Co-author: Adam Leggett, Director of Government Affairs, GRPR

As the Texas legislative session approaches, kicking off on January 14, construction companies across the Lone Star State need to start gearing up for their advocacy efforts. Early engagement is not just beneficial—it’s crucial for maximizing your impact in the Capitol and shaping policies that affect your industry.

The construction industry faces unique challenges and opportunities in the legislative arena. From infrastructure spending to workforce development, the decisions made in Austin can have far-reaching effects on your business. With the right approach and expert guidance, your company can play a significant role in influencing these decisions.

The Power of Early Engagement

Getting an early start on your legislative strategy offers numerous advantages:

1. Voice in Key Discussions: By engaging early, you ensure your company’s voice is heard in critical discussions and decisions both leading up to and throughout the legislative session. This is particularly important for construction companies, as legislation can significantly impact building codes, labor laws and contract regulations. Early involvement allows you to shape the conversation from the outset, rather than reacting to proposals after they’ve gained momentum.
2. Building Strategic Relationships: Early engagement allows you to establish trusted connections with the decision-makers who matter most. These relationships can be invaluable when it comes to influencing construction-related legislation. Legislators and their staff are more likely to seek your input on relevant issues if they’ve had positive interactions with you well before the session begins.
3. Identifying Potential Roadblocks: Starting early gives you the opportunity to identify potential opposition or challenges in advance. This foresight allows you to develop strategies to overcome these obstacles before they become insurmountable. You can anticipate counterarguments and prepare compelling responses, strengthening your position on key issues.
4. Forming Powerful Alliances: Early involvement helps you identify additional allies in the construction industry and beyond. This can lead to increased support, stronger coalitions and new paths to legislative success. By joining forces with like-minded organizations, you can amplify your message and demonstrate broad support for your priorities.

Potential Issues for Next Session

While property tax relief will remain a major topic during the next session, construction industry stakeholders can also expect debate over (i) funding and building water systems and groundwater infrastructure, (ii) alleviating congested roadways by planning future infrastructure developments, (iii) evaluating municipal management districts and tax increment reinvestment zones, (iv) examining factors affecting housing affordability and development, and (v) focusing on workforce development initiatives and increasing educational opportunities in skilled trade programs. 

The Bottom Line

The most successful businesses in the legislative arena are those that plan ahead. By starting your advocacy efforts now, your construction company can play a pivotal role in shaping the laws and regulations that will govern your industry for years to come.

Don’t let the opportunity to influence Texas’ construction landscape pass you by. Engage early, engage often, and make your voice heard in the Capitol and the regulatory agencies. The future of your business—and the entire Texas construction industry—may depend on it.