ABC Texas Legislative Attendee Packet-6

Page 1


OCATE for the Merit Shop

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

AGENDA

TUESDAY, JANUARY 28, 2025

9:30 am – Registration

10:00 am - 11:00 am - ABC Texas Legislative Panel

A panel of legislators who are ABC Texas members will be speaking on the issues of the current legislative session

12:00 pm - 1:30 pm - Luncheon

Keynote speaker: Comptroller Glenn Hegar

2:00 pm - 3:00 pm - ABC Texas Lobby Team Panel

A panel of the ABC Texas Lobby Team that will be speaking on industry issues and our priorities

4:30 pm - 7:30 pm – Legislative Reception

This is an opportunity to network and speak with Texas Representatives, Senators, and their staff. All legislative offices will be invited.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29, 2025

7:30 am - 9:00 am – Legislative Conference Breakfast

Kickoff breakfast before ABC Texas members head to the capitol for their legislative meetings. Keynote speaker TBD.

10:00 am - 4:00 pm – Legislative Meetings (by chapter)

Join your chapter for your scheduled legislative meetings.

Construction issues?

We are your lawyer.

Since 1990, Andrews Myers has made construction law a core area of our business. Our attorneys work seamlessly within the wider, full-service firm to help our clients deliver successful projects and avoid disputes before they escalate. We work in partnership with our clients every single day to find innovative, cost-effective solutions in an increasingly complex business environment. Does your lawyer offer the same?

Let’s build a relationship.

MEET SPEAKERS the

The Honorable Jeff Barry

State Representative - HD 29

As a dedicated public servant, Jeff is committed to advocating for policies that prioritize economic growth, limited government, and the principles of free enterprise. A strong supporter of Texas’ construction industry, Jeff has consistently championed initiatives that protect the merit shop philosophy and empower businesses to succeed without undue regulation. His legislative priorities focus on creating opportunities for Texas workers and fostering an environment where businesses can thrive. Jeff brings a wealth of private-sector experience to his role, including years of leadership in business and community development. This background gives him a unique perspective on the challenges faced by Texas industries and equips him to craft effective solutions for a prosperous future. As a proud Texan, Jeff is deeply invested in the success of his district and the state as a whole. He resides in Denton County with his family, where he remains actively involved in his community.

The Honorable Jeff Leach

State Representative - HD 67

State Representative Jeff Leach represents House District 67 in Collin County and is serving his sixth term in the Texas Legislature. A dedicated conservative, he has worked to reduce property taxes, reform public education, and secure the state’s border. During the 88th legislative session, he led the largest property tax cut in Texas history and authored the constitutional amendment banning a state income tax.

Leach is currently serving his third term as Chairman of the House Committee on Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence and is also a member of the Committee on Criminal Jurisprudence. He has worked to improve Texas' judiciary, including securing a pay raise for judges, creating new courts, and implementing reforms to enhance access to justice. A Plano native, Leach earned his law degree from SMU and practices at Gray Reed & McGraw LLP. He has received numerous accolades, including being named a “Rising Star” by Texas Super Lawyers. Jeff and his wife Becky have three children and are active members of Cottonwood Creek Church.

MEET SPEAKERS the

dedication to the construction industry and the merit shop

BUILDING EXCELLENCE FOR 50 YEARS.

This year Austin Commercial celebrates 50 years of being is one of the largest, most diversified commercial builders Thank you for being apart of our journey making Austin, Austin www.austin-ind.com philosophy has earned him recognition as a key ally of ABC Texas and its members. In addition to his legislative work, Cody is a practicing attorney with a background in energy law, providing him with unique insight into the challenges and opportunities facing Texas industries. He holds a law degree and an undergraduate degree in accounting from Texas A&M University, where he developed his passion for leadership and community service. Cody is deeply committed to his community and resides in Brazoria County with his wife and children. He continues to champion policies that empower Texans and build a stronger future for the state.

Keep up with ABC on the go. ABC Action app is an advanced advocacy tool that enables members to become a vital part of ABC's grassroots advocacy efforts and allows you to make your voice heard.

