As the legislative session moves forward, several bills have been introduced that could have a direct impact on the nursery and landscape industry in Texas. From tax exemptions on agricultural inputs to water conservation policies and HOA regulations, these proposals could shape the way our industry operates for years to come.
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Below is a list of key bills that TNLA is monitoring—if any of these affect your business, please reach out with your thoughts, concerns, or insights. Your feedback is invaluable as we work to advocate for policies that support the Texas Green Industry.
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Tax Relief for Agricultural Inputs
HB 255 / HJR 31 by Rep. Guillen

• This bill would exempt agricultural inputs from the inventory tax, including seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and other resources essential for plant production.
• A major win for growers and producers, helping lower costs and support agricultural businesses.

Right to Farm Protections
HB 1964 by Spiller & SB 1035 by Sparks

• Provides attorney fee provisions under the Right to Farm statute, ensuring that farmers and ranchers can recover legal costs when forced to challenge city regulations that threaten their livelihood.
• Strengthens legal protections for agricultural producers facing unnecessary regulatory burdens.

Landscaping & Water Conservation
HB 1424 by Rep. Goodwin

• Allows municipal water utilities to implement tiered pricing structures to encourage conservation, with excessive users paying higher rates.
• This could impact large-scale landscaping and irrigation costs.

HB 1245 by Rep. Goodwin

• Would require utilities to prohibit irrigation of commercial nonfunctional turf during drought conditions and enforce penalties for violations.
• Introduces new definitions for “functional” and “nonfunctional turf,” which could have broad implications for commercial and residential landscapes.

HB 2269 by Rep. Isaac

• Prohibits homeowners’ associations (HOAs) from requiring homeowners to install or maintain grass or turf landscaping.

SB 542 by Sen. Schwertner (Companion Bills: Rep. Harris-Davilla & Rep. Goodwin)

• Prohibits HOAs from fining homeowners if their lawns become brown or discolored due to local utility restrictions.
• Protects homeowners from unfair penalties while supporting water conservation efforts.

E-Verify Mandates for Government Contracts
HB 323 (Spiller), HB 1019 (Shaheen), HB 1308 (Tepper), HB 1488 (Louderback), HB 2744 (Vasut), SB 324 (Kolkhorst)

• Multiple bills have been filed requiring all governmental entities in Texas to use E-Verify for their employees and those they contract with.

Compost Use in TxDOT Projects
SB 736 by Sen. Menéndez

• Requires TxDOT to use at least 25% compost in its projects, standardizing a practice that some districts already follow.
• This could increase demand for compost production and recycling within the industry.

Environmental Regulations
HB 1637 by Rep. Hull

• Prohibits the use of herbicides containing glyphosate on the grounds of public or private schools, with an exception for crops grown as part of a curriculum.
• Could impact how landscapers and groundskeepers manage vegetation on school properties.

HB 3054 by Rep. Briscoe Cain

• Prohibits governmental entities, including state agencies, counties, and cities and more, from planting trees that are not native to any part of Texas.
• Texas A&M AgriLife would be responsible for creating a list of trees considered native to the state.
• This could significantly impact municipal landscaping projects and tree selection in public spaces.

Additional Bills to Watch
HJR 97 & HB 1370 (Rep. Raymond) – Proposes a constitutional amendment for property tax exemptions on xeriscaped land to promote water conservation.
HB 1592 (Rep. Plesa) – A refiled TNLA-supported bill that would require AgriLife to establish a statewide alert system for dangerous plants, pests, and diseases.

Get Involved – Your Voice Matters!
As these bills progress, TNLA needs to hear from you! If any of these proposals impact your business, please share your questions, concerns, or insights with us. Member input helps shape our advocacy efforts and ensures we are fighting for policies that support the industry.

Reach out to me at [email protected] to discuss how these legislative efforts might affect your business.
Let’s work together to protect and strengthen the Texas Green Industry!

In light of increased reports of immigration enforcement actions across the country, including worksite audits and compliance inspections, it’s more important than ever for businesses in the green industry to stay informed and prepared. While there is no confirmed evidence of widespread employer-based ICE raids, the situation is rapidly evolving, and misinformation is spreading.

As an employer, you have a legal obligation to comply with federal and state employment laws, but you also have rights in how you respond to workplace enforcement actions. That’s why TNLA is committed to providing credible information and resources to help businesses navigate these challenges confidently.

