THE BRIEF | 2025 TEXAS LEGISLATIVE SESSION RECAP

The 89th Texas Legislature concluded its session on June 2, 2025, marking a period of significant legislative activity that directly impacts Cedar Park's business community. With a $24 billion surplus, lawmakers passed a $338 billion two-year budget, addressing priorities from education and infrastructure to local governance and economic development.

 

 

 

The Legislature approved a $1 billion school voucher program, allowing families to use state funds for private education expenses. At the same time, an $8.5 billion boost was allocated to public schools for salaries, special education, and campus safety. While this dual-track approach represents a legislative compromise, the Cedar Park Chamber was opposed to voucher programs that divert public funds from local public schools.

 

Senate Bill 37 restructured university governance, giving greater authority to regents and expanding state-level oversight of curricula and hiring. This has drawn concern from education advocates but reflects a broader state focus on reshaping higher education with a political lens.

 

 

 

Lawmakers directed a significant portion of the budget surplus toward property tax cuts, offering relief to both businesses and homeowners. This move is generally aligned with the Chamber’s goal of reducing operational costs for local enterprises.

 

The state approved substantial investments in water infrastructure and road expansion projects. These investments are critical for sustaining population growth and business activity in fast-growing regions like Cedar Park.

 

 

 

Legislation banning consumable THC products passed both chambers and awaits the Governor’s decision. While framed as a public health measure, the bill has raised concerns about its economic impact on hemp-based businesses across Texas.

 

The Legislature approved an expansion of the medical marijuana program to include chronic pain sufferers. The update also increases the allowable dosage and the number of licensed dispensaries in the state, which may support additional healthcare and wellness business growth.

 

 

 

 

• Abbott’s top priorities—school vouchers, public safety, and property tax relief—were all advanced during the session.

• He secured a major legislative win with the passage of the school voucher program, despite strong pushback from rural and urban public school advocates.

• Abbott also pushed for and achieved sweeping property tax reductions, framing it as essential for business growth and family affordability.

 

• Patrick focused heavily on cultural and social legislation, including a mandate for the display of the Ten Commandments in public schools and a ban on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in higher education.

• He was a major proponent of the consumable THC product ban, continuing his emphasis on conservative social priorities.

 

• In his first session as Speaker, Burrows led the House in passing more than 1,200 bills, many reflecting Republican priorities in education reform, tax policy, and state governance.

• His leadership emphasized legislative efficiency and strengthened House influence in budget negotiations.

 

 

 

 

Several legislative outcomes support the Cedar Park Chamber’s 2025 priorities:

• Economic Development: Investments in infrastructure and the continuation of pro-business tax policies support job creation and corporate expansion efforts in Cedar Park.

• Education and Workforce: Increased funding for public schools and training initiatives aligns with the Chamber’s focus on workforce readiness, though the passage of school vouchers remains a point of concern.

• Local Control and Governance: The Chamber will continue to monitor and push back against any legislative efforts that limit municipal autonomy. While this session maintained some local authority, expanded state oversight in areas like education could present future challenges.

 

As we look ahead, the Cedar Park Chamber remains steadfast in its mission to advocate for pro-business policies, protect local control, and ensure that our community remains a top destination for economic growth and innovation. While this legislative session delivered a mix of progress and ongoing challenges, our commitment to representing the interests of Cedar Park’s business community has never been stronger. We will continue to work with local, state, and federal leaders to advance priorities that foster a vibrant economy, a well-prepared workforce, and a high quality of life for all who live and work in Cedar Park.

 

Thank you for your continued support for all of our programs!