MEET SPEAKERS the

roleintheTexasLegislature.Shehasbeenasteadfastsupporter offreeenterpriseprinciplesandhasworkedtirelesslyto advancepoliciesthatreduceunnecessaryregulations,lowertaxes,andstrengthenthestate’s economy.Ellenisalong-timeallyofABCTexas,championingthemeritshopphilosophyand standingupfortheconstructionindustry.Herleadershiphashelpedpromoteapro-business environmentthatbenefitsbothworkersandemployers.

The Honorable Glenn Hegar Comptroller, State of Texas

GlennHegarwaselectedTexasComptrollerofPublicAccounts in2014andwasre-electedin2018and2022.HegarisasixthgenerationTexanwhogrewupfarminglandthathasbeeninhis familysincethemid-1800s.He’sa1993graduateofTexasA&M UniversityandearnedhislawdegreeatSt.Mary’sUniversity. BeforehiselectionasTexasComptroller,heservedintheTexas TexasHouseofRepresentativesandTexasSenate,whereheworkedonissuesincludingpublic education,transportation,taxreform,governmenttransparency,SecondAmendmentrights, waterissuesandtortreform.Ascomptroller,Hegarischieffinanceofficerfortheworld’seighthlargesteconomy.Hehasemergedasapassionateadvocateforconservativefinancial managementwhofocusesonhisagency'sconstitutionaldutiesandiscommittedtomaintaining itsreputationforcustomerserviceandtransparency.Hefoundedthestate’sTransparencyStars program,pushedforwaystoprotectourRainyDayFundagainstrisinginflation,workedto reformourstatepensionsystemsandguidedtheformationofthenation’sfirststateadministeredpreciousmetalsdepository.HegarisrecentlyworkingtowardclosingTexas’ digitaldivideandremediatingtheopioidcrisis,throughtheBroadbandDevelopmentOfficeand OpioidAbatementFundCouncil,respectively.Hisupbringingtaughthimthecorevaluesofhard work,honestyandintegrity thesamevaluesheandhiswifeDaraworktoinstillintheirthree teenagers,Claire,JuliaandJonah.Hegar’smostimportanttitlethroughouthisyearsofserviceis theoneclosesttohome:Dad!

» ASPHALT CONSTRUCTION » ASPHALT CONSTRUCTION » RECYCLED CRUSHED » RECYCLED CRUSHED & SALES & SALES CONCRETE CONCRETE

» LIMESTONE BASE » LIMESTONE BASE

» AGGREGATES » AGGREGATES

» READY MIX CONCRETE

» READY MIX CONCRETE

READYTOGETYOURPROJECTONTHEROAD? READYTOGETYOURPROJECTONTHEROAD? www.texasmaterials.com www.texasmaterials.com

MEET SPEAKERS the

workforce development, and economic growth.

Previously, Will served as a commissioner for the Texas Public Utility Commission, where he played a pivotal role in shaping policy for the state’s energy market. His time in state government, combined with his private-sector expertise, provides him with a comprehensive understanding of Texas' legislative and regulatory landscape. Will is a respected advocate for the construction industry and an ardent supporter of the merit shop philosophy. He has been a trusted partner of ABC Texas and its members, working to advance policies that benefit businesses across the state.

Caitlin Flanders Flanders Public Affairs

Caitlin Flanders is the founder of Flanders Public Affairs, a strategic communications and government relations firm dedicated to helping clients achieve their policy goals. With over 15 years of experience in Texas politics, Caitlin specializes in advocacy, coalition building, and public affairs campaigns that drive meaningful change. Throughout her career, Caitlin has worked closely with policymakers, business leaders, and grassroots organizations to advance pro-business initiatives and foster economic development. Her deep knowledge of the legislative process and ability to build consensus have made her a trusted voice in Texas public affairs.

Caitlin’s commitment to free enterprise and her extensive work with the construction industry align closely with ABC Texas’ mission and values. She is passionate about empowering businesses and ensuring a level playing field for all.

