|
TNLA is thrilled to introduce our new "Working for You" Blog!
Stay updated on member events and news that impact the TNLA community. In addition, check out our Green Matters Weekly Newsletter for industry news |
|
The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) has expanded its Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) quarantine in 2026, adding five new counties: Clay, Montague, Young, Hardin, and Erath. The latest additions bring the total number of quarantined counties to 38 as officials continue efforts to slow the spread of this invasive pest, which attacks and kills all ash tree species. What TNLA Members Should Know:
Looking AheadThe addition of five counties in less than a month highlights the continued spread of Emerald Ash Borer across Texas. TNLA will continue monitoring new detections and regulatory developments affecting the green industry.
For any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Curtis Smith Director of Legislative & Regulatory Affairs, TNLA (512) 579-3851
0 Comments
Protecting the industry starts before an ordinance is even written. TNLA continuously monitors local and state regulatory activity to identify issues that could impact nursery and landscape businesses. Recently, TNLA identified an Austin City Council directive asking city staff to explore potential regulations on noise from non-vehicular motors and engines operating in the public right of way. While the initial language was broad, TNLA’s review and conversations with city staff indicated that landscape maintenance equipment was a significant focus of the discussion. Potential approaches discussed include operating-hour restrictions that could limit when crews use equipment, as well as noise limits that could impact a wide range of tools; including both gas-powered and electric landscape equipment. No specific restrictions on landscape equipment have been proposed. However, TNLA engaged early to ensure policymakers understand how potential regulations could impact landscape businesses, employees, and customers before recommendations are developed. TNLA’s Track Record Protecting Equipment Choice Equipment regulations are not new. Across the country, local governments have explored restrictions on professional landscape equipment, particularly targeting gas-powered tools. Recognizing this growing trend, TNLA proactively worked with lawmakers in 2023 to pass legislation protecting Texas businesses from local landscape equipment bans based solely on fuel source. The current Austin discussion is different. City staff are reviewing potential noise regulations and operating-hour restrictions rather than a fuel-source ban. However, TNLA remains engaged because regulatory challenges continue to evolve, and early involvement ensures the green industry has a voice before decisions are made. TNLA Brings the Industry to the Table After identifying the issue, TNLA contacted Austin’s Development Services Department (DSD), the department responsible for reviewing potential options and gathering stakeholder feedback. When DSD convened an industry roundtable, TNLA helped bring experienced professionals representing landscape maintenance, arboriculture, fleet management, and field operations to the conversation. The goal was simple: make sure decisions about landscape equipment include input from the people who use it every day. Industry representatives highlighted several key concerns: Commercial equipment needs are different. Many landscape companies are already incorporating battery-powered equipment where practical. However, challenges remain with battery runtime, field charging, replacement costs, and performance for heavy-duty commercial applications. Austin’s own Commercial Landscaping Equipment Electrification Study, which was completed just last year found that less than 10% of commercial landscape equipment currently operates on electric power, with battery life and charging limitations identified as major barriers. Regulations must be practical and enforceable. TNLA raised concerns about how noise limits would be measured and enforced consistently across contractors, residents, construction crews, utilities, and city operations. Early morning operations are critical. Landscape professionals explained that many crews begin around 7:00 a.m. to reduce worker exposure to extreme Central Texas heat, improve efficiency, and meet customer needs. Landscape maintenance supports Austin’s broader goals. Professional landscape care helps protect tree canopy, manage stormwater, reduce heat, support fire prevention, and maintain healthy communities. What Happens Next? The city remains in an information-gathering phase. Staff are reviewing feedback, evaluating enforcement challenges, and considering additional stakeholder engagement before making recommendations to City Council. TNLA will continue monitoring the process, working with city staff, and advocating for practical solutions that protect the ability of landscape professionals to operate. This is why TNLA advocacy matters: identifying issues early, bringing industry expertise to the table, and ensuring the green industry has a voice before decisions are made. Contact TNLA's Legislative & Regulatory Affairs Team Curtis Smith Director of Legislative & Regulatory Affairs [email protected] Karan Mehta Legislative & Regulatory Affairs Manager [email protected] The Water Conservation Advisory Council (WCAC) is a state advisory body created by the 80th Texas Legislature in 2007 and operates under the Texas Water Development Board. One of their duties is to provide legislative recommendations to the Texas Legislature and state agencies on water conservation strategies and policies. The Council recently met to review and advance draft legislative recommendations focused on water conservation strategies across Texas. These discussions are particularly important during the interim, as WCAC recommendations can inform future legislation, rulemaking, and statewide water policy initiatives. For TNLA members, these priorities signal potential changes to irrigation practices, reporting requirements, and funding opportunities that could directly impact business operations and compliance. Key Legislative Priorities: Landscape & Irrigation Best Practices (Master Valves) A recommendation was approved to require installation of master valves on all new landscape irrigation systems. These devices help prevent water loss from leaks and system failures and are considered a low-cost, high-impact conservation tool when installed upfront. Member impact: Contractors and irrigation professionals may see increased demand for master valve installation and should be aware of evolving expectations. Statewide Evapotranspiration (ET) Network WCAC is recommending that the Legislature provide additional funding to the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) to expand and support a statewide evapotranspiration (ET) network within the TexMesonet program. Evapotranspiration (ET) is a measurement of how much water is lost from soil and plants to the atmosphere through evaporation and plant use, and it is a key tool for determining how much and when to irrigate. The recommendation includes increasing appropriations (approximately $1.2 million for the biennium) to support:
This builds on the existing TexMesonet network, which was established to provide statewide weather and water data but currently lacks sufficient resources to fully incorporate ET data. Member impact: Expanded ET data access could support more precise irrigation practices and strengthen the case for smart irrigation technologies. This may create opportunities for members offering advanced irrigation solutions. Irrigation Requirements for Single-Family Rental Properties (Still Under Development) WCAC is examining a proposal to update Public Utility Commission rules to extend existing tenant water-use protections to single-family rental properties. Currently, tenants in apartments, condominiums, and manufactured housing have protections related to water billing and responsibility under submetering rules. However, these protections do not apply to single-family rentals. In some cases, landlords require tenants to irrigate landscapes to maintain the property, even during periods when local water restrictions are in place. This can result in tenants facing fines, penalties, or higher water bills for actions required under their lease. The proposal would align all rental property types by extending these protections to single-family rentals, helping ensure tenants are not penalized for irrigation requirements outside their control. Member impact: Could affect how irrigation services are directed and who is responsible for compliance on rental properties, requiring landscape professionals to follow local water restrictions regardless of lease requirements. Agricultural Water Conservation Funding WCAC is recommending that water conservation projects, such as irrigation efficiency improvements and drought-resilience measures be clearly recognized as eligible for financial assistance through the Texas Agricultural Finance Authority (TAFA). While TAFA already provides low-interest loans and other financial tools for agricultural production, water conservation is not explicitly identified in statute. WCAC’s recommendation is to highlight and reinforce that these activities qualify under existing authority. This recommendation does not create new funding or prioritize water conservation over other uses but instead increases awareness of existing financing options. Member impact: Increased visibility of funding opportunities could benefit selected growers engaged in water-efficient practices, particularly those eligible for conservation-related financial assistance. Municipal Water Use Transparency WCAC is recommending stronger reporting and visibility of:
The goal is to improve accountability and encourage better performance through clearer, more accessible data. This would include a full-time employee assisting utilities, review submitting data, and posting the conservation/reuse BMP volumes. Their path is for Texas utilities and water planning regions to better understand the progress and effectiveness of implementing water conservation and reuse strategies. Member impact: Increased transparency may lead to heightened scrutiny of outdoor water use and irrigation practices, particularly in municipal or commercial settings. This could influence local regulations, customer expectations, and how water use is tracked and reported. What’s Next WCAC will now move into developing a formal legislative report, including summaries and supporting visuals.
