STATE AGENDA Texas 89th Legislature 2025
MIDLAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
• Support efficient permitting but acknowledge the need for appropriate health, safety and environmental safeguards. • Promote collaboration between industry and regulators to find solutions that promote economic growth, health, safety and environmental stewardship. • Support infrastructure development that supports the growth of our industry and community • Support workforce development programs. Business Midland is home to a vibrant small business sector that serves as a major employer and supports the oil and gas industry. State policies affecting taxation, commerce, employment and more can affect the business climate of communities, like Midland, across Texas. Midland Chamber of Commerce Position: • Advocate for tax and regulatory policies that benefit West Texas employers and business owners. • Support a pro-business environment that empowers entrepreneurship and business growth. • Support economic development and diversification. • Advocate for investments in infrastructure projects that improve transportation, logistics, and connectivity in the region for the free movement of people and goods. Infrastructure & Safety Road infrastructure: Midland’s rapid growth and heavy industry strains and damages existing road infrastructure. Congestion creates safety hazards due to increased traffic volume and hinders workforce mobility. Electrical Transmission Infrastructure: Reliable electricity is essential for Midland’s businesses and residents. Grid reliability concerns, especially during peak demand, can disrupt operations, impact economic growth, and pose risks to public safety. Pipeline Infrastructure: Pipelines are vital for transporting oil and gas products from the Permian Basin. Aging systems and capacity constraints are among the concerns that surround pipeline infrastructure. Maintaining safe and efficient pipeline operations is critical for the energy industry, the state economy and public safety. Midland Chamber of Commerce Position: • Advocate for increased state funding dedicated to road expansion and maintenance in energy- producing regions like Midland. Understanding that there is a connection between road quality and economic productivity, public safety and quality of life. • Support specific projects crucial to Midland’s economy and safety, such as I-14, I-20, I-27, Hwy 191, Hwy 158 (Garden City Hwy), and Loop 250. • Advocate for state policies that incentivize investment in new transmission lines and grid upgrades in high-growth areas like Midland. • Support economic development and diversification. Support pipeline infrastructure to advance economic growth, realizing the crucial role pipelines play in Texas’ energy dominance • Encourage collaboration between industry, regulators, and local communities.
303 W. Wall Street, Suite 200 • Midland, Texas 79701 • 432-683-3381 • www.midland.biz
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