Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025. Check back later today for updated story links and audio.
Texas law verifying ages for adult content under Supreme Court review
The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments in Free Speech Coalition v. Paxton, a case challenging a Texas law that requires websites hosting adult content to verify users’ ages. Free speech advocates, including the ACLU, argue the law infringes on First Amendment rights. The ruling could have far-reaching implications for similar laws nationwide.
Tara Grove, the Vinson & Elkins chair in law at the University of Texas at Austin, joins the Standard with more.
Countdown to a TikTok ban in the U.S.
The U.S. is days away from a federal ban on TikTok unless the Supreme Court overturns a law requiring the platform to separate from its China-based owner. Options include a U.S.-based buyer stepping in or intervention from President-elect Donald Trump.
With millions of fans bracing for potential loss, tech journalist Omar Gallaga shares the latest developments.
Live from New York, Austin is now home to the Lorne Michaels collection
The creator and executive producer of “Saturday Night Live” has handed over decades worth of materials to an archive at UT Austin. KUT News’ Becky Fogel reports now on the Harry Ransom Center’s acquisition of the Lorne Michaels Collection.
Teaching carbon capture in Houston-area schools
Middle school students in the Houston area will soon explore carbon capture and storage in science classes. The initiative, driven by grassroots educators, aligns with Gulf Coast industrial projects embracing the technology. Houston Public Media’s Adam Zuvanich reports.
Why Texas highways keep reaching new heights
Texas highway flyovers are reaching dizzying heights, often unnerving drivers. Despite this, construction continues on taller interchanges. Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies examines why bigger is becoming the norm.
Audubon Society sounds off on offshore wind farms
Texas leads the nation in wind energy production, with turbines dotting its vast open spaces. But offshore wind remains untapped in the Gulf of Mexico. The Audubon Society, known for protecting bird habitats, is monitoring the potential impact of these projects.
Sam Wojcicki, senior director of climate policy at the Audubon Society, shares his insights and concern about offshore wind farms.
What Texas can learn from wildfire history
As wildfires rage in California and Texas crews assist in containment efforts, many Texans are reminded of the state’s own history with devastating wildfires.
How can communities prevent or prepare for similar disasters in the Lone Star State? Joining us from San Antonio to discuss strategies for wildfire readiness is Dayziah Petruska, Wildland Urban Interface Coordinator at the Texas A&M Forest Service.
All this, plus Alexandra Hart with the Texas Newsroom’s state roundup and Wells Dunbar with the Talk of Texas.
