No more driving to Houston: Baytown’s new events center will host concerts and sports
Read full article: No more driving to Houston: Baytown’s new events center will host concerts and sportsBaytown is officially moving forward with the ExxonMobil Baytown Events Center, a new multi-purpose venue designed to bring concerts, sports tournaments, and community events closer to home. The City Council on Jan 8 approved Barker Rinker Seacat Architecture to lead the design of the project.
‘You want to die?’: Court docs detail alleged sexual assault, armed robbery tied to suspect in UH campus bank robbery
Read full article: ‘You want to die?’: Court docs detail alleged sexual assault, armed robbery tied to suspect in UH campus bank robberyThe man who authorities have linked to an armed robbery at a bank on the University of Houston campus last week has also been charged related to a violent kidnapping, sexual assault and attempted robbery last month.
Suspect in bank robbery on UH campus wore fake breasts, hijab during alleged heist, source says
Read full article: Suspect in bank robbery on UH campus wore fake breasts, hijab during alleged heist, source saysNew details are emerging in the investigation into a bank robbery on the University of Houston campus after a suspect was taken into custody.
Turn to tea this year to slow down, reset, and satisfy without regrets
Read full article: Turn to tea this year to slow down, reset, and satisfy without regretsJanuary is often about starting fresh, so, we're talking tea as a daily ritual to help you center and refresh. We met Houston entrepreneur and certified tea specialist Jasmine Oliver about how the simple act of enjoying a cup of tea helped her begin her own health journey.
Vacant church buildings along N. Freeway burn; person-of-interest who may have been in building when fire started sought
Read full article: Vacant church buildings along N. Freeway burn; person-of-interest who may have been in building when fire started soughtThe fire was first reported to KPRC 2 by a caller at around 1 p.m. Monday. The impacted building is located in the 6500 block of the North Freeway.
From family recipes to Latuli, chef Bryan Caswell is back on the Houston dining scene
Read full article: From family recipes to Latuli, chef Bryan Caswell is back on the Houston dining sceneA new neighborhood restaurant, but this one comes with serious culinary credentials. Chef Bryan Caswell is back in the spotlight with the Memorial-area restaurant Latuli. We learned from him why this project is so special. Plus, a chicken and dumpling recipe from the menu that you'll want to add to your dinner rotation.
Overturned 18-wheeler causes hazmat spill, shuts down exit ramp on Eastex Freeway at 610 North Loop
Read full article: Overturned 18-wheeler causes hazmat spill, shuts down exit ramp on Eastex Freeway at 610 North LoopAn overturned 18-wheeler has shut down the exit ramp on the Eastex Freeway at 610 North Loop.
200 immigration and border security cases filed in Southern District during first week of 2026
Read full article: 200 immigration and border security cases filed in Southern District during first week of 2026Houston’s Southern District filed 200 immigration and border security cases in the first week of 2026, targeting illegal entry, felony reentry, and human smuggling.
Texas health regulators propose major fee hikes, new rules for hemp-derived THC products
Read full article: Texas health regulators propose major fee hikes, new rules for hemp-derived THC productsTexas health regulators are considering sweeping changes that could dramatically reshape the hemp-derived THC industry, and many small business owners say the cost alone could put them out of business.
Man rescued after being stuck in sewer for several days in NW Houston
Read full article: Man rescued after being stuck in sewer for several days in NW HoustonAfter being stuck in a sewer for several days, a man was finally rescued, according to the Ponderosa Fire Department and Harris County Precinct 4 Constable’s Office.
Houston woman works toward first home after joining free United Way financial program
Read full article: Houston woman works toward first home after joining free United Way financial programThe Integrated Client Journey is a long-term support program designed to help people build stability through goal setting, financial coaching, and career planning.
Two records set among 2026 Houston Marathon champions
Read full article: Two records set among 2026 Houston Marathon championsZouhair Talbi and Calli Hauger-Thackery crowned 2026 Chevron Houston Marathon champions. Habtom Samuel and Fentaye Belayneh crowned 2026 Aramco Houston Half Marathon Champions.
