Texas News & Current Events | Public News Service

Researchers say microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic less than 5 millimeters in size. (James Thew/Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, December 24, 2024

Tiny plastic pieces enter the body in ways you'd never think of

By Julieta Cardenas for Sentient.Broadcast version by Freda Ross for Texas News Service reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collaboration …

More cities are looking into establishing a renter's right to cooling equipment, as climate change drives record-breaking temperatures across the world. (Krakenimages.com/Adobe Stock)

Monday, December 23, 2024

Following the TX model: Cities craft plans to protect tenants from extreme heat

By Ysabelle Kempe for Smart Cities Dive.Broadcast version by Freda Ross for Texas News Service reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network-Public N…

The work of GreenLatinos Texas, centers around empowering frontline environmental justice and conservation advocates. Members are actively engaging with local communities to understand their campaign goals and identify areas where support is needed. (Photo courtesy of Green Latinos)

TX group works to give Latinos seat at table in fight against methane

Members of the environmental nonprofit GreenLatinos are involved in a push to get more Latinos across Texas involved in the fight against methane gas…

Upgrades funded by a state program will improve emergency communications across east Texas. (Adobe Stock)

East TX communities granted money for emergency upgrades

Four east Texas communities will share more than $1 million in grant money to upgrade their radio infrastructure systems. The grants are funded by …

More Texans than ever have signed up for health care coverage through the Affordable Care Act, with more than one in nine residents covered under government-subsidized health plans.<br />(C Davids/peopleimages.com/Adobe Stock)

Cuts to ACA, Medicaid, CHIP could affect millions of Texans

More than 3 million Texans could be affected if changes are made to the Affordable Care Act. During the 2024 campaign, President-elect Donald Trump …

Calls to 911 for GLOW users tend to occur in geographic areas where poverty is more concentrated in Longview. (MclittleStock/Adobe Stock)

East TX program connects residents to services, frees up 911

First responders in the east Texas city of Longview are getting help from a recently formed organization. The GLOW program helps connect residents …

According to an EPA report, locations tested across the country had more than one PFAS chemical in their drinking water. (samopauser/Adobe Stock)

TX Sierra Club warns about possible changes to water standards

The most current study from the Environmental Protection Agency estimated more than 143 million Americans are at risk of drinking water tainted with P…

The Texas Business Leader Alliance will elevate business perspectives on a wide range of policy areas, from workforce development and high health care costs to civic participation. (gguy/Adobe Stock)

TX business leaders form new alliance

A new Texas organization hopes to increase civic engagement among business leaders. The Texas Business Leader Alliance officially launches today…

A monarch butterfly can travel between 50 to 100 miles a day during its migration. (Derek Ramsey/Wikimedia Commons)<br /><br />

Government soon to announce decision on monarch conservation

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is expected to decide soon whether to list the monarch butterfly as "threatened" under the Endangered Species Act…

Milk is the only food that makes up an entire food group. (magdal3na/Adobe Stock)

Activist: Dairy may not be best way to get your calcium

By Seth Millstein for Sentient.Broadcast version by Freda Ross for Texas News Service reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collaboration Wh…

Education groups say censorship of course content by the UNT Administration is an example of extreme overcompliance with SB 17. (Adobe Stock)

University of North Texas accused of extreme DEI restrictions

Educators across the state are watching the University of North Texas, as the school denies it overstepped the parameters of Senate Bill 17. The …

The holidays can be hard for Texans dealing with loss or depression

The holiday season is not merry and bright for everyone. If you have experienced the loss of a loved one, lost your job or if you're going through a …

Feeding Texas is advancing policy solutions to both prevent hunger and tackle its causes and consequences. (Daniel Vincek/Adobe Stock)

Feeding Texas Network prepares for legislative session

The nonprofit Feeding Texas Network has announced its priorities for the upcoming legislative session. The food insecurity rate continues to rise in …

Episcopal Health Foundation's survey found that households with diabetes are more likely to say they should eat better and exercise more. More than three quarters (76%) of Texans in households with diabetes say their daily diet could be healthier and 74% say they should be getting more physical exercise. (ratmaner/Adobe Stock)

Survey: Diabetes in TX is a major problem

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, and a recent survey by Episcopal Health Foundation shows that nearly half of adults in Texas say they …

Depending on a person's income, disability, age or health condition they could be eligible for a Dual Special Needs Plan at no additional cost. (Eric Hood/Adobe Stock)

TX seniors could benefit from extra Medicare and Medicaid coverage

Medicare open enrollment is underway, and seniors have until Dec. 7 to update their plans, if needed. Lindsey Vanderbilt, director of communications …

Someone becomes homeless in the United States every 40 minutes. (Pixel-Shot/Adobe Stock)

