Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Monday, July 27, 2026.
Texas foster care rulings strengthen parental rights
Three recent rulings are reshaping how the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services handles abuse, neglect and termination-of-rights cases. The decisions suggest a greater emphasis on preserving families and raising the legal threshold for removing children from their parents, following a new constitutional amendment on parental rights.
Texas Tribune health services reporter Terri Langford joins the Standard with more.
Court rejects injunction in Texas abortion case
A Texas appeals court has thrown out an injunction against Houston midwife Maria Rojas, saying the attorney general’s office failed to present direct evidence that she violated the state’s abortion ban. The closely watched case is among the first to test enforcement of the law in court.
Houston Chronicle state politics reporter Casey Murray joins the Standard with the story.
Austin-San Antonio passenger rail remains years away
New studies conclude that passenger rail service between Austin and San Antonio is possible, with two potential routes under consideration. But major questions remain about funding, track access and the years of planning required before trains could begin carrying passengers.
Texas Public Radio’s Jerry Clayton reports.
Eagle Pass toll bridge divides Maverick County
A proposed international toll bridge near Eagle Pass has drawn support as a potential source of trade, jobs and public revenue for Maverick County. But questions about financing, political influence and the project’s local impact have turned it into a deeply divisive issue.
Freelance border and politics reporter Jason Buch joins the Standard with more.
Oil prices fall after US-Iran fighting pauses
Oil prices have eased after the United States and Iran paused fighting to allow diplomatic efforts to continue. But uncertainty in the Middle East, the Russia-Ukraine war and hurricane-season threats along the Gulf Coast could still produce volatility in energy markets and at the pump.
Matt Smith, lead energy analyst at Kpler, joins the Standard with more.
The week in Texas music history
Jason Mellard from Texas State’s Center for Texas Music History looks back.
Family literacy programs bring more fathers into learning
Family literacy programs are working to involve more fathers in reading, conversation and everyday learning activities with their children. The approach aims to strengthen language skills while helping dads take a more active role in their children’s education.
Texas Public Radio’s Yvette Benavides reports as part of its Family Literacy Solutions Journalism project.
Anti-Indian rhetoric reaches North Texas dance community
Rising anti-Indian sentiment in North Texas is affecting more than politics and public debate. Indian American dancers and other artists say hostile rhetoric is shaping how they experience their communities, perform their work and express their cultural identities.
KERA News’ Marcheta Fornoff reports.