Thousands hit the streets for 2026 Chevron Houston Marathon
Read full article: Thousands hit the streets for 2026 Chevron Houston MarathonThe 2026 Chevron Houston Marathon sees thousands of participants from around the world, marking its evolution from a small local event in 1972 to a significant international race attracting over 25,000 runners. The event, starting at 7 a.m. with various race categories, highlights Houston's vibrant neighborhoods and embodies the city’s community spirit, culminating in awards ceremonies at 1 p.m.
One dead after car crashes into tree in Northeast Houston
Read full article: One dead after car crashes into tree in Northeast HoustonA driver died in a single-vehicle crash in northeast Houston early Sunday morning when a Honda Civic collided with a tree near Tidwell Road and Wayside Drive. The incident was reported at 3:43 a.m., with the driver found trapped inside the vehicle and not breathing, and was pronounced dead at the scene by the medical examiner's office.
Man found shot dead inside a vehicle in a Northeast Harris County neighborhood, suspects still on the loose
Read full article: Man found shot dead inside a vehicle in a Northeast Harris County neighborhood, suspects still on the looseA young Hispanic male was found dead from multiple gunshot wounds inside a vehicle on Vistadale Drive in Humble, Harris County. The shooting, which occurred in the street, prompted an investigation by local authorities who are seeking four suspects described as Black or Hispanic males in dark clothing and masks. The victim, who did not reside in the neighborhood, was pronounced dead at the scene despite efforts by emergency medical services. Residents are urged to assist with surveillance footage, and the investigation is ongoing.
‘Close it up and go home’: Houston police shut down after-hours club on South Gessner
Read full article: ‘Close it up and go home’: Houston police shut down after-hours club on South GessnerHouston police shut down the B Rabbit Nightclub on South Gessner after multiple complaints and criminal incidents, including drunk driving and shootings linked to the club. Despite being closed by the Fire Marshal in October for safety hazards, the club continued operating, leading to three arrests and the seizure of several items.
‘Eat Like a Local’ explores Jūn’s cultural fusion and Latuli’s coastal cuisine in Houston
Read full article: ‘Eat Like a Local’ explores Jūn’s cultural fusion and Latuli’s coastal cuisine in HoustonHouston’s restaurant scene is famously diverse making it sometimes hard to define our local cuisine. In this episode of “Eat Like a Local”, host Chris Shepherd checks out two restaurants that have captured the essence of Houston food - one through a refined, cultural lens, the other inspired by coastal culture and sourcing.
2 dead from Saturday morning vehicle fire on I-610
Read full article: 2 dead from Saturday morning vehicle fire on I-610A fatal vehicle fire occurred on I-610 near Mykawa Road in Houston early Saturday morning when a speeding white pickup truck crashed into freeway signage, igniting upon impact. Two passengers, both 18, died at the scene, while the driver was rescued by a passing Good Samaritan.
Victim services director for Crime Stoppers of Houston cites bond decisions in murder of 25-year-old woman
Read full article: Victim services director for Crime Stoppers of Houston cites bond decisions in murder of 25-year-old womanCharges have been filed against two teenagers accused in a deadly shooting aboard a Metro bus that killed a 25-year-old woman, raising new questions about bond decisions and court supervision in Harris County.
Texas Equusearch: There are more bayou bodies likely stuck in sunken cars
Read full article: Texas Equusearch: There are more bayou bodies likely stuck in sunken carsAnother body was found Tuesday in Buffalo Bayou downtown, adding to a growing number of human remains discovered in Houston’s waterways.
A new chapter begins: Jenna Bush Hager and Sheinelle Jones chat about their new pairing
Read full article: A new chapter begins: Jenna Bush Hager and Sheinelle Jones chat about their new pairingJenna Bush Hager and Sheinelle Jones call each other 'soul sisters' -- so it's no surprise they're the perfect pairing for the 4th hour of 'Today' on NBC. Ahead of their show premiere, they chatted with Houston Life co-host Derrick Shore to share more about their personal and professional connection, and why now is the timing that was meant to be.
Former radio personality, Sarah Pepper returns to Texas to emcee 2026 Chevron Houston Marathon
Read full article: Former radio personality, Sarah Pepper returns to Texas to emcee 2026 Chevron Houston MarathonHouston welcomed back a familiar voice, Sarah Pepper, to take on emcee duties for the 2026 Chevron Houston Marathon
Map: More than 200 Houston-area private schools approved for Texas voucher program
Read full article: Map: More than 200 Houston-area private schools approved for Texas voucher programMore than 200 private schools in the Houston area have been approved to participate in the Texas voucher program.
