In a presidential election year like 2024, the November general election is likely to dominate headlines throughout the year. However, several other important public policy issues are on the horizon in the new year, from local and state to federal items that might impact the Fort Worth business community. Here’s a rundown of some things to watch in 2024.
Elections
The election season will kick off on March 5 with the Primary Election. View an overview of the contested races here. The primary election will determine the nominees on the ballot for the November 5 General Election. The deadline to register to vote in the primaries is February 5.
In addition, local non-county political subdivisions (municipalities, school districts, etc.) across Tarrant County will hold their elections on Saturday, May 4.
Interim Charges
The Texas Legislature is constitutionally required to meet for 140 days every other year but, in 2023, it also convened for four additional special sessions. Without any scheduled sessions in 2024, the Texas Legislature will convene for interim committee hearings on emerging issues that require further study ahead of the 89th Legislature, convening in January 2025. The policy issues studied during the interim will foreshadow which issues could become priorities of key legislators during the 89th Legislature. The charges are typically announced in the spring, with reports finalized in the fall.
Federal Rules
A final rule is expected to be issued by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) related to credit card late fees. The CFPB’s proposed rule would substantially reduce credit card late fees. There is industry concern that such a change would shift collection costs to those who pay their credit card bills on time. For small businesses and consumers who use credit cards and pay their bills on time, this rule is worth monitoring.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is expected to issue a final rule that would nearly totally ban the use of non-compete agreements in the United States. The Fort Worth Chamber filed a comment on the proposed rule, outlining three main concerns: non-compete agreements are regulated at the state level, the FTC lacks the authority to issue such a rule, and non-compete agreements can be an effective and helpful tool for both businesses and their employees.
Make Your Voice Heard
The North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG), the regional planning organization for Dallas-Fort Worth, is seeking public input on ways to improve air quality, protect public health, and address extreme weather events. This feedback will be incorporated into the Dallas-Fort Worth Air Quality Improvement Plan (AQIP) developed by NCTCOG and local governments. Learn more about the NCTCOG Dallas-Fort Worth Air Quality Improvement Plan and make your voice heard by responding to the survey linked here.
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