MEET SPEAKERS the

andlowertaxes.Throughouthislegislativecareer,Senator Hancockhasworkeddiligentlytokeepgovernmentoutofthe wayofTexas'job-creatorsandplanaheadforthegrowthassociatedwithourstate’sthriving economy.Hehasalsopassedmodellegislationtoprotectconsumersfromsurprisemedicalbills andgiveTexasthemostconservativestatespendingcapinthenation.Asaconsistentadvocate forkeyissuessuchaspropertytaxreform,educationfreedom,andbordersecurity,Senator Hancockhasearnedrecognitionasa"CourageousConservative,"a"ChampionofSmall Business,"anda"LoneStarConservativeLeader"AgraduateofBaylorUniversity,Senator Hancockpossessesanextensivebusinessbackgroundandrunshisfamily-foundeddistribution company.Hiscommitmenttopublicservicebeganshortlyafterthebirthofhisfirstchild.Asa parentdedicatedtoastrongeducationsystem,SenatorHancockspentthenext13years servingonhislocalschoolboard.Heandhiswife,Robin,havebeenmarried37yearsandhave threechildren:Chloe(Greg),Skylar(Aaron)andHarrison(Parker).Theyproudlywelcomedtheir firstgrandchildin2018andarenowproudgrandparentstosixtinyTexans!

LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES

ForTaxpayers:EliminatingPLAsreducesconstructioncostsbyincreasingcompetition,ensuring taxpayersgetthebestvaluefortheirmoney.

ForFairness:Thisbillpromotesalevelplayingfieldwhereallqualifiedcontractorscanbidonpublic projects,regardlessofunionaffiliation

TalkingPoints:

PLAsdriveupcostsandlimitcompetitionbyexcludingmostofTexas’constructionworkforce. Taxpayerdollarsshouldsupportopenandfaircompetition,notmandatesthatbenefitaselectgroup ofcontractors.

Thisexpansionbuildsonthesuccessofthestateprohibitionandensuresfairnessatthelocallevel. Thisisour#1priorityforthissession.

AbilitytoAssignTrustFundClaims|SB841(Hughes)

Allowscontractorsandsubcontractorstoassigntrustfundclaims,givingthemalegalpathwayto recoverfundsstolenbybadactorsinthepaymentchain.Thispreventscontractorsfrombeingforced topaytwiceforthesameworkduetofraudulentpracticesbyothers.

WhyThisMatters:

UTRGV Vaqueros Golf Center

McAllen (Headquarters): San Antonio: (210) 490-7600 1858 Grandstand Dr., San Antonio, TX 78238 contact us:

ForContractorsandSubcontractors:Ensuresfinancialprotectionsagainstpaymenttheft,whichcan devastatesmallandmedium-sizedbusinesses.

ForAccountability:Holdsbadactorsinthepaymentchainaccountableformismanagingor misappropriatingfundsintendedforcontractorsandsuppliers

ForIndustryStability:Protectstheintegrityofthepaymentprocess,ensuringcontractorscan confidentlybidandcompleteprojectswithoutunduerisk.

TalkingPoints:

Paymenttheftforcescontractorstoshoulderunnecessaryfinancialburdens,oftenleadingtodouble paymentforworkalreadyperformed.

Thisbillempowerscontractorstorecoverstolenfundsthroughproperlegalchannels.

Ensuringfairnessinpaymentpracticesprotectsbusinessesandstrengthenstheconstruction industry.

LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES

FortheConstructionIndustry:Strengthenscollaborationbetweencontractorsandownersby promotingresolutionoverlitigation.

TalkingPoints:

Cleartimelinesfordefectclaimsreduceunnecessarylawsuitsandfostertrustbetweencontractors andowners.

Thisbillensurescontractorshavetheopportunitytofixproblemsbeforefacinglegalaction. ByclarifyingtheRighttoRepairprocess,wepromoteefficiencyandaccountabilityinconstruction projects.

InternationalPlumbingCode(IPC)Adoption|HB747(Bell,Cecil)

1207 E Pecan Blvd, McAllen, TX 78501 contact us:

McAllen (Headquarters): San Antonio: (210) 490-7600

WhyThisMatters:

ForContractors:Simplifiescompliancebyeliminatingtheconfusionofdualplumbingcodes.

1858 Grandstand Dr., San Antonio, TX 78238 (956) 686-9573

EstablishestheInternationalPlumbingCode(IPC)asthesolestatewideplumbingcode,aligningTexas plumbingstandardswithotherInternationalCodes(I-Codes)alreadyinuse.

ForPublicSafety:AlignsTexasplumbingsystemswithnationalbestpracticesforconsistencyand reliability.