Former Harris County Judge Jon Lindsay, architect of county toll road system, dies
Read full article: Former Harris County Judge Jon Lindsay, architect of county toll road system, diesFormer Harris County Judge and Texas state senator Jon Lindsay has died, according to a statement released by a former colleague, Commissioner Rodney Ellis.
2 people shot after argument during t-shirt sale escalates into gunfire in SW Houston
Read full article: 2 people shot after argument during t-shirt sale escalates into gunfire in SW HoustonTwo people were shot Friday after an argument during the sale of a t-shirt escalated into gunshots at an address in southwest Houston.
Shop The Sale Houston with proceeds benefitting childhood cancer research
Read full article: Shop The Sale Houston with proceeds benefitting childhood cancer researchThe exciting 3-day shopping experience features 50 of Houston’s premier boutiques at one location with dramatically discounted merchandise.
Vandal captured on video breaking Pride flags, throwing them on ground at Houston’s Montrose Center
Read full article: Vandal captured on video breaking Pride flags, throwing them on ground at Houston’s Montrose CenterA report has been filed to Houston Police Department after an unknown person was captured on video vandalizing Pride flags outside of Houston’s Montrose Center.
7 charged in Houston gun trafficking case tied to North Korea, prosecutors say
Read full article: 7 charged in Houston gun trafficking case tied to North Korea, prosecutors sayFederal prosecutors say seven people were charged in a Houston firearms trafficking case involving straw purchasers and about 170 guns.
Houston Chick-fil-A restaurant evacuated after man holding bladed objects refuses to come off roof
Read full article: Houston Chick-fil-A restaurant evacuated after man holding bladed objects refuses to come off roofA Chick-fil-A along the Katy Freeway had to evacuate its customers after a man holding two bladed objects refused to climb down from the restaurant’s roof.
Man in custody after car chase with deputies ends in multi-vehicle crash in northwest Harris County
Read full article: Man in custody after car chase with deputies ends in multi-vehicle crash in northwest Harris CountyHarris County deputies brought an evading pursuit to an end Friday morning after a suspect crashed into multiple vehicles in Spring.
Flu season is here: Doctors urge vaccination though parents decline
Read full article: Flu season is here: Doctors urge vaccination though parents declineClinics, urgent cares, and emergency rooms are seeing more cases this season, and health experts say it’s shaping up to be one of the heavier flu years in recent memory.
Chase erupts after north Houston traffic stop, minivan goes up in flames
Read full article: Chase erupts after north Houston traffic stop, minivan goes up in flamesA traffic stop turned into a chase that ended with two people being arrested and a minivan blowing up in flames Friday morning.
Harris County officials push back after Gov. Greg Abbott calls for state takeover of elections
Read full article: Harris County officials push back after Gov. Greg Abbott calls for state takeover of electionsHarris County officials push back after Governor Greg Abbott calls for the state to take over local elections, citing security measures and transparency as they prepare for upcoming elections, including the midterms.
Hundreds protest ICE in Galleria after fatal shooting of woman in Minnesota
Read full article: Hundreds protest ICE in Galleria after fatal shooting of woman in MinnesotaHundreds of people gathered near Post Oak and Westheimer in the Galleria-area of Houston Thursday night to protest against ICE after the fatal shooting of a woman in Minnesota.
Governor Greg Abbott speaks to 2 Investigates on order to probe potential childcare fraud
Read full article: Governor Greg Abbott speaks to 2 Investigates on order to probe potential childcare fraudDuring the event, Abbott spoke with 2 Investigates about an investigation he publicly launched Monday into potential fraud among childcare providers in Texas.
Community vigil in response to fatal shooting of woman in Minnesota underway
Read full article: Community vigil in response to fatal shooting of woman in Minnesota underwayState Representative Christina Morales will be holding a community vigil Thursday in response to the recent fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good in Minnesota during an ICE operation.
Belle comes to Houston - Kyra Belle Johnson stars in Disney’s ‘Beauty and the Beast’ now at the Hobby Center
Read full article: Belle comes to Houston - Kyra Belle Johnson stars in Disney’s ‘Beauty and the Beast’ now at the Hobby CenterBe our guest! Kyra Belle Johnson — Texas State alum and national tour lead — stars as Belle in Disney classic on stage now in Houston.