Key Steps for Employers to Stay Prepared
✔ Review I-9 Compliance: Ensure that all employee records are properly completed and up to date. ICE audits can happen at any time, and missing or incorrect documentation could result in penalties.
✔ Know Your Rights & Responsibilities: While employers must follow federal employment laws, it is equally important to avoid discriminatory hiring or termination practices based on immigration status.
✔ Have a Plan in Place: If ICE visits your workplace, designate a point of contact, understand what documents may be requested, and consult legal counsel immediately.
✔ Seek Reliable Guidance: Given the complexity of immigration laws, working with experienced legal professionals can help ensure compliance while protecting your business and employees.

Upcoming TNLA Webinar: Get the Facts from an Expert
To help members separate fact from fear, TNLA is hosting a free webinar with nationally recognized immigration and employment attorney Jacob Monty of Monty & Ramirez LLP.
📅 Date: March 26, 2025
⏰ Time: 12pm NOON
💻 Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Dg313xi8THiDdJFflTmSiA


What You’ll Learn:
✅ Understanding ICE Enforcement Actions – The key differences between raids, audits, and inspections and what they mean for your business.
✅ How to Prepare for ICE Audits & Workplace Visits – What steps you should take now to ensure compliance before an audit happens.
✅ Proactive I-9 Audits – How internal audits can help identify and correct issues before enforcement actions.
✅ Addressing Employee Concerns – Best practices for communicating with employees, handling workplace uncertainty, and countering misinformation.
✅ Your Rights & Responsibilities as an Employer – How to stay compliant while also protecting your business.
Attendees will also receive the Monty & Ramirez “Toolkit” for Immigration Compliance for Employers and Know Your Rights materials to share with employees.

Know Your Rights: What to Do If ICE Visits Your Business
While each situation is unique, there are general best practices that employers should follow if ICE agents arrive at your workplace:
🔹 Public Areas: ICE agents can enter public areas of a business, but they do not have the authority to stop, question, or detain individuals without cause. Employees in public spaces have the right to remain silent and request an attorney.
🔹 Private Areas: ICE agents cannot enter private areas of your business without a judicial warrant signed by a judge. Administrative warrants (such as DHS Forms I-200 or I-205) do not grant ICE access to private areas.
🔹 During a Search: If ICE has a valid search warrant, monitor agents closely to ensure they stay within the scope of the warrant. Do not voluntarily provide access to records beyond what is legally required.
🔹 I-9 Audits: If notified of a Form I-9 audit, contact legal counsel immediately. Employers typically have three business days to provide I-9 forms. If ICE identifies unauthorized employees, businesses have 10 days to correct documentation or remove affected employees from payroll.

Supporting Employees with Know Your Rights Training
With enforcement actions making headlines, many workers fear workplace raids or unexpected detentions. Employers should consider providing Know Your Rights training so employees understand their protections under U.S. law, including:
✔ The right to remain silent – Employees are not required to answer questions about their immigration status.
✔ The right to refuse a search – ICE agents must have a valid warrant to conduct a workplace search.
✔ The importance of staying calm – Employees should avoid sudden movements or fleeing, as this could escalate the situation.

For additional guidance, we encourage employers to review the National Immigration Law Center’s resources:
📌 What to Do if You Are Arrested or Detained by Immigration

TNLA is Here to Help
At TNLA, we understand that immigration enforcement is a complex and sensitive issue for many businesses in our industry. That’s why we are closely monitoring the situation and will continue providing timely, factual updates to our members.

If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact:
Curtis Smith – [email protected]
512-579-3851

Stay informed. Stay prepared. We’re here to support you.

The green industry is evolving rapidly, and staying ahead of key challenges is essential for success. TNLA is offering a series of expert-led webinars covering critical topics—from federal crop insurance to AI-driven hiring and immigration compliance. These free webinars provide actionable insights to help you navigate industry changes and protect your business in 2025.

February 27, 2025 | 12:00 PM
🎤 Speaker: Jeffrey VanLandingham, Tarpon Blue Insurance Advisors
🔗 Click here to join
A new federal crop insurance program is expanding coverage options for nursery growers. This session will provide clarity on eligibility, benefits, and how to leverage federal resources.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Expanded coverage options & higher-value protection for nursery growers
✔ How an FSA relationship can qualify growers for federal program dollars
✔ The difference between standard nursery plant insurance and federally subsidized crop insurance

leader​March 6, 2025 | 12:30 PM
🎤 Speaker: Jack Jostes, Ramblin Jackson
🔗 Register Here
Finding & keeping quality employees is one of the biggest hiring challenges in the green industry. Learn how AI-driven strategies can help streamline hiring, improve job descriptions, and attract the right talent.
What You’ll Learn:
✔ How AI can write job descriptions that attract top candidates
✔ AI tools to pre-screen applicants and improve hiring efficiency
✔ Strategies to boost employee retention & engagement
✔ Step-by-step ways to integrate AI into your recruiting process

March 26, 2025 | 12:00 PM
🎤 Speaker: Jacob Monty, Monty & Ramirez, LLP Attorneys at Law
🔗 Register Here
With immigration enforcement policies rapidly evolving, Texas businesses—especially those in landscaping & agriculture—are facing new compliance challenges. Learn how to protect your business and avoid costly legal missteps.