Why It Matters These recommendations signal a continued focus on:
TNLA will continue monitoring as recommendations are finalized and assessing potential impacts on the green industry. The Texas House and Senate have now released their 2026 interim charges, the official study topics committees will work on ahead of the 2027 legislative session. These charges often become the foundation for the next round of legislation, giving us an early look at the issues that may shape the future policy environment for our industry. You can review the full charges here:Senate Interim Charges: https://www.ltgov.texas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2026-Interim-Charges.pdf House Interim Charges: https://www.house.texas.gov/pdfs/speaker/F-Interim-Charges-3.25.pdf From TNLA’s perspective, the biggest themes are water supply and supporting Texas agriculture, but the interim charges extend well beyond those issues. They also address insurance affordability, property tax relief, local government fees, workforce transportation, housing growth, permitting timelines, and the overall competitiveness of Texas agriculture and small businesses.
Taken together, these charges examine many of the core factors that determine how easy or difficult it is to operate a green industry business in Texas, from access to water and labor to the cost of trucks, insurance, land, and local permits. Two House committees stand out as especially important for our members. House Agriculture & Livestock includes meaningful charges on invasive species, Texas Department of Agriculture authority, agricultural resiliency, and expanding markets for Texas-grown products. These discussions could directly affect plant health response, quarantine processes, specialty crop competitiveness, and the visibility of Texas-grown nursery and landscape products. House Natural Resources may be the most significant committee for the green industry this interim. Charges on groundwater management, new water supply strategies, brackish groundwater, data center water use, and regional water planning all go directly to long-term water availability and allocation. These discussions will influence how Texas balances growth, agriculture, urban water needs, and future supply development. On the Senate side, we are also closely tracking charges related to data center water demand, utility revenue transfers, desalination, insurance affordability, local fee transparency, and CDL standards. Each of these has real implications for project timelines, business costs, labor flexibility, and long-term water affordability. Our advocacy team will be actively monitoring hearings, identifying opportunities for committee feedback and testimony, and ensuring the voice of Texas nurseries, landscape professionals, irrigators, and allied businesses is part of these conversations. The interim is where many of the biggest ideas for the next session begin to take shape, and we believe the 2026 cycle could be especially consequential for water policy, Texas agriculture, and the overall business climate for the green industry. We will continue to keep you updated as these hearings develop. Congress is currently working on the next Farm Bill, and decisions being made right now will directly impact Texas nursery and landscape businesses. TNLA members are encouraged to take five minutes to contact their Members of Congress and urge support for the Farm Bill and its specialty crop provisions. Just last month, TNLA provided a full breakdown of the Farm Bill and what it means for horticulture and specialty crops. Now, as the bill moves forward in Congress, it’s time to take action. Lawmakers need to hear directly from the businesses affected by these policies. Your voice helps ensure the green industry is represented as this legislation moves forward. The Background: Why the Farm Bill Matters The Farm Bill is the primary piece of legislation that shapes federal agricultural policy in the United States. While it is often associated with traditional row crops, the Farm Bill has become increasingly important for specialty crops, including nursery and greenhouse production, as well as the broader green industry. It has been nearly a decade since Congress passed a full Farm Bill. During that time, the industry has operated under short-term extensions while facing historic challenges, including freezes, drought, labor shortages, supply chain disruptions, and rising input costs. The current proposal, known as the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, represents the first major opportunity in years to update policies that directly affect our industry. How It Affects the Green Industry The Farm Bill includes several provisions that impact the green industry supply chain: from growers to landscapers to suppliers. Stronger Risk Management Tools Improvements to specialty crop insurance help address long-standing gaps compared to traditional agriculture, providing better protection against weather-related losses. Improved Disaster Assistance Updates to programs like the Tree Assistance Program (TAP) improve how quickly and effectively growers can recover from losses, with added flexibility for replanting. A Permanent Emergency Assistance Framework The bill establishes a standing framework for specialty crop disaster assistance, providing more predictability instead of relying on ad hoc relief. Water & Conservation Programs Expanded conservation programs support irrigation efficiency and water stewardship, helping offset costs for implementing water-saving practices. Research, Grants & Innovation Farm Bill funding supports research, extension services, and grant programs that improve pest management, develop resilient plant varieties, advance automation, and expand market opportunities. In Texas, many of these programs are delivered through university and extension partnerships that directly impact day-to-day operations for green industry businesses. Why This Matters Now The green industry plays a significant role in Texas’s economy, but it faces unique challenges that require policies tailored to specialty crops. This Farm Bill represents meaningful progress in addressing those needs: strengthening risk management, improving disaster response, supporting water efficiency, and investing in long-term innovation. As Congress continues to debate the legislation, it is important that policymakers understand the role and needs of our industry. TNLA Working for You The Texas Nursery & Landscape Association is actively engaged in monitoring the Farm Bill and advocating for policies that support specialty crops and the green industry. Through coordination with national partners and direct engagement with policymakers, TNLA is working to ensure our industry’s voice is heard. Bottom Line The Farm Bill is a critical opportunity to strengthen the long-term stability and competitiveness of the green industry. But advocacy matters. Your participation helps ensure the green industry is represented in federal policy decisions that affect our future.
