Columns

Body A year ago, the economy had begun to stabilize after two months of cataclysmic decline due to COVID-19 and the massive response. Almost overnight, millions of jobs disappeared, and an economy in the midst of a record-shattering expansion suddenly went into free fall.

Body There were times in the last year or so that I thought we were really having to sacrifice due to what was going on around us with the pandemic. Businesses closed down, no travel, difficult to find what you needed for your home.

Body Calm down! Recent inflation reports have caused alarm and, frankly, overreaction. The overall Consumer Price Index increased again in May, bringing the rate over the last 12 months to 5.0%. It was the largest 12-month increase since a 5.

Body Over 20 years ago, the Texas Legislature passed the Texas Economic Development Act, which allows school districts to offer tax incentives for businesses that invest in their communities.

Body Two years! That’s the Chamber work anniversary I’m celebrating today. It certainly has been full of unexpected twists and turns thanks to COVID. I joke with my coworkers and our board members that I’m a redshirt freshman.

Body The recent legislative session will not soon be forgotten. The focus was perpetually on anything but initiatives required to move Texas forward. Some high profile measures stalled but will no doubt resurface; others passed.

Body The Texas Legislature sent a $248 billion two-year state budget to Gov. Greg Abbott after the House approved the measure last Thursday. The 140-day legislative session ended at midnight May 31. Senate Bill 1 is $13.

Body With COVID-19 cases continuing to fall and vaccination rates rising, things are beginning to feel a bit more normal. The economy is growing, and the outlook remains positive as the health crisis abates.

Body Texas recently opted out of federal unemployment compensation related to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the $300 weekly supplement.

Body Results from the 2020 Census are beginning to surface. These statistics are far more than a matter of interest. Not only is the number of representatives in the U.S. House tied to the count, but also funds from a variety of federal programs.