Senate Bill 28, which focuses on financing of ports, was filed in the Texas State Legislature Monday, March 6. Port Houston Executive Director Roger Guenther, President of the Texas Ports Association (TPA), provided a statement on the legislative action:

“On behalf of all Texas ports, I want to thank Lt. Governor Dan Patrick and State Senator Brandon Creighton for their continued interest in, and commitment to, helping our ports. Texas ports support 1.5 million jobs in the state and generate $367 billion in economic activity, representing 23 percent of the state-wide GDP. Energy, petrochemicals, manufacturers, retailers and ultimately consumers rely on maritime commerce.

Texas ports are growing and there are significant opportunities ahead to move more goods into and out of the state. Our ports face tremendous infrastructure and other challenges to maintain their national and global competitiveness, and the state government is a crucial partner in ensuring the efficient flow of maritime commerce in Texas.

We look forward to working with all legislators and state leaders on solutions that ensure Texas ports remain competitive and continue to provide economic benefit to the state.”

The Texas Ports Association’s mission is to advance the development of Texas ports, enabling them to compete with ports outside Texas, and thereby strengthen the economy of the State of Texas.