Elections don’t just shape headlines: they shape how our businesses operate every day. From water regulations and labor policies to plant movement rules and local landscape ordinances: decisions made at the ballot box directly affect our green industry. As the 2026 election cycle approaches, Texas Nursery & Landscape Association (TNLA) is committed to making sure our members are informed, prepared, and empowered to participate. This guide breaks down why these elections matter, what races and deadlines to know, and how you can help ensure our industry’s voice is heard. Why Elections Matter to the Green Industry Policy decisions made at every level impact how our industry grows and operates.
Important Congressional Races to Watch The 2026 congressional elections in Texas will feature major races, but they’re also being shaped by unusual turnover and redistricting that could significantly change the state’s representation. So far, nine Texas members of Congress are not seeking re-election, creating many open seats. Without incumbents on the ballot, these races are expected to be more competitive and closely watched, giving voters greater influence over who represents them in Washington. At the same time, mid-decade redistricting has redrawn district boundaries across Texas, forcing some incumbents to step aside and reshaping the political landscape. Together, retirements and redistricting have turned Texas into a high-stakes battleground in 2026, one that could influence control of the U.S. House and federal policy decisions that matter to the green industry. Know What’s on Your Ballot Before heading to the polls, take time to review the candidates and issues you’ll be voting on. County election offices publish official sample ballots that reflect exactly what will appear on your ballot. For additional background and context, the Texas Tribune offers a primary ballot lookup tool to help voters see what races are on the ballot for the March primary: https://apps.texastribune.org/features/2026/texas-march-2026-primary-ballot/ Key Election Dates to RememberMark your calendar with these important deadlines for the March 3, 2026, Primary Election.
How You Can Help Strengthen Advocacy EffortsTNLA advocates for the green industry year-round, and member involvement plays an important role in helping us stay informed, responsive, and effective. When members share what they’re seeing and stay engaged, TNLA can identify issues earlier and advocate more proactively on behalf of the industry.
Member participation helps:
Here are a few ways you can help and stay involved: 1. Stay Informed TNLA regularly shares legislative and regulatory updates through the Hive Legislative & Regulatory Group. This group is a central place for timely information, advocacy updates, and opportunities to engage. 👉 Join or follow the group here: https://thehive.tnlaonline.org/topics/45449/feed 2. Share What You’re Seeing Many issues affecting our industry start at the local level. New ordinances, water restrictions, licensing changes, or regulatory concerns are often first noticed by members in their own communities. Members are encouraged to post and share observations in the Hive, not just read updates. TNLA staff actively monitor these conversations and use this insight to track trends and respond proactively. 3. Take Action When You Can Responding to action alerts, voting, and contacting elected officials all help amplify the green industry’s voice. Hearing directly from constituents who live and work in their districts helps policymakers better understand how decisions affect real businesses. If you’re ever unsure whether something is worth flagging, reach out. Advocacy works best as a two-way conversation, and no issue is too small to share. Working Together for a Stronger Industry Elections and policy decisions directly impact the future of Texas’s green industry. By staying informed, sharing what you’re seeing, and engaging when opportunities arise, you help ensure that industry perspectives are reflected in decision-making. Together, we can continue supporting policies that allow Texas’ green industry to grow and thrive. Questions or insights? Contact TNLA’s Legislative & Regulatory Affairs Team:
 Last week, TNLA hosted a webinar with Jeremy Mazur, one of Texas’ leading voices on water policy, to examine how Proposition 4 and other statewide initiatives could shape the future of our state’s water supply, conservation, and infrastructure. Proposition 4—on the ballot this November—would dedicate $1 billion per year from existing sales tax revenue to the Texas Water Fund producing up to $20 billion of new funding over the next 20 years.
