The Texas Legislature is back in session, and while 17 items are on the agenda, one stands out for the green industry: impact fees tied to water and development.


Here’s what you need to know:

📌 What’s Happening
Lawmakers are revisiting SB 1253, a bill that would require cities to offer credits on impact fees when developers go above and beyond to conserve water or reduce wastewater.

🧾 Why This Matters
​Cities use impact fees to fund water and sewer infrastructure for new developments. But these fees have gotten expensive—really expensive:

• Austin: $7,700 per single-family home
• San Antonio: $7,343–$11,528 depending on location
• Houston: $1,618
• Fort Worth: $2,999
  
  

With the average home around $300,000, these costs are adding up—and pricing people out.

🏗️ What It Means for Our Industry

• Pro: SB 1253 encourages smarter development and conservation.
• Con: Cities could tie lower fees to stricter landscape design rules—like mandatory plant lists or layouts.
  
  
  

The bill passed earlier this year but was vetoed due to unrelated politics. Now it’s back—and TNLA is tracking it closely to ensure any changes benefit your business and keep design flexibility intact.
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We'll continue to keep you informed as this develops.

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:

• Groundwater availability is projected to drop 25% by 2070
• Many rural communities are struggling with outdated or broken systems
• Population growth and development are putting more pressure on supply

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.
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Let’s invest in the future of Texas—together.

In this quick video update, we share how TNLA is investing in the next generation of green industry professionals—from hands-on programs to strategic partnerships. Discover how these initiatives are helping our members recruit, retain, and inspire a skilled workforce.

Two key leaders in the Texas Legislature have filed major proposals that could dedicate $1 billion every year to support water projects across Texas. This money would be in addition to the $2.5 billion of one-time funding which is in both the House and Senate budgets.


To make this happen, they are proposing constitutional amendments. In Texas, this is the only way to automatically set aside state funding for a specific purpose, like water, and protect it from shifting priorities in future legislative sessions. For these amendments to become reality, they’ll need two-thirds approval from lawmakers and voter approval in November.


Here’s a quick look at the two approaches:

• Senator Charles Perry’s proposal dedicates 80% of the funding to creating new water supplies, including projects like desalination, aquifer storage, and water reuse.
• Representative Cody Harris’s proposal allows for more flexible spending, supporting a wider range of needs like repairing old pipes, upgrading infrastructure, water conservation, and public education on water use.

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Both of these proposals are significant steps toward securing long-term, reliable water funding for Texas, and TNLA is actively monitoring and engaging on your behalf as these ideas move through the legislative process.

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!

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!

​TNLA Chairman Bobby Eichholz discusses his term, the Board's strategic plan, advocacy efforts, water and labor issues, and the rewards of leadership

Water is the lifeblood of Texas communities and industries, especially our green industry, which depends on reliable supplies. Yet, urgent action is required with over 8 million Texans affected by drought and aging infrastructure struggling to keep pace.

Legislative Efforts: A Game-Changer
​State lawmakers, led by Senator Charles Perry, are making this legislative session pivotal for water policy. Perry, chair of the Senate Water and Agricultural Resources Committee, proposes allocating at least $1 billion annually to the Texas Water Fund. This funding could support critical projects like infrastructure maintenance, desalination, and drought mitigation.

Why It Matters to TNLA
For TNLA, this is a critical opportunity. Our members have seen firsthand how water shortages threaten economic growth and the green industry’s ability to thrive. Cities like Dripping Springs and Conroe have already paused new development due to water concerns, and South Texas agricultural operations have faced devastating setbacks.

Take Action with TNLA
TNLA is committed to advocating for sustainable water solutions through consistent state funding and strategic investments. We support legislative efforts to address this challenge head-on and encourage our members to join us in calling for action to secure Texas’ water future. 

Together, we can build a resilient and prosperous state for future generations.

📖 Read more: Austin American-Statesman: Water Issues Are on State Agenda click here
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🔗 Get Involved: For more information on how to get involved with Advocacy efforts don't hesitate to get in touch with Curtis Smith, TNLA Director of Legislative & Regulatory Affairs, at [email protected]

Start the Year Strong with TNLA: Events and Resources for 2025
As we begin 2025, the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association (TNLA) is excited to offer an engaging lineup of events and resources designed to empower professionals and businesses in the green industry. From educational workshops to networking opportunities, here’s a look at what’s coming up this year:

1. Region V Networking Meeting
Date: January 21, 2025
Time: 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Details: Kick off the year by connecting with peers and discussing regional initiatives. This is an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas, collaborate, and strengthen your local network.

2. Meet the Region VII Board
Date: January 22, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Details: Join us for this all-day event where you’ll meet the Region VII Board members. Learn about their goals for the year, provide your input, and find ways to get involved in shaping the future of the industry.

3. TNLA Region II Winter Workshop
Date: January 31, 2025
Time: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Location: West Houston Institute, Houston Community College, 2811 Hayes Road, Houston, TX 77082
Details: This full-day workshop is packed with educational sessions tailored for the green industry, offered in both English and Spanish. Topics include landscaping and maintenance, healthy plants and soil, business development, OSHA safety, and more.
A dedicated Irrigation Track is available, offering 8 hours of TCEQ-approved CEU credit. Lunch is included, and you’ll also have the chance to network with exhibitors and industry professionals. This workshop is a must-attend event for anyone looking to expand their knowledge and build connections in 2025.

4. TNLA Region 7: State of Water in Texas Meeting
Date: February 6, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Location: AgriLife Weslaco Auditorium, 2415 US-83 BUS, Weslaco, TX 78596
Details: This meeting will explore the current state of water resources in Texas, featuring presentations by Curtis Smith
Lunch will be free for members that rsvp and will be $10 for non members that RSVP. Please email [email protected] for questions or to RSVP
Zoom links will be available for members unable to attend in person, ensuring everyone can access this vital information.

5. Women in Hort Virtual Meeting
Date: February 19, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Details: This virtual gathering is designed to connect and empower women in the horticulture industry. Share experiences, gain valuable insights, and grow professionally in a supportive and inspiring environment. Our guest speaker, Lori Whitten from Action Visa, will talk about H2B visa work and its impact on our industry. We’ll also discuss industry trends, TNLA updates, and the latest plans for the Women in Hort event at Expo. 
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85471358024?pwd=Oi4L22jarxBBRirdTjtpEasSIRkDV0.1&from=addon
Meeting ID: 854 7135 8024
Passcode: 158380

6. 2025 TNLA Legislative Day
Date: March 13, 2025
Time: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Details: Join us at the Texas Capitol to advocate for policies that support the green industry. This is a unique opportunity to engage with policymakers, share your perspectives, and help shape the future of the industry.
Let’s Make 2025 a Year of Growth and Success
TNLA is committed to providing the tools, resources, and opportunities you need to succeed. Whether you’re looking to expand your network, gain new insights, or advocate for our industry, there’s something for everyone in this year’s lineup.

Don’t miss out—visit our Events Calendar for full details and registration information. Click HERE

We look forward to supporting your growth and success in 2025. Together, let’s make this year one to remember!​