Discussion Points:
✔ Understanding ICE Enforcement Actions – The difference between I-9 audits, targeted arrests, and worksite enforcement
✔ Preparing for ICE Audits – Steps to ensure your business is compliant before an inspection
✔ Conducting Internal I-9 Audits – How to identify and correct compliance issues before ICE does
✔ Addressing Employee Concerns – Best practices for clear communication & managing misinformation


Don’t Miss Out – Secure Your Spot Today!These FREE webinars are designed to help TNLA members, and space is limited. Reserve your seat now and gain insights that will help your business thrive in 2025
Questions? Contact Sarah Riggins at [email protected] 

For over three decades, Joseph Johnson has been a driving force behind the Nursery/Landscape EXPO Gardens, formerly known as Parks and Patio, shaping the event’s look and feel with his expertise in landscape design. As co-chair of the Gardens Task Force, he has played a key role in bringing creative designs to life, ensuring that EXPO remains a visually stunning and inspiring event.

A Legacy of Leadership
Joseph’s journey with EXPO Gardens began in 1992, back then it was known as Parks and Patio, when the late Anne Muscat introduced him to the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association (TNLA) and encouraged him to take part in the initiative. Since then, he has led efforts to:
✅ Review student-submitted garden designs
✅ Curate donation lists for plants and materials
✅ Coordinate on-site installations with industry partners
✅ Enhance key areas of EXPO, including TNLA’s booth, the PAC lounge, and education spaces

His eye for detail and deep understanding of horticulture have helped elevate EXPO year after year, creating a welcoming atmosphere for both exhibitors and attendees.

A Passion for Public Gardens
Beyond EXPO, Joseph has built an impressive career in public horticulture. A Texas A&M horticulture graduate (’88), he has held leadership roles at the Dallas Arboretum and MD Anderson Cancer Center. In 2016, he returned to Texas A&M to lead the Leach Teaching Gardens, a 7-acre outdoor classroom and community space that educates and inspires future horticulture professionals.

A Lasting Impact
Joseph’s dedication to the industry is unmatched, and his contributions to EXPO Gardens ensure that each year’s event is a showcase of landscape excellence. TNLA is proud to celebrate his leadership and the legacy he continues to build.

Thank you, Joseph, for over 30 years of service to TNLA and EXPO Gardens!
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👉 Read more about Joseph’s work here:
Growing a Dream into Reality – AgriLife Today

Make an Impact: Join TNLA Legislative Day at the Capitol
​The 2025 TNLA Legislative Day at the Capitol is fast approaching, and your participation is more important than ever. This annual event, happening March 13, is a key opportunity for Texas’ green industry professionals to come together, meet with state lawmakers, and advocate for policies that directly impact our businesses.

Why Your Voice Matters
With the legislative session in full swing, lawmakers are making decisions that affect water resources, workforce development, and regulatory policies—all of which shape how we operate. When industry professionals like you engage directly with legislators, it helps ensure they understand the real-world impact of these policies.

What to Expect
Attendees will have the chance to:
✔ Meet face-to-face with key decision-makers
✔ Share industry experiences and challenges
✔ Ensure TNLA’s voice is heard where it matters most
Cost & Registration💰 Cost to Attend: $180 – This fee covers breakfast, lunch, and event expenses to ensure a productive and impactful experience.

Hotel Accommodations: Book your stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Austin University Capitol District, using our exclusive hotel block for the night before the event. Click here to reserve your room before Feb 20 deadline. If you call into the reservations line, the Group Code is TNLA

Support TNLA’s Advocacy Efforts
We’re also looking for sponsors to help make this event a success. If you or your company would like to support TNLA’s ongoing advocacy efforts, reach out—we’d love to have you involved.
Your presence at Legislative Day makes a difference. Register today and help shape the future of Texas’ green industry!

🔗 Register Now
Contact Information: For more information or questions, reach out to: Curtis Smith Email: [email protected] Phone: 512-579-3851
 We look forward to seeing you at the Capitol!