State of Texas - August 17, 2025

Lawmakers launch a new special session as Texas Democrats prepare to head back to the Capitol.  Dylan McKim reports on what's changed and what's next in the fight over drawing new voting lines in Texas.  In addition, Adam Schwager speaks with Texas House Democratic Caucus Chair Gene Wu on why he believes the quorum break sets Democrats up for a win. This, as Speaker Dustin Burrows makes the case for Republican victories in the next special session. Governor Abbott and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announce new plans to stop the spread of screwworms in Texas.  The flesh-eating parasite could cost the state billions in livestock losses.  Senior Science Reporter Eric Henrikson looks closer at the risk and the plan to protect Texas livestock. People from other countries who trying to enter the United States are facing significant challenges with the visa application process.  Investigator Kelly Wiley explores how the problem is affecting students seeking to study in Texas, and what that could mean for enrollment. While flood response legislation has been delayed at the Capitol, some flood victims are looking beyond the government to find help.  Dylan McKim looks at who's stepping up to help as people work to rebuild and recover. State of Texas is a statewide, in-depth program focused solely on Texas politics. Produced at KXAN in Austin and airing in 14 markets across the state, the show gives viewers greater perspective on the Texas Legislature, state policy and elections.