Today on Texas Standard: Immigration reform gets another bipartisan push in Congress

Legislation called the “Dignity Act” aims to overhaul parts of the U.S. immigration system with backing from lawmakers in both parties, including El Paso Congresswoman Veronica Escobar.

By Texas StandardMay 12, 2026 9:12 am,

Here’s what’s coming up on Texas Standard for Tuesday, May 12, 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.

Immigration reform gets another bipartisan push in Congress

Legislation called the “Dignity Act” aims to overhaul parts of the U.S. immigration system with backing from lawmakers in both parties, including El Paso Congresswoman Veronica Escobar.

Texas Tribune reporter Gabby Birenbaum joins the Standard to break down what’s in the bill, why its supporters think this moment could be different, and whether there’s any realistic path forward in a deeply divided political climate.

Why adult education may matter more than ever in Texas

As housing, childcare and food costs continue climbing, more Texans are looking for ways to boost their earning power.

The Standard’s Sarah Asch reports on adult education programs helping people retrain, gain credentials and pursue higher-paying work as affordability pressures spread across the state.

Wemby returns for Game 5 of Spurs’ semifinals playoff

San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama returns to the floor after his controversial Game 4 ejection in San Antonio tonight, as the Spurs seek to clinch a playoff win over the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Texas Public Radio’s Dan Katz reports.

Free burgers, long lines and student hunger at UT Austin

Every Tuesday night, students line up along San Antonio Street near UT Austin for a free burger meal that’s become a lifeline for some facing food insecurity.

Texas Standard reporter Riddhi Bora looks at the growing demand, the volunteers behind the effort and what it says about the financial realities many college students are navigating right now.

San Antonio moves to protect veterans using housing vouchers

San Antonio landlords with five or more properties will soon be required to accept federal housing vouchers from veterans under a newly approved city ordinance.

San Antonio Report reporter Andrea Drusch explains how the rule would work, why supporters say it’s needed, and the challenges the city could face enforcing it. 

‘Black Austin Matters’ returns with a new season of conversations

The KUT and KUTX podcast “Black Austin Matters” is back for a fourth season spotlighting influential Black voices shaping Austin culture, politics and community life.

Hosts Lisa B. Thompson and Richard J. Reddick join the Standard to talk about the show’s origins, standout moments over the years and what listeners can expect from the new season.

Texas congressional runoffs could shape the state’s political future

Early voting in Texas’ primary runoff elections begins next week, with several closely watched U.S. House races on the ballot following the state’s controversial mid-decade redistricting.

Houston Public Media’s Andrew Schneider and The Texas Newsroom’s Blaise Gainey examine the key contests and why the winners could have an outsized impact come November.

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