A Big Win for Texas Plants: HB 1592 Becomes Law!

We’re excited to share great news--HB 1592 is now law in Texas, creating a statewide pest and plant disease alert system through Texas A&M AgriLife.

This important legislation was authored by Rep. Mihaela Plesa, sponsored by Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, and backed by strong bipartisan support. It moved smoothly through the Capitol and was allowed to become law by Governor Greg Abbott.

What Does HB 1592 Do?
The new law creates a real-time, email-based alert system to notify:

• Growers
• Landscapers
• Government agencies
• Even home gardeners

when a harmful pest or plant disease is detected in Texas. This opt-in system means faster action, less damage, and stronger protection for crops, landscapes, and native plants.

Why It Matters
✔️ Faster response times to outbreaks
✔️ Less damage to plants and landscapes
✔️ More protection for Texas ecosystems and the green industry
✔️ Better preparedness for changing weather and pest patterns

From nurseries and retail centers to city parks and farms, this new tool gives Texans a better way to protect the plants we depend on.


TNLA Member Voices Made the Difference
We’re proud that Bill Carson of Native Texas Nursery testified in support of the bill. His voice—and the support of TNLA members across the state—helped lawmakers understand the real-world need for this kind of early warning system.
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Looking Ahead
When HB 1592 reached the Governor’s desk on May 25, we celebrated. Now that it’s law, we celebrate again—knowing that Texas is better prepared to fight invasive species and plant health threats.

This is more than just a policy win. It’s a step forward for:

• Public-private partnerships
• Science-backed decision-making
• And protecting the future of Texas’ green economy