UTRGV Vaqueros Golf Center

ForCostSavings:Reducescostsassociatedwithnavigatingdifferentstandardsacrossjurisdictions.

TalkingPoints:

MostTexasjurisdictionsalreadyusetheIPC thisbillformalizesitsadoptiontosimplifyprocesses. AligningwithotherI-Codesensuresconsistencyandefficiencyacrossconstructionprojects. Asinglestatewidecodepromotessafety,reducescosts,andbenefitscontractorsandprojectowners alike.

LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES

TalkingPoints:

Raisingthechangeorderlimitisessentialtoreflecttoday’sconstructioncostsandrealities. Thisbillensurespublicprojectscanadapttochangesefficiently,savingtimeandtaxpayermoney. Outdatedlimitsslowprogressandcreateunnecessaryadministrativeburdens.

NoDamageforDelay|SB776(Hughes)

1207 E Pecan Blvd, McAllen, TX 78501 contact us:

Whileitisimpossibletopredicteverydelayonaconstructionsite,thegoalistoalwaystoremainon schedule.However,onoccasionthedelayiscausedbythepropertyownerortheirrepresentative.In thisscenario,thegeneralcontractorshouldnotbeheldfinanciallyresponsibleforthedelay.HB2265 andSB803prohibitcontractuallanguageforbiddingorlimitingcompensabledamagesfordelays causedsolelybytheowneroritsagent.

WhyThisMatters:

UTRGV Vaqueros Golf Center

McAllen (Headquarters): San Antonio: (210) 490-7600 1858 Grandstand Dr., San Antonio, TX 78238 (956) 686-9573

ForContractors:Protectscontractorsfrombeingsuedfordamagesfordelayscausedbytheowner andencouragesfairresolutionofdisputesbyholdingpartiesaccountableforunnecessarydelays. ForPublicProjectOwners:Itpromotesbetterprojectmanagementpracticesandaccountability whileensuringtimelyidentificationandresolutionofdelay-relatedissues,keepingprojectson track.

ForTaxpayers:Reducestheriskofprolongeddelays,ensuringefficientuseofpublicfunds. Encouragessmootherprojectexecution,savingtimeandresources.

TalkingPoints:

SB776ensurescontractorscannotbesuedfordamagesfordelayscausedbytheowner, promotingequitablepartnershipsonpublicconstructionprojects Holdsallpartiesaccountablefordelay-relateddamagesleadstobetterprojectplanningand execution.

Byaddressingdelay-relateddamages,SB776createsincentivesforpublicprojectownersto manageprojectsefficientlyandresponsibly.

LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES

projectdelays

ForPublicSafety:Ensuresdefectsincriticalinfrastructureareresolvedefficiently,minimizingriskto thepublic.

TalkingPoints:

ExpandingtheRighttoRepairstatuteprotectscontractorsonlarge-scaleprojectswhileensuring timelyresolutions.

Definingclearthresholdspreventsdisputesandencouragescollaborationoncriticalinfrastructure projects.

Thisbillenhancespublicsafetybystreamliningtherepairprocessforvitalinfrastructure.

RehabilitationTaxRepeal|

Repealsthetaxonnon-residentialbuildingrepairsandrenovations,incentivizingpropertyownersto reinvestinexistinginfrastructurewithoutbeingpenalizedfinancially.

WhyThisMatters:

ForContractors:Opensupmoreopportunitiesforrenovationprojects,drivinggrowthinthe constructionindustry.

UTRGV Vaqueros Golf Center San Antonio: (210) 490-7600

1858 Grandstand Dr., San Antonio, TX 78238

ForPropertyOwners:Removesfinancialbarriers,encouragingupkeepandimprovementofexisting buildings.

ForCommunities:Stimulateslocaleconomiesbyrevitalizingcommercialspacesandinfrastructure.

TalkingPoints:

Thecurrenttaxdiscouragespropertyownersfromimprovingtheirbuildings,creatingabarrierto economicgrowth.

Repealingthistaxsupportscontractorsbyincreasingdemandforrepairandremodelingwork. Encouragingreinvestmentinexistinginfrastructurerevitalizescommunitiesandcreatesjobs.

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.