Our Priorities
Education & Recapture
State investments in K-12 are critically important to improving education outcomes. The Legislature should increase the basic allotment, update a cost of education index, maintain accountability and invest in teachers
to ensure that public schools can thrive. The Legislature should identify reforms to Recapture, which send nearly $1 Billion in Central Texas taxpayer dollars outside of our region.
Economic Development
Support policies that attract employers, create jobs and grow Central Texas’ manufacturing and technology industry. The Legislature should increase investments in physical infrastructure andbroadband to keep pace with population and economic growth, as well as boost funding for:
• Texas Enterprise Fund
• Skills Development Fund
• Film Incentives
Workforce Development
The Austin Chamber supports policies and programs that bolster our local workforce, strengthen Texas’ talent pipeline and prepare our students and workers for careers in high demand fields. The Legislature should advance policies that support Texas’ childcare infrastructure, which is critical to supporting parents in the workforce.
Artificial Intelligence Policy
The Legislature should advance common-sense, responsible laws related to artificial intelligence (AI) that protects innovation and beneficial emerging technologies while safeguarding citizens and businesses against harmful uses of AI.
State Legislative Agenda
The Austin Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors approved recommendations for the Legislative Session.
View 2024 Priorities
Join the Government Relations Council
The Government Relations Council is comprised of local business leaders who inform the Chamber's stances on policy issues. This committee meets monthly.