By McAllen Chamber of Commerce
City officials, stakeholders and community members attended the sold out 88th Texas Legislative Session Wrap-Up Luncheon last Thursday at Embassy Suites by Hilton McAllen.
Speakers included Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, Representative Bobby Guerra, Representative Sergio Muñoz, Jr., and Representative Ryan Guillen who gave updates on the proceedings of the latest session. McAllen Chamber Board Member and Government Affairs Council Chairman Dr. Fred Farias emceed the event. The discussion was moderated by McAllen Chamber Chairman-Elect and former McAllen Mayor Jim Darling.
The event was hosted by the Chamber’s GAC and sponsored by the City of McAllen, Boggus Ford McAllen, South Texas Health System, Ruby Red Hospitality, and IBC Bank.
Several topics were on the agenda, including state infrastructure, transportation, and education. Elected officials emphasized and shared the commitment of each representative to the Rio Grande Valley and their collaborative efforts as a unified region at the state level.
The conversation led by Darling revolved around the local educational landscape. Specifically, it delved into the potential impact of school vouchers on our region, the dynamics of property taxes, the nuances of economic development, and the challenge of accurately representing our area despite being portrayed as a dangerous landscape.
Officials also spoke about the record breaking $32.7 billion budget approved for Texas which will fund numerous projects including mental health, state parks, education, broadband, water infrastructure and more.
To receive a copy of the Chamber’s 88th Legislative Session Report or for more information regarding the McAllen Chamber Government Affairs Council, please contact Director of Public Policy and Government Affairs Gerry Garcia at (956) 682-2871 or email ggarcia@mcallenchamber.com.
