Policy Matters!
Thank you to everyone who joined us at the 2025 Policy Conference. The event was a tremendous success, bringing together an incredible group of leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss key issues and opportunities for Texas. We kicked things off the evening before with a welcome reception at the historic Stephen F. Austin Hotel, where it was great to catch up with so many of you and set the tone for a successful conference.
The next day featured a robust lineup of keynote speakers.?Nicole Nosek, Chair and Founder of Texans for Reasonable Solutions, shared a compelling vision for attainable housing.?Adriana Cruz, Executive Director of Texas Economic Development & Tourism, provided an in-depth look at the state’s economic outlook, highlighting the growth opportunities that put Texas ahead of the curve.?Joe Lonsdale, Managing Partner of 8VC and Co-Founder of Palantir, delivered a fireside chat on “The Texas Advantage,” underscoring why our state continues to draw talent and innovation.
Our panels dug into some of the most pressing issues facing Texas. A lively discussion on innovation in AI and technology, expertly moderated by?Caroline Joiner?with Amazon, featured insights from?Ari Lehavi,?Alex Zekoff,?Norman Garza Jr.,?Representative Giovanni Capriglione, and?Representative Oscar Longoria, all of whom emphasized how Texas can stay at the forefront of emerging tech.?Senator Kelly Hancock?and?David Dross?from Mercer led an engaging conversation on practical strategies to expand access to healthcare and lower costs.?Gabriela Perdichizzi?did a fantastic job moderating the third panel on Texas’ global economic impact, with?Ariane Marion,?Ray Martinez,?Aaron Demerson, and?Representative Richard Raymond?sharing valuable perspectives on what it takes for Texas to remain a global powerhouse. Finally,?Senators Charles Perry?and?Nathan Johnson?joined?Katharine McAden?with Google for a forward-thinking discussion on securing our state’s energy future.
Thank you again for joining us at the Policy Conference and for your continued support. With the 89th Texas Legislative Session now underway, our state stands on solid ground—featuring a $24 billion surplus, a thriving economy, and record-breaking momentum. We look forward to working with Governor Greg Abbott, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, Speaker Dustin Burrows, our legislators, and our members to champion policies that keep Texas the best state for business and a leader in opportunity and prosperity.
As always, TAB remains committed to advocating for policies that foster economic growth and prosperity for all Texans. I look forward to continuing our work together and wish everyone a wonderful week ahead.
Senate Committee Appointments
Last week, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick announced Senate committee appointments for the 89th Legislative Session, including the newly formed Senate Committee on Economic Development. We look forward to working with this new committee on initiatives that keep our state at the forefront of economic growth.
Quick Hits
Help Shape the Future of Water Infrastructure
Texas is a beacon for growth, but with that growth comes challenges. According to the 2022 State Water Plan and U.S. EPA data, the state needs at least $154 billion over the next 50 years in water supply projects and infrastructure upgrades to meet rising demands. Without action, Texas could face a loss of one million jobs and $192 billion in economic impact.
TAB is leading the effort to engage chambers across the state on this issue. If water funding is an issue important to your chamber, please consider filling out the below form to indicate support for this important initiative. We are looking forward to working together to advocate for sustainable water infrastructure solutions.