Texas continues to experience economic growth and legislative activity as the 89th Legislature's regular session progresses. Governor Greg Abbott recently delivered his 2025 State of the State address, emphasizing property tax relief, border security, and economic development as key priorities. The governor called for at least $10 billion in new property tax relief and proposed a ban on local taxing authorities raising property taxes without two-thirds voter approval.

In economic news, the Texas economy is showing signs of continued expansion, albeit at a more moderate pace compared to 2024. Comerica Bank's 2025 Texas State Economic Outlook projects that the state's growth will outpace the national average, with the energy industry remaining a bright spot due to ongoing geopolitical tensions keeping oil prices elevated.

The Texas legislature is considering several significant bills, including measures to revise voting location requirements and address food insecurity. Senate Bill 985 aims to modify a 2023 law that increased the minimum number of voting locations, as county election officials have reported difficulties in compliance. Additionally, lawmakers are reviewing over a dozen bills to tackle Texas' food deserts and assist organizations like the Edinburg facility in addressing food insecurity.

On the environmental front, Texas faced extreme weather conditions in early March, with intense winds, critical fire weather, and blowing dust affecting much of the state. The National Weather Service reported wind gusts of 60 to 70 mph across the region, causing some damage to trees, power lines, and roofs. Despite these challenges, limited precipitation helped suppress the overall fire threat in some areas.

Looking ahead, Texas continues to grapple with various challenges and opportunities. The state's response to changing economic conditions, ongoing legislative debates, and environmental concerns will shape its trajectory in the coming months. Key developments to watch include the progress of property tax relief measures, the implementation of border security initiatives, and the state's adaptation to evolving weather patterns and natural resource management needs.