Jeremy emphasized that while new funding tools are essential, Texas’ long-term water security will ultimately depend on sustained infrastructure investment and close collaboration among utilities, landscapers, growers, and irrigators. He highlighted the role TNLA members already play in leading the way—designing sustainable landscapes, advancing efficient irrigation practices, and advocating for balanced policies that promote both conservation and customer choice. 📺 Watch the full webinar here: https://youtu.be/lq-BuOC35qY 🎧 Listen to the full conversation here: https://tinyurl.com/bdfv6buk Big news for Texas—and for every community that depends on reliable water.
This November, voters will decide whether to approve the largest water investment in our state’s history: a proposed $22.5 billion over the next 22 years to fix aging infrastructure, develop new water sources, and protect the long-term water supply for rural towns, cities, and the green industry alike. This effort comes through two key pieces of legislation: ✅ Senate Bill 7 (SB 7) ✅ House Joint Resolution 7 (HJR 7) If passed, these measures would constitutionally dedicate up to $1 billion per year—from state surplus funds—to support water projects beginning in 2027 and continuing through 2047. Why It Matters Water isn’t just a resource—it’s a legacy. And Texas is facing real challenges:
This investment would support: ✔️ Desalination, water reuse, and aquifer storage projects ✔️ Upgrades to aging pipes and treatment facilities ✔️ Access to federal matching dollars ✔️ Support for small-town water systems Governor Greg Abbott called this the “largest investment in water in Texas history”—and for good reason. 🌱 TNLA Is Involved The Texas Nursery & Landscape Association (TNLA) strongly supported this legislation and worked with lawmakers to ensure our industry’s voice was heard. Water is vital to the success of landscape businesses, growers, and garden centers across the state—and it’s critical for the health of Texas communities. What’s Next 📅 November 4, 2025 – Voters will decide the fate of HJR 7 at the ballot box. This is a rare chance to secure long-term water funding for generations to come. TNLA will be doing its part to help educate members, clients, and voters about why this matters—and we hope you will too. Let’s invest in the future of Texas—together. This year, TNLA turns 25—and we’re feeling all the pride, gratitude, and excitement that comes with a milestone like this. For 25 years, we’ve grown together, advocated together, and built something bigger than any one of us. And none of it would be possible without you—our members. So as we wrap up our fiscal year and head into the end of membership renewal season, we wanted to say thank you… and remind you of everything that comes with being part of TNLA Did You Know Your Membership Includes All This? 💼 Advocacy That Protects Your Business From water restrictions to workforce rules, TNLA is your voice at the Capitol. This year alone, dozens of members cited legislative updates as one of their top-valued benefits. 🤝 Connections That Stick Members consistently name Expo and networking events as their favorite part of TNLA. Whether you're new or a longtime member, you’ve probably made at least one lifelong friend at Expo. 📣 Communication You Can Count On We know things move fast. That’s why we keep you in the loop with timely updates, member alerts, and resources. Coming Soon! A news app--so you never have to wonder what’s going on in your industry & stay connected- anywhere, anytime! 🎓 Education That Pays for Itself Need CEUs? Want to develop your next leader? From Leadership Bootcamp to certification programs, your membership opens doors to growth—for you and your team. 📬 Tools to Hire Smarter You asked for better recruiting help—and we’re delivering. Coming Soon!! A new mobile-friendly job board! Making it easier than ever to find the right fit. 