‘Ding-dong ditch’ murder suspect may face capital murder, bond reduction denied
Read full article: ‘Ding-dong ditch’ murder suspect may face capital murder, bond reduction deniedGonzalo Leon, the Houston man accused of fatally shooting 11-year-old Julian Guzman during a ding-dong-ditch prank, appeared before Harris County District Judge Emily DeToto on Thursday, where his request for a reduced bond was denied.
Man accused of robbing 84-year-old at FM 1960 red light identified by cell phone left behind at the crime scene
Read full article: Man accused of robbing 84-year-old at FM 1960 red light identified by cell phone left behind at the crime sceneA 27-year-old convicted felon is wanted for aggravated robbery after he allegedly got into an 84-year-old man’s vehicle while stopped at a red light on FM 1960 and demanded money, according to records.
‘Sweet victory’ at stake in Hidalgo’s Texans playoff wager against Pennsylvania county executive
Read full article: ‘Sweet victory’ at stake in Hidalgo’s Texans playoff wager against Pennsylvania county executiveHarris County Judge Lina Hidalgo has made a friendly wager with a Pennsylvania county executive ahead of the Texans’ Wild Card matchup against the Steelers with merch, bragging rights, and county pride on the line.
Mathew Knowles launches new Destiny’s Child nationwide tribute tour; Houston is first stop
Read full article: Mathew Knowles launches new Destiny’s Child nationwide tribute tour; Houston is first stopAuthor, businessman, record executive and music manager Mathew Knowles knows a thing or two about success. He's best known as the creator and cultivator of Destiny's Child -- and proud dad of Beyoncé and Solange. Now, he's launching 'Destiny's Child: Iconic Reimagined Tour' -- a nationwide tour premiering in Houston and then continuing to more than 40 cities. It's a chance to experience some of your favorite hits in a totally new way: with a live string quartet playing in the glow of thousands of candles. Watch the full interview to learn more about the tour, plus personal stories from Mr. Knowles about his famous, talented family.
Nevada man speaks out after Houston restaurant worker accused of using his identity in bathroom recording case
Read full article: Nevada man speaks out after Houston restaurant worker accused of using his identity in bathroom recording caseA recently retired Nevada man is sharing his perspective after police say a Houston restaurant worker allegedly used his Social Security number to get a job.
Harris County Commissioners appoint interim county attorney amid Menefee’s congressional runoff
Read full article: Harris County Commissioners appoint interim county attorney amid Menefee’s congressional runoffHarris County Commissioners unanimously voted to appoint Jonathan Fombonne as interim county attorney on Thursday, following Christian Menefee’s advancement to a runoff in the special election for Texas’s 18th Congressional District.
Employee charged with invasive recording in Lupe Tortilla bathroom faces new charge related to stolen identity
Read full article: Employee charged with invasive recording in Lupe Tortilla bathroom faces new charge related to stolen identityA Houston-area restaurant employee is facing a felony charge after investigators say a hidden camera was discovered inside a Lupe Tortilla bathroom and captured video of customers, including a child.
Taste Houston’s best with 5 must-have cookbooks from local chefs and restaurateurs
Read full article: Taste Houston’s best with 5 must-have cookbooks from local chefs and restaurateursHouston’s vibrant culinary scene is captured beautifully in five cookbooks by some of the city’s most celebrated chefs and restaurateurs. These cookbooks offer a delicious way to bring Houston’s diverse flavors into your kitchen, whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out. (KPRC 2 is part of the Amazon Associates program and receives a commission on qualified purchases made through our links.)
How Texans rookie Alijah Huzzie completed comeback from torn ACL to first NFL interception: ‘Just being patient’
Read full article: How Texans rookie Alijah Huzzie completed comeback from torn ACL to first NFL interception: ‘Just being patient’Texans rookie Alijah Huzzie capitalized on opportunity with first NFL interception
2 suspects in custody after deadly shooting on METRO bus that left woman dead, teen injured
Read full article: 2 suspects in custody after deadly shooting on METRO bus that left woman dead, teen injuredHouston police released surveillance photos of two men wanted in connection with the deadly shooting of a woman and the injury of a teenage boy on a METRO bus on Wednesday afternoon.
