House Author: Representative Greg Bonnen (R-Friendswood) While initially missing a procedural deadline which would have caused the bill to fail, in an unlikely move, both chambers suspended the procedural rules to ensure the passage of House Bill 5 hours before the end of session. Responding directly to the shortcomings of the previous incentive program, the new plan puts in place strong transparency provisions, keeps companies accountable for promises made during the application process, treats schools fairly, and gives the tools necessary for the state to compete for and win new projects. House Bill 5, the Texas Jobs, Energy, Technology and Innovation Act, establishes a new, more transparent economic development tool for Texas that enables the state to continue to compete on a global scale for large-scale projects and bring investments to local communities. The Partnership also partnered with statewide business organizations to mobilize regional partners to support House Bill 5, resulting in the collection of over 250 signatures from chambers of commerce and economic development organizations across the state on a letter of support for the creation of a new program. Leading up to this session, a coalition of supporters conducted statewide polling, finding that Texans overwhelmingly support utilizing economic development tools to attract businesses. However, Texas often falls short on property taxes, and the lack of a new school property tax abatement program could cause it to fall behind other states in landing new businesses.Īfter the last session, when the Texas Legislature voted to sunset Chapter 313, the Partnership and other business organizations began working on its replacement. Texas has long been a national leader in securing large capital-intensive investments and attractive to businesses looking to relocate on nearly all measures companies consider.

After the expiration of the Chapter 313 economic development program last session, Texas was in need of a new school property tax abatement program as a competitive economic development tool. A state-wide economic development incentive program is critical to attracting businesses that invest in local communities and provide high-quality jobs.Makes the state attractive to emerging industries and ensures long-term competitiveness.Ensures a competitive business climate and fosters growth by developing a new, transparent, and accountable economic development program for Texas.Senate Sponsor: Senator Charles Schwertner (R-Georgetown) House Author: Representative Todd Hunter (R-Corpus Christi) While not all priorities made it over the finish line, the Partnership made great strides in advancing these key policy items during the 88th Texas Legislative Session.īelow are the Partnership’s Executive Priorities and listing of bills supported by the Partnership during the legislative session. The Legislature passed bills that will positively impact the region, including establishing a new economic development incentive program, increased investment in workforce development and higher-education funding, and prioritized flood mitigation dollars in the state’s budget. This year, the Partnership successfully advanced legislation to strengthen the region’s economy and provide opportunity for all. The agenda included four executive priorities – economic development, higher education funding, flood mitigation, and energy transition. Leading up to this session, the Partnership’s Board of Directors and Public Policy Steering Committee worked to develop a legislative agenda that addresses the most pressing issues facing the business community and the greater Houston region. During the 2023 Texas Legislative Session, the Greater Houston Partnership prioritized issues foundational to Houston’s strong, diverse economy.

Texas legislative session