📢 A Community That Cares Did you know members rated TNLA’s overall value at 4 out of 5? We’re proud of that—and always striving to make it a 5. Our fiscal year ends June 30, so now’s the time to lock in your benefits for another year of growth, connection, and progress. Because after all—we’re not just celebrating 25 years of TNLA… We’re celebrating 25 years of serving YOU. Renew Your Membership Now by visiting: https://www.tnlaonline.org/renew-now.html See how TNLA helped defeat a risky bill, passed a key alert system, and took your voice to D.C. for real impact!The Texas Legislature is nearing the end of its 140-day regular session, with the end of session set for June 2, 2025. While that marks the formal close of business, the Governor retains the authority to call lawmakers back into special session at any time, for any reason. Below is an update on key developments at the State Capitol—and a look at our efforts on the federal front. Protecting Professional Standards: TNLA Helps Stop Risky Licensing Loophole Senate Bill 2702 failed to pass this session—thanks in large part to TNLA and our licensed irrigator members. The bill would have allowed out-of-state education credentials to substitute for Texas-specific licensing requirements, such as the 40-hour course required before taking the Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester (BPAT) exam. While well-intentioned, it posed serious risks:
Big News for the Texas Green Industry: Plant Disease and Pest Alert System Headed to Governor’s Desk A major win—TNLA’s plant disease and pest email alert bill has passed both chambers and is on its way to the Governor. The bill establishes a voluntary, opt-in email alert system, administered by Texas A&M AgriLife, to notify professionals, agencies, and the public when pests or plant diseases are detected and move across our state. Benefits include:
Special thanks to Rep. Mihaela Plesa for authoring the bill and to Bill Carson (Native Texas Nursery) for testifying in committee. TNLA Went to Washington #SaveH2B On May 20, TNLA sent five members to Washington, D.C. for the annual H-2B Fly-In, hosted by NALP and FEWA. Alongside 80+ leaders from 25 states, our group met with 125 Congressional offices, including key Texans. They shared how the H-2B visa program supports:
Trump White House Releases Make Our Children Healthy Again Assessment On May 22, the Trump Administration released the Make Our Children Healthy Again Assessment, initiated by executive order. The report addresses the alarming rise in childhood chronic illness and identifies four main drivers:
Why it matters for TNLA: The report highlights risks related to pesticide exposure and degraded outdoor environments—areas TNLA works to improve. It also criticizes weak federal oversight influenced by corporate lobbying, especially in agriculture and chemical safety. Importantly, it advocates for restoring access to clean, green spaces—an area where landscape professionals and growers play a key role. TNLA members are part of the solution through sustainable practices, healthy landscapes, and promoting environmental stewardship. 🔗 Read the full report here: whitehouse.gov/maha Upcoming Industry Events You Won't Want to MissFREE Webinar: Stay Compliant & Avoid I-9 Audits Thursday, June 12, 2025 🕐 12:30 PM I-9 audits are increasing across the country—and for many businesses, one misstep could mean costly consequences. TNLA is teaming up with legal expert Jacob Monty of Monty & Ramirez LLP to bring you a can’t-miss compliance webinar: “Steps Employers Can Take to Avoid I-9 Audits and Stay Compliant.” 🔍 Topics include:
Horticulture Exploration Day – Texas A&MJune 2, 2025 | 1:00 – 4:00 PM Location: In the Horticulture/Forest Science Building: 495 Horticulture Rd, College Station, TX 77843 Who Should Attend: Anyone interested in horticulture-related careers Whether you’re a student, educator, or simply curious about horticulture, this event at Texas A&M offers a closer look into degree programs and careers in plant science. Attendees will explore everything from floral design and plant genetics to controlled environment horticulture—and meet with current students and faculty along the way  Women in Horticulture Events – Two Unique Opportunities to ConnectWe’re excited to share not one, but two upcoming Women in Horticulture gatherings—each with its own focus and purpose. Here’s what you need to know so you don’t miss out: 🌼 TNLA Women in Hort Virtual Meeting Hosted by TNLA (Statewide) 📅 Wednesday, June 25, 2025 | 🕙 10:00 AM | 💻 Virtual Join women across Texas in this virtual statewide event featuring guest speaker Jennifer Hatalski, TCNP of Calloway’s Nursery. This is a great chance to gain professional insight, ask questions, and feel inspired by other women in the industry—no matter where you're located. 