RodeoHouston takes over Times Square with surprise concert before tonight’s lineup reveal
Read full article: RodeoHouston takes over Times Square with surprise concert before tonight’s lineup revealRodeoHouston took over New York City’s Times Square on Wednesday afternoon in a surprise pop-up concert to reveal one of its artists for this year’s entertainment lineup.
Armed robbery reported at UH’s TDECU credit union for second time since October
Read full article: Armed robbery reported at UH’s TDECU credit union for second time since OctoberThe man allegedly entered the credit union while brandishing the handgun and demanded money. He was last seen running south toward the METRO platform at MLK and Wheeler.
Houston Mayor says report linking city to over 5,000 ICE deportations untrue, says HPD involved in 74 cases
Read full article: Houston Mayor says report linking city to over 5,000 ICE deportations untrue, says HPD involved in 74 casesHouston Mayor John Whitmire sat down with 2 Investigates first on Wednesday morning to discuss reports that left Houstonians questioning whether the Houston Police Department played a role in referring thousands of individuals to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for arrests.
Houston City Council approves using $30 million in flood money to demolish buildings
Read full article: Houston City Council approves using $30 million in flood money to demolish buildingsA north Houston homeowner says she’s frustrated and disappointed after Houston City Council approved a plan that will use stormwater money to tear down abandoned buildings instead of funding drainage projects.
The story behind Luke’s Plumbing and Air Conditioning serving Houstonians since 1991
Read full article: The story behind Luke’s Plumbing and Air Conditioning serving Houstonians since 1991Family-owned Luke’s Plumbing and Air Conditioning has helped Houston homes since 1991. Meet the team and their pup, Tupelo.
Houston-area midwife accused in abortion case missed payments for court-ordered GPS monitor
Read full article: Houston-area midwife accused in abortion case missed payments for court-ordered GPS monitorA Houston-area midwife facing felony charges in a historic Texas abortion case has fallen behind on payments for a court-ordered GPS monitor, according to proceedings in Waller County District Court. Defense attorneys say the monthly cost has been difficult to afford while the case remains pending.
Houston Pride moves festival and parade to early June for the first time in nearly 50 years due to FIFA World Cup events
Read full article: Houston Pride moves festival and parade to early June for the first time in nearly 50 years due to FIFA World Cup eventsHouston’s Pride Festival and Parade is making history by moving to Saturday, June 6, 2026, for the first time in nearly 50 years. The change, due to FIFA World Cup events later in June, kicks off a month-long celebration of diversity, advocacy, and community.
Brace yourself, the 1993 Oilers vs. Bills game is featured in new docuseries ‘Don’t Call it a Comeback’
Read full article: Brace yourself, the 1993 Oilers vs. Bills game is featured in new docuseries ‘Don’t Call it a Comeback’A new docuseries showcases the comebacks that define legacies. The season actually kicks off, Derrick, with the painful 1993 game between the Oilers and Buffalo Bills. We'll chat with Vice TV's Peter Gaffney on why he had to include one of the greatest NFL comebacks in history.
Search underway for man accused of fatally shooting woman, injuring man on Houston METRO bus
Read full article: Search underway for man accused of fatally shooting woman, injuring man on Houston METRO busPolice are actively searching for a man who they say boarded a METRO bus and shot a woman in the head before fleeing. The woman later died.
Applications open: What to know about Harris County Annual Ballot by Mail
Read full article: Applications open: What to know about Harris County Annual Ballot by MailThe Harris County Clerk’s Office is reminding eligible voters who are 65 years of age or older, or who have a disability, that they can now submit a single Ballot by Mail application to request ballots for all 2026 elections.
Baytown high school stabbing suspect licked fingers, smiled after alleged murder on campus, investigator says
Read full article: Baytown high school stabbing suspect licked fingers, smiled after alleged murder on campus, investigator saysA Harris County judge on Monday denied bond for 18-year-old Aundre Matthews, the student accused of fatally stabbing his classmate and friend, Andrew Meismer, at Ross S. Sterling High School.
Notorious tailgate theft suspect arrested after weeks on the run, linked to $20K theft spree in NW Harris County
Read full article: Notorious tailgate theft suspect arrested after weeks on the run, linked to $20K theft spree in NW Harris CountyAfter weeks on the run, Harris County Constable Precinct 4 officials confirmed to KPRC 2 that Samuel Worthy, 19, was in custody.
