Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025:
Texas sues Johnson & Johnson over Tylenol and pregnancy risks
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson, accusing the company of misleading consumers about potential risks of taking Tylenol during pregnancy. The case follows controversial new federal guidance linking acetaminophen to autism – a claim many medical experts say remains unproven.
Texas Tribune reporter Eleanor Klibanoff joins the Standard.
TCEQ approves wastewater plan in Bexar County
Despite strong opposition from residents and environmental advocates, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has approved a permit allowing treated wastewater from a new housing development to flow into Helotes Creek, which feeds the Edwards Aquifer.
Diego Medel of the San Antonio Report joins the show to explain the decision and what comes next.
Bats, pecans and the unseen benefits of nature
Bats may spook people around Halloween, but they’re heroes for Texas farmers, eating insects that threaten crops like pecans. Researchers are finding ways to harness that natural pest control to improve yields and sustainability.
Texas Standard’s Michael Marks reports for Harvest Public Media.
Five years in, AlamoPROMISE shows major impact
The AlamoPROMISE program, which covers tuition for Bexar County students attending community colleges in the Alamo network, is showing big economic returns. A new study estimates the program added more than $600 million to the local economy in its first four years.
Texas Public Radio’s Camille Phillips reports.
What difference has a Michelin star made for these Texas restaurants?
A year after Michelin first arrived in Texas, the coveted dining guide has released its latest list of awardees. But what does the honor actually mean for local chefs and their businesses?
Texas Monthly restaurant critic Paula Forbes checked in with some of last year’s recipients and new honorees. She joins the Standard with her findings:
Gabriella Gamez’s rom-com ‘Kiss Me, Maybe’ finds humor in self-discovery
In her second book, “Kiss Me, Maybe,” Texas author Gabriella Gamez tells the story of a librarian in San Antonio who goes viral after coming out – and sets out to get her first kiss. It’s a modern, funny and heartfelt look at love and visibility.
Art project ‘Tell Her Story’ uplifts women of color fighting breast cancer
A new exhibit in Dallas pairs breast cancer survivors of color with local artists to share their stories through portraits and creative works. The project aims to raise awareness about disparities in diagnosis and treatment.
KERA News’ Marcheta Fornoff reports.
Border groups say militarization complicates drug harm reduction
In Juárez, harm reduction groups are facing mounting challenges as the U.S.-Mexico border becomes more militarized. The nonprofit Programa Compañeros has helped people struggling with addiction for decades, but tighter security is making its work more difficult.
Independent journalist Jason Buch reports for the Texas Observer and joins Texas Standard with more.
