury delivered guilty verdicts in a case tied to a shooting at an ICE detention facility, but the outcome is raising broader concerns about how prosecutors define political movements.
KERA’s Toluwani Osibamowo reports on the verdict and its implications.
Artemis mission builds on legacy of earlier lunar exploration
As NASA prepares for its next crewed mission around the moon, the Artemis program is drawing comparisons to historic spaceflight milestones.
Eric Berger, space editor for Ars Technica, joins the Texas Standard to preview the mission and explain what makes this return to lunar orbit different.
Texas ban on smokable hemp products takes effect
A ban on smokable hemp-derived THC products took effect today.
KUT News’ Nathan Bernier reports on what’s changed and what hasn’t in the gray area of THC, plus what’s next for businesses and consumers.
Austin ‘catio tour’ aims to protect birds from domestic cats
An Austin conservation group is highlighting a simple solution to a major environmental issue: keeping cats indoors.
The Texas Standard’s Sean Saldana reports on a “catio tour” showcasing enclosed outdoor spaces designed to protect migrating birds while still giving pets fresh air.
Commentary explores the cultural role of whistling in Texas life
Whistling may seem simple, but it carries deep cultural and personal meaning for many Texans.
Commentator W.F. Strong reflects on the different ways people whistle and how the practice connects to memory, communication and identity.
WNBA pay surge tied to landmark labor deal and economic strategy
A new agreement between WNBA players and league leadership is dramatically increasing salaries, with help from a Nobel Prize-winning economist.
Rachel Bachman, senior sports reporter at The Wall Street Journal, joins the Texas Standard to explain how the deal came together and how it could reshape women’s sports economics.