Lawsuit filed against H-E-B, others after 4 Houston-area women killed in 18-wheeler crash
Read full article: Lawsuit filed against H-E-B, others after 4 Houston-area women killed in 18-wheeler crashA wrongful death lawsuit has been filed against H-E-B and its contracted trucking companies after an 18-wheeler struck a car on US Highway 87, killing four women from Houston.
TxDOT updates I-45 North Houston project with rescheduled closures and detours
Read full article: TxDOT updates I-45 North Houston project with rescheduled closures and detoursTxDOT has released new updates on the progress of the I-45 North Houston Highway Improvement Project and its impact on Houston-area roadways.
Driving in Houston? Expect increased police presence on these 3 roadways
Read full article: Driving in Houston? Expect increased police presence on these 3 roadwaysIn a new video shared by the Houston Police Department and Mayor John Whitmire, city officials announced a stepped-up law enforcement effort aimed at improving safety on Houston’s roadways.
Owner of stolen military-style truck in hour-long chase says vehicle was meant to help people without power
Read full article: Owner of stolen military-style truck in hour-long chase says vehicle was meant to help people without powerFor 65 minutes, a massive military-style truck turned Houston’s roads into a warzone.
By the numbers: FBI Houston 2025 in review
Read full article: By the numbers: FBI Houston 2025 in reviewFBI Houston had a busy year in 2025, starting off the first day of the year by investigating the New Orleans terror attack, enduring the longest federal government shutdown while protecting the community along with the Texas Gulf Coast.
Houston bagel pros talk schmear, slices and specials ahead of National Bagel Day
Read full article: Houston bagel pros talk schmear, slices and specials ahead of National Bagel DayThe New York Deli & Coffee Shop and Bagel Shop Bakery have been serving authentic, New York-style bagels and deli meals to several generations of the Houston community for over 50 years.
Chevron Houston Marathon 2026: Full list of road closures, maps and detours
Read full article: Chevron Houston Marathon 2026: Full list of road closures, maps and detoursDriving in Houston this marathon weekend? Check major street and highway closures, IH-69 shutdowns, neighborhood access routes, parking options and METRO tips.
With federal subsidies gone, Americans face higher healthcare premiums or the risk of losing coverage
Read full article: With federal subsidies gone, Americans face higher healthcare premiums or the risk of losing coverageAs the clock struck midnight, it brought in a new year but also ushered out a critical lifeline of affordability for many dependent on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) health insurance.
‘We heard arguing’: Apartment neighbor recounts events before Texas A&M student Brianna Aguilera fell from high-rise
Read full article: ‘We heard arguing’: Apartment neighbor recounts events before Texas A&M student Brianna Aguilera fell from high-riseHouston attorney Tony Buzbee held a press conference Tuesday to present new witness information and raise fresh questions about the death of Brianna Aguilera, a Texas A&M student who fell from a high-rise apartment in Austin following the A&M–Texas rivalry football game.
Medical license temporarily suspended for Sugar Land plastic surgeon accused of performing surgery while intoxicated
Read full article: Medical license temporarily suspended for Sugar Land plastic surgeon accused of performing surgery while intoxicatedA Sugar Land plastic surgeon has been indicted for allegedly performing surgery while intoxicated, according to the Sugar Land Police Department.
Dry January in Houston: Where to find mocktails, zero-proof beer and free-spirit cocktails
Read full article: Dry January in Houston: Where to find mocktails, zero-proof beer and free-spirit cocktailsOur Houston Dry January guide rounds up bars and restaurants pouring mocktails, zero-proof cocktails and nonalcoholic beer across the city, from steakhouses and ramen shops to neighborhood lounges and hotel bars.
Houston police recover 86 trafficking victims, more than half juveniles, officials warn
Read full article: Houston police recover 86 trafficking victims, more than half juveniles, officials warnHouston leaders gather at Children’s Assessment Center to raise awareness about human trafficking. KPRC 2 will livestream the 9 a.m. press conference.
Houston energy leaders watching Venezuela developments closely as questions swirl about jobs
Read full article: Houston energy leaders watching Venezuela developments closely as questions swirl about jobsIndustry leaders say what happens overseas can influence hiring decisions at home, even if changes don’t come quickly.