Sometime over the weekend, it happened: people yearning for a return to our old normal began asking if we have a plan to reopen the Lone Star State. Indeed, as early as last Friday, Gov. Greg Abbott announced the formation of a task force to take a closer look at how to emerge from an unprecedented statewide shutdown – one that’s left a major impact on lives and businesses across Texas. At the same time, the governor is trying to tamp down expectations for a speedy turnaround. Health experts tracking the latest numbers are urging a "go slow" strategy, lest we experience a second wave of COVID-19. Public radio stations across the state are tracking the numbers, and you can follow them as well using a regularly-updated map at the Standard’s website. Check it out, and get up to speed with the stories below. Until next week, stay safe and healthy – and we'll see you on the radio.

- David Brown

Work safe, Texas. Texas Work Comp Insurance

Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar: Rough Road Ahead, But State Will Weather Storm

A revised budget is expected by summer. And the state's top financial officer adds a special session isn't needed in the Legislature.

When It Comes To COVID-19, The I-35 Divide Determines Who’s More At Risk

The highway divides much of Austin by race and socioeconomic status. And it’s the working class who might be risking more to do their jobs right now.

‘At The Landlord’s Mercy’: Advocates Worry About Wave Of Evictions, Homelessness

Right now, statewide protections are set to expire at the end of the month and do not go as far in Texas as in many states.

Coping With Cancer During A Pandemic

Megan Murphy says the coronavirus adds stress to the unnerving process of chemotherapy. But her doctors and nurses give her comfort.

Government Relief Less Likely To Reach Latino Businesses (Texas Public Radio)
Coronavirus Is Changing The Way We Grieve. This North Texas Nonprofit Is Trying To Help. (KERA)
New Court Order Allows Medication Abortions In Texas, But Many Women Likely Won't Qualify (KUT Austin)
Faith Leaders Adapt To COVID-19 Pandemic (Texas Public Radio)

I’m back – although even regular listeners to the Standard may not have even noticed, since most of my work is behind-the-scenes these days. I’ve been away for the past 12 weeks, blessed to spend the beginning of 2020 at home with my newborn. Needless to say, my return to work didn’t look like I first imagined; I still haven’t set foot in the office. But in a lot of ways, the semi-isolation of maternity leave prepared me for our “new normal.” I’ve long been out of the everyday habits of driving or running small errands. Because of my baby’s developing immune system, I’ve already been a bit of a germaphobe. And, due to that infant’s immune system and our own lack of sleep, we haven’t been very social for months. Of course, all of that is even more heightened these days. While the isolation is somewhat familiar, the new workday is a brand-new challenge. Like many, I am very ungracefully adjusting to full-time employee and full-time child caregiver. But I do not take for granted that I still have a job in these uncertain times. I also do not take lightly the responsibility Texas Standard has to bring all of you the stories that impact your lives – and those that bring a little joy to them. Please continue to tell us the stories you’d like to hear more about. Ask us your questions about COVID-19. And, if you are able, give to your local station so that we can continue to bring you the Texas Standard. Thanks, and stay safe!

- Laura Rice
@LauraRiceKUT

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