I do not live in Texas, but the Texas legislature restricting access to healthcare and allowing citizens to sue providers affects because certain political parties will treat that as a template for laws across the country, including in my area.
The Florida legislature trying to ban books and discussion of topics once again sets precedent that will become attempted law in my area.
People need to be aware of these efforts to know what to look for in their community and to prepare to counter such efforts. Information spreads and strategies are organized. Waiting until something is in my local area before trying to respond is guaranteed to lose.
Even on a large scale, knowing about international conflict made me aware that I should stockpile Baltic Birch plywood before its price skyrocketed. Reading the news saved me hundreds of dollars.
Fundamentally, ignoring the news is a luxury afforded to those who benefit from the current power structure. If you are well off and white, yes, you can probably ignore the news. If a subset of the government is constantly trying to find ways to harass you, deny you the right to vote or get healthcare, you have to be aware of things to prepare for and effectively counter them.