From strengthening critical infrastructure to investing in workforce development, several updates from across Texas are worth watching for the business community.

Here’s a look at the latest news from the Texas Association of Business (TAB), along with legislative activity happening this week.

Texas Launches Water Cybersecurity Pilot

Governor Greg Abbott and National Cyber Director Sean Cairncross have launched Project Watershed 250, a six-month cybersecurity pilot designed to help protect Texas water and wastewater systems from cyber threats.

Launched in San Antonio, the initiative will connect participating utilities with federal and private-sector cybersecurity resources at no cost. The program is especially focused on smaller and rural water providers that may not have dedicated cybersecurity teams or resources.

Texas Cyber Command, created through House Bill 150 during the last legislative session, will oversee implementation. The Environmental Protection Agency and Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency will also serve as federal partners.

Private-sector companies, including Texas Association of Business members Microsoft, Google and Amazon, are among those providing services for the project.

For communities across Texas, including rural areas, the initiative represents another step toward protecting critical infrastructure and strengthening cybersecurity preparedness.

Career Training Grants Support High-Demand Jobs

Texas is also continuing its investment in workforce development.

Governor Abbott announced three Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grants totaling $872,543 for three Central Texas schools. Awarded through the Texas Workforce Commission, the grants will help the schools purchase and install equipment used to train students for high-demand occupations.

The funding is expected to initially support training for 75 students pursuing careers including automotive service technicians and nurses.

Programs like JET help strengthen the connection between education and workforce needs by giving students hands-on experience while helping employers build a pipeline of skilled workers.

Texas Sales Tax Revenue Reaches $4.6 Billion

The Texas Comptroller reported $4.6 billion in state sales tax revenue for August, reflecting continued consumer and business activity across Texas.

Sales tax collections are an important indicator of the state's economic activity and provide a significant source of funding for state and local government services.

Legislative Look: Texas House Committee Meets This Week

The Texas House Committee on Human Services is scheduled to meet Wednesday, September 9, at 10:00 AM.

Committee members will discuss several issues, including child welfare services, adoption transparency and post-adoptive support, and due process during child protective services investigations.

The committee will also monitor implementation of House Bills 109 and 1403 and Senate Bill 513.

There is currently no interim activity scheduled in the Texas Senate this week.

Staying Connected to What Matters for Texas Business

The Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce works to keep our Investors informed about issues and developments that can impact businesses, employers and communities across Texas.

Through our partnership with the Texas Association of Business, we’ll continue sharing updates on legislative activity, workforce development, economic trends and other issues affecting the Texas business community.

Information provided through the Texas Association of Business (TAB) Texas Pulse and Legislative Look.