State of Texas - August 30, 2026

Texas has reached a $1 billion settlement with Meta over allegations that Facebook and Instagram harmed children's mental health. Dylan McKim examines the new safety measures Meta has agreed to implement, the limits of those changes, and why some psychologists and lawmakers argue the biggest concerns surrounding social media still haven't been addressed. New polling from the Texas Politics Project shows broad skepticism toward data center development, with opposition spanning both political parties and extending beyond rural communities into the suburbs. We break down what voters are concerned about, how those concerns could influence the November elections, and why even supporters of data center growth are adjusting their message. Texas' new Education Freedom Account program is already having a measurable impact on schools. Dylan McKim visits a private school that has doubled enrollment since the rollout and explores how rising participation is affecting both private school expansion plans and nearby public school districts losing students to the program. A new Texas 2036 report estimates child care challenges cost Texas employers nearly $8 billion annually. Adam Schwager looks at the growing economic impact, how businesses are adapting, and why lawmakers are being urged to treat child care as a workforce issue rather than simply a family issue. 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.