Texas lawmakers will return to Austin in January 2027. Their decisions will shape jobs, infrastructure and the state’s ability to compete for years.
The Greater Houston Partnership has set its agenda for the 90th Texas Legislature around the conditions businesses need to invest, grow and create opportunity. The priorities reflect greater Houston’s role in energy, trade, manufacturing, health care, aerospace and innovation. Houston’s success supports Texas’ success.
Developing the Workforce Texas Needs
Talent is a key long-term issue for employers. The legislative agenda starts with the front end of the workforce pipeline: early childhood education.
Affordable, high-quality care helps more parents stay in the workforce. Strong early learning also improves kindergarten readiness and future academic outcomes.
The Partnership supports a transparent and accountable public education system focused on student outcomes. It also supports effective investments that preserve high-impact programs. Schools should prepare students for college, careers and economic mobility.
Programs shaped by industry input can help close skills gaps and connect more Texans to high-quality careers.
Protecting the Infrastructure That Powers Growth
Greater Houston’s infrastructure supports business and economic activity across Texas. The Houston Port region connects Texas businesses to global markets and supports more than 1.5 million jobs statewide. Maintaining that role will require continued investment in freight corridors, maritime infrastructure and transportation links serving the port and Houston Ship Channel.
The region’s economic strength also depends on resilient critical systems. Power, communication and transportation networks, healthcare, emergency response, flood mitigation infrastructure, and water systems must be able to withstand disruption and recover quickly. Investments in these systems protect communities, reduce business interruption and strengthen confidence among employers and investors.
State support plays an important role in advancing this work. During the 2025 legislative session, regional leaders secured more than $265 million for water infrastructure, flood mitigation and related projects. The Partnership will continue working with local and state leaders to pursue targeted investments that address aging infrastructure, accommodate growth and protect assets that serve millions of Texans and support key industries.
Working Together for Texas’ Future
The Partnership will also work with coalition partners. Issues include coastal protection, the space economy, homelessness, property taxes, public finance and Texas’ economic development tools.
Throughout the session, the Partnership will focus on business impact, measurable outcomes and practical solutions. It will keep members informed and work with regional partners and state leaders across Texas.
Stronger workforce, infrastructure and resilience systems can help greater Houston and Texas remain competitive places to build a business and a future.
Learn more about the Partnership’s 2027 legislative priorities at houston.org/txlege.