🪴 Pro Tip: You’re welcome to attend both! One connects you statewide, the other strengthens your local network. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned professional, there’s something for everyone.  🌿 Region VIII – In-Person Women in Hort Gathering Hosted by TNLA Region VIII (Central Texas Only) 📅 Saturday, June 7, 2025 | 🕓 4:00–8:00 PM 📍 Bear Creek Retreat, 13813 Carpenter Ln, Manchaca, TX 78652 This in-person gathering is exclusively for women in TNLA’s Region VIII, including Austin, San Antonio, and surrounding areas. It’s all about building local connections, swapping knowledge, and supporting one another in a relaxed, welcoming setting. RSVP to:[email protected]  OLE! Texas – Virtual Designer Training SeminarJuly 24–25, 2025 Hosted Online Calling all landscape architects and designers! The Outdoor Learning Environment (OLE!) Texas program is offering a two-day virtual seminar to train professionals on how to support nature-based outdoor spaces for early childhood education programs. 💸 Scholarships available to cover the $1,000 course fee—apply today!
 👏 What TNLA is Doing
From leading I-9 compliance efforts to promoting professional development opportunities like Women in Hort, TNLA is committed to connecting you with the resources that matter most. We advocate, we educate, and we cultivate a stronger green industry—together. Stay tuned for more upcoming events, and make sure you’re following us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for updates! The Texas Legislature is nearing the end of its 140-day regular session, with the end of session set for June 2, 2025. While that marks the formal close of business, the Governor retains the authority to call lawmakers back into special session at any time, for any reason. Below is an update on key developments at the State Capitol—and a look at our efforts on the federal front.
Protecting Professional Standards: TNLA Helps Stop Risky Licensing Loophole Senate Bill 2702 failed to pass this session—thanks in large part to TNLA and our licensed irrigator members. The bill would have allowed out-of-state education credentials to substitute for Texas-specific licensing requirements, such as the 40-hour course required before taking the Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester (BPAT) exam. While well-intentioned, it posed serious risks:
Big News for the Texas Green Industry: Plant Disease and Pest Alert System Headed to Governor’s Desk A major win—TNLA’s plant disease and pest email alert bill has passed both chambers and is on its way to the Governor. The bill establishes a voluntary, opt-in email alert system, administered by Texas A&M AgriLife, to notify professionals, agencies, and the public when pests or plant diseases are detected and move across our state. Benefits include:
Special thanks to Rep. Mihaela Plesa for authoring the bill and to Bill Carson (Native Texas Nursery) for testifying in committee. TNLA Went to Washington #SaveH2B On May 20, TNLA sent five members to Washington, D.C. for the annual H-2B Fly-In, hosted by NALP and FEWA. Alongside 80+ leaders from 25 states, our group met with 125 Congressional offices, including key Texans. They shared how the H-2B visa program supports:
Trump White House Releases Make Our Children Healthy Again Assessment On May 22, the Trump Administration released the Make Our Children Healthy Again Assessment, initiated by executive order. The report addresses the alarming rise in childhood chronic illness and identifies four main drivers:
Why it matters for TNLA: The report highlights risks related to pesticide exposure and degraded outdoor environments—areas TNLA works to improve. It also criticizes weak federal oversight influenced by corporate lobbying, especially in agriculture and chemical safety. Importantly, it advocates for restoring access to clean, green spaces—an area where landscape professionals and growers play a key role. TNLA members are part of the solution through sustainable practices, healthy landscapes, and promoting environmental stewardship. 🔗 Read the full report here: whitehouse.gov/maha |
AuthorKim Cabrera, TNLA Marketing Manager Archives
July 2026
|
RSS Feed
