The 2025 Texas Legislative Session is now in the books—and thanks to the steadfast leadership of our Coastal Bend delegation, we’re walking away with major wins that will move our region forward for years to come.

We owe a sincere thank you to Senator Chuy Hinojosa, Senator Adam Hinojosa, Representative Todd Hunter, and Representative Denise Villalobos. Their commitment to protecting our coast, supporting local business, and championing smart infrastructure made a real difference this session.

💧 Water Infrastructure Got a Boost
From expanding access to water assistance programs (SB 971) to modernizing oversight and financing (SB 7), our delegation delivered thoughtful solutions to long-standing water needs. These changes will help ensure that both rural and urban communities across South Texas have a more reliable path forward.

🌀 Windstorm Insurance Reform Became Reality
Coastal Texans have been asking for years—and this year, they were finally heard. With reforms to board governance (HB 2213), fairer premium structures (HB 2517, HB 2518), and stronger funding mechanisms (HB 3689), our delegation gave windstorm coverage a meaningful update.

🦪 Tourism, Oysters & Film All Got Love
The passage of HB 3486 and HB 3487 creates sales tax incentives for restaurants that source Texas oysters or participate in shell recycling—two bills that support both local economies and coastal sustainability. Meanwhile, the rebooted film incentive program (SB 22) and PFZ updates (HB 2313) will bring more dollars and attention to the Coastal Bend.

⚙️ Industry & Trade Infrastructure Was Prioritized
Our ports matter—and so do the industries that rely on them. Thanks to HB 3093 and SB 1939, we now have stronger tools for managing industrial tax protests and financing ship channel improvements—key steps in staying competitive.

⚡ Energy Innovation Moved Forward
From planning for large-scale electric infrastructure (SB 6) to laying the groundwork for advanced nuclear energy (HB 14), our leaders proved that they’re thinking not just about today’s economy—but tomorrow’s.

🛠️ Workforce Development Got a Win
With the passage of HB 11 and HB 5529, it will now be easier for professionals and military spouses to get licensed and get to work in Texas—supporting local employers and growing our talent pipeline.

⚖️ Regulatory Reform Became Smarter
SB 14 gives businesses more clarity and fairness in how state agencies adopt rules, reducing uncertainty and overreach.

In short: Our delegation showed up, stood strong, and fought for the Coastal Bend.

The United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce is proud to have worked alongside these leaders to advocate for solutions that matter. We thank them for their service, their accessibility, and their continued commitment to our region’s growth and resilience.

🔍 Looking Ahead: Special Session in July

As the regular session closed with significant achievements, Governor Abbott has called a Special Legislative Session beginning July 21. While our delegation delivered big wins—especially on water, windstorm protection, tourism, energy and workforce—the governor’s call signals unfinished business.

Among the agenda items are several bills related to hemp-derived THC regulation (SB 3), and additional measures concerning water project fees, property recording, trafficking defense, industrial permits, and judicial procedures. As these issues move to the forefront, we will once again rely on the commitment and leadership of Senators Chuy Hinojosa, Senator Adam Hinojosa, Representative Hunter and Representative Villalobos. Their advocacy has brought clarity and progress, and they’ll be essential in navigating this next round of policy decisions.

We remain grateful to our delegation—and ready to continue working with them during this upcoming Special Session. Let’s keep up the momentum for Corpus Christi and the Coastal Bend.