North TX nonprofit uses technology to combat homelessness

The faith-based nonprofit Our Calling is working with unsheltered clients in north Texas to create a long-term exit plan to help them rebuild their li…

At Adamson High School in the Dallas Independent School District, 95% of eligible students registered to vote. (Krakenimages.com/Adobe Stock)

TX teachers work to register students to vote

More than 100 former and current students from Adamson High School in Dallas are eligible to vote for the first time this year, because of the work …

Early voting turnout outpaced 2020 and 2016 in elections across the state. (driftwood/Adobe Stock)

Texas election officials: Expect long lines on Election Day

Millions of Texans stood in long lines to cast ballots during early voting. In addition to picking the next president, Texans are voting in the …

The goal of the Teen Court system is to keep young adults out of the prison system. (chokniti/Adobe Stock)

TX Teen Court gives students a second chance

By Marium Zahra for Yes! Media.Broadcast version by Freda Ross for Texas News Service reporting for the Yes! Media-Public News Service Collaboration …

The practice of intentionally burning excess vegetation has faced opposition from the public. (gilitukha/Adobe Stock)

Ancient technique used to fight west TX wildfires

By Keaton Peters for Inside Climate News.Broadcast version by Freda Ross for Texas News Service reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network-Public …

The survey shows that because of Texas abortion laws many OB/GYN physicians and resident physicians are considering or have made changes to their practices that reduce the availability of OB/GYN care in the state. (Laura/Adobe Stock)

Abortion ban prompts concern among TX doctors

A recent survey of OB/GYNs in the state shows that doctors are concerned and confused by Texas' abortion ban. 76% of doctors surveyed say they feel …

Early voting in Texas runs from Oct. 21 through Nov. 1. (DOERS/Adobe Stock)

Early voting kicks off in TX

Early voting kicks off in Texas today, and when voters cast their ballots, they'll vote for more than just the president. They'll also pick members …

Early voting in Texas starts Oct. 21. (Alan/Adobe Stock)

Rural voters in TX go to polls with 3 concerns

Rural voters in Texas and across the U.S. tend to be swing voters and may decide the outcome of this year's presidential election. According to a …

The kiosk is operational 24 hours a day. Books, DVDs, and Audiobooks can be returned at the kiosk. <br />(Photo courtesy Little Elm Library)

Library kiosks in TX expand book access in the state

With book bans in public schools increasing, public libraries have a larger purpose. The Town of Little Elm in northeast Texas has found a unique way …

Drag shows are currently banned in Montana and Tennessee. (Seventyfour/Adobe Stock)

TX LGBTQ community fights back against drag show bans

By Nico Lang for Yes! Media.Broadcast version by Freda Ross for Texas News Service reporting for the Yes! Media-Public News Service Collaboration In …

Health care workers and community members work to share factual information about vaccines as we approach the cold and flu season. (Prostock-studio/Adobe Stock)

TX Hispanic leaders dispel immunization myths, encourage vaccinations

Medical professionals and advocates in the Latino community are using National Hispanic Heritage Month to encourage residents to prepare for the upcom…

A rendering depicts the proposed entryway for Teague Park in Longview, Texas. (Photo courtesy City of Longview)

East TX city receives federal grant money to improve park

The City of Longview, in east Texas, will use a $1.3 million federal grant to make upgrades to one of its largest parks. Teague Park sits in the …

If postpartum depression symptoms last longer than a few weeks, mothers are encouraged to talk to their doctor. (sementsova321/Adobe Stock)

TX postpartum expert: 'reach out for help'

About 20% of new mothers experience postpartum depression after giving birth. What's typically known as the "baby blues" usually lasts around three …

A blood test is the only way to determine your cholesterol levels. (jarun011/Adobe Stock)

TX among states with high cholesterol numbers

On this last day of Cholesterol Education Month, the American Heart Association is highlighting the importance of knowing your cholesterol numbers - …

The Fair collaborated with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) and other local organizations to devise ways to make Sensory-Friendly Mornings beneficial and fun. (State Fair of Texas)

State Fair of TX hosts Sensory Sensitive Mornings

Big Tex is up and the Ferris wheel is spinning at the 138th State Fair of Texas. And again, this year the Fair is making special accommodations for …

Last year, nearly 20,000 teens turned 18 or 21 and aged out of foster care without a permanent home. <br />(Rido/Adobe Stock)

Almost 30,000 TX children remain in foster care system

It's a week to celebrate kids, with National Daughters Day today and National Sons Day on Saturday. The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption is …

Federal workers said if the plan known as Project 2025 is enacted, it would upend every government agency. (Prostock-studio/Adobe Stock)

Federal workers in TX voice concerns about Project 2025

Federal workers are voicing concerns about what they see as the potential impacts of the sweeping policy recommendations known as Project 2025…

