January 9, 2024

The Fort Worth Chamber had the pleasure of hosting four Tarrant County state legislators before they head to Austin next week to kick off the 89^th legislative session to hear what their priorities are ahead of the busy lawmaking session and what policies they can expect that could impact the business environment. This is the first of the Fort Worth Chamber’s “Leaders in Government” series where we seek to bring together our elected policymakers with local business leaders to engage in dialogue and establish the framework for our advocacy.  

The session was moderated by Scott Orr of Fidelity and included Senator Kelly Hancock, Representative Nicole Collier, Representative Ramón Romero, Jr., and Representative-Elect John McQueeney. Over the course of an hour, there were three main takeaways that these legislators want you to know.  

First, the Tarrant County delegation shares a strong camaraderie and is focused on responsible governance. There’s emphasis from our lawmakers that continuing to invest in our infrastructure, health care, and education, improves our quality of life. Additionally, they expressed the importance of keeping a pulse on our workforce development and ways to improve our school system, including through partnerships with local colleges and universities.  

With Fort Worth being one of the fastest growing cities in the country, it’s vital that our community keep up with that growth to stay business-friendly and retain good-paying jobs. Legislators voiced the prominent role that infrastructure plays in keeping up with this rapid growth. From aging water infrastructure to maintaining roads, investment is needed in order to stay competitive with other cities and importantly, other states.  

Lastly, legislators invite you to call their offices, ask questions, request meetings, and stay engaged. It’s going to be a busy – and quick – 140 days filled with a variety of legislative measures and lawmakers want to hear from you.  

Thank you to Senator Kelly Hancock, Representative Nicole Collier, Representative Ramón Romero, Jr., and Representative-Elect John McQueeney for participating. A special thanks to our moderator, Scott Orr. Additionally, thank you to sponsors Fidelity, Kelly Hart, EECU, Tarrant County College, University of Texas at Arlington, Lockheed Martin, and The Rios Group.  

Federal 

• National Law Review – CTA Update: Beneficial Ownership Information Reports Once Again Voluntary 

• AP News - Biden issues ban on offshore oil and gas drilling in most federal waters. Trump vows to undo it 

State & Local 

• Fort Worth Report – Fort Worth’s Lockheed Martin lands $11.76B fighter jet contract from U.S. Navy 

• Fort Worth Report – Plans to redevelop former east Fort Worth golf course head to zoning commission 

• Texas Tribune – Ken Paxton kicks off tour to pressure Republicans to support David Cook for House Speaker 

• KERA – Taking over from Granger, Craig Goldman already knows his top priority in Washington 

• WFAA – Tarrant County Judge intends to run for re-election 

Upcoming Dates 

• February 10-11 – Tarrant County Days in Austin