Here’s what’s coming up on Texas Standard for Monday, June 15, 2026. Listen on your Texas public radio station, or ask your smart speaker to play Texas Standard. Check back later today for updated story links and audio.
Texas weighs new uses for fracking wastewater
Texas regulators are moving closer to allowing treated wastewater from oil and gas drilling operations to be reused on farmland and other sites outside the energy industry.
Supporters say the proposal could help ease the state’s growing water shortages, while critics warn about potential health and environmental risks tied to contaminants in the water. Alejandra Martinez of The Texas Tribune joins the Standard with more.
Inside this year’s Texas GOP convention
Texas Republicans gathered in Houston this week for the state party convention, where conservative activists and elected officials debated priorities ahead of the next legislative session and midterm elections.
Gov. Greg Abbott used the event to outline his vision for another term, while issues like AI infrastructure and local control also surfaced in discussions. Houston Public Media’s Andrew Schneider reports.
One district is replacing librarians with paraprofessionals
A school district near San Antonio is eliminating librarian positions and replacing them with hourly paraprofessional staff as part of a cost-saving effort.
The move comes as districts across Texas continue to face financial pressure and difficult staffing decisions, while critics argue libraries play a critical role in student learning. Texas Public Radio’s Camille Phillips reports.
North Texans reflect on their World Cup memories
As the FIFA World Cup arrives in North Texas, many longtime soccer fans are thinking about the moments and matches that shaped their connection to the sport.
From family traditions to unforgettable games, residents across the region are sharing memories tied to past tournaments as Arlington prepares to host nine matches this summer. KERA News’ Penelope Rivera reports.
The Spurs lost the Finals. San Antonio got something back.
The San Antonio Spurs lost the NBA Finals to the New York Knicks this weekend in a game that ended 94 to 90. Dan Katz, news director for Texas Public Radio, joins the show with a series recap and more on what could come next.
This week in Texas music history
Jason Mellard from the Center for Texas Music History dives into the past.
An Austin comedy show blurs the line between truth and improv
Austin’s comedy scene is often associated with stand-up clubs and touring comics, but improv theaters continue carving out their own creative space in the city.
One local production combines storytelling, performance and audience participation in ways that leave viewers guessing what’s scripted and what’s real. Texas Standard reporter Sean Saldana brings us the story.
Texas ranchers brace for screwworm spread
After new cases of New World Screwworm were confirmed in Texas cattle, state officials are ramping up emergency response efforts and urging faster federal action to contain the parasite.
Ranchers and agriculture experts are watching closely as officials work to prevent a larger outbreak that could threaten livestock across the state. KTTZ’s Brad Burt reports.