A clean energy industry advocacy report found nonunion workers are often paid less, incur more job-related injuries and receive fewer benefits than unionized employees. (Adobe Stock)

Report finds poor working conditions in Texas clean energy industry

A new study showed as Texas has emerged as a national leader in wind turbine and solar energy installations, clean energy workers often face …

Early voting for the upcoming general election runs from Oct. 21 to Nov. 1. (Rob Goebel/Adobe Stock)

TX League of Women Voters participates in National Voter Registration Day

Today is National Voter Registration Day, and volunteers with the nonpartisan League of Women Voters are holding voter registration events across the …

A healthy, safe and secure working environment is one of five top issues teachers in Texas say they're concerned about. (WavebreakMediaMicro/Adobe Stock)

TX teachers not discouraged by current political climate

Teachers nationwide say safety issues and politics can sometimes make it harder for them to do their jobs. A safe and secure workplace is one of 10 …

Income, location and trust issues can contribute to health disparities in the Latinx community. (Krakenimages.com/Adobe Stock)

TX nonprofits address health disparities in Latino community

Nonprofits across Texas are coming together to address disparities in health care for the Latinx community. A report by the Commonwealth Fund shows …

Community health workers provide a trust-based relational framework for addressing nonmedical health drivers of health and connecting families to medical resources and social services. (Prostock-studio/Adobe Stock)

Central Texas nonprofit addresses health inequities for new moms

A program in Georgetown, in Williamson County, is working to improve health outcomes for low-income residents by helping them gain access to …

Texas educators said they want democratic representation and a voice in decision-making as-well-as professional training and development. (shootsroom/Adobe Stock)

TX educators prepare for upcoming legislative session

Texas educators spent the summer in meetings and workshops devising a playbook for the upcoming Texas legislative session. The Educator's Bill of …

Liquefied gas export terminals have zeroed in on the Texas Coast for a major expansion of the industry. (AA+W/Adobe Stock)

Climate activists along TX coast want LNG ban

Climate and environmental activists along the Texas Coast are celebrating after receiving favorable news from an insurance company covering liquefied …

Texas does not have online voter registration, but you can update your information or request a voter registration card at www.votetexas.gov. (Rob Goebel/Adobe Stock)

TX voters encouraged to check status

The political climate is heating up in Texas as we get closer to the general election in November. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott says more than one …

A toolkit written for and by LGBTQ+ people aids in end-of-life decisions. (Sage)

New toolkit helps LGBTQ+ people make end-of-life decisions

LGBTQ+ Americans are twice as likely to experience discrimination in health care, including as they age, according to a new survey from the Kaiser …

Activists said Wall Street is bankrolling the coal, oil and gas companies, polluting communities. (Nicola/Adobe Stock)

TX climate activists target Wall Street

Environmental activists from across the country, including from Texas, are spending the summer protesting on Wall Street to highlight the effects the …

Loss of chemotherapy services can signal other gaps in cancer care, such as a shortage of local specialty physicians and nurses. (N Hiraman/peopleimages.com/Adobe Stock)

Rural TX cancer patients face chemotherapy deserts

By Charlotte Huff for KFF Health News.Broadcast version by Freda Ross for Texas News Service reporting for the KFF Health News-Public News Service Col…

Texas delegates to the Democratic National Convention are discussing a variety of issues important to the state, from abortion to school vouchers. (Photo courtesy Sylvia Lagos)

Texas delegates at DNC 'excited about the future'

Texas is well represented at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago this week, just as it was at the Republican National Convention last month …

People are asked to turn off all non-essential lights from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. each night during migration season. (babaroga/Adobe Stock)

Texans asked to turn lights out during migratory bird season

The fall migration period for birds is underway, and the nonprofit Defenders of Wildlife is trying to save as many birds as possible. The Lights …

Beaches are tested for bacteria once a week during the summer because of the Federal Beach Act. (Adobe Stock)

Researchers study fecal matter numbers on TX beaches

Researchers in the Meadows Center for Water and the Environment at Texas State University are studying ways to determine levels of fecal contamination…

A new hub creates simplified programs of study, known as Mega Majors, between Dallas College and its university partners. (Drazen/Adobe Stock)

North Texas colleges unite to improve student achievement

A new partnership is making it easier for students at Dallas College to transfer to a four-year university. The college has joined forces with Texas …

Human symptoms of U.S. avian influenza cases to date include conjunctivitis, mild respiratory symptoms and some increased lethargy, according to Crystal Heath of Our Honor. (Scott Griesel/Adobe Stock)

Growing concern over avian influenza in humans

By Seth Millstein for Sentient.Broadcast version by Kathleen Shannon for Texas News Service reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collaborati…

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PNS Daily Newscast: Afternoon Update - December 24, 2024

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