Texas is bracing for a warmer and drier spring season, following a severe cold snap in January that ranked as the 2nd coldest on record for McAllen and the 8th coldest for Brownsville[1]. The National Weather Service forecasts a higher risk of heat and continued drought through April, with Falcon and Amistad reservoirs expected to remain at historic lows.

In government and politics, the 89th Texas Legislature kicked off its regular session on January 14, with Republicans controlling both the House and Senate. The session is expected to focus on conservative priorities such as school vouchers, property tax reform, and improving the state's water supply[4]. Governor Greg Abbott renewed the border security disaster proclamation for numerous Texas counties, citing ongoing threats from unlawful border crossings[3].

On the economic front, the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas is set to release its Texas Economic Outlook on February 7, providing insights into employment growth and factors influencing the state's economy in 2025[5]. The event will feature Pia Orrenius, vice president and senior economist, discussing the latest economic trends.

In community news, the state's education system and infrastructure projects are under scrutiny. The Texas Tribune reports on the legislative session's focus on these areas, including debates on school vouchers and property taxes[4].

Looking ahead, Texans can expect continued dry conditions and heat risks through April, with occasional cool fronts becoming weaker as the season progresses. The Texas Economic Outlook event on February 7 will provide crucial insights into the state's economic prospects for 2025. Additionally, the ongoing legislative session will continue to shape policy on key issues such as education, infrastructure, and border security.

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Texas is gearing up for a busy legislative session and economic year, with several key developments shaping the state's future. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick unveiled his top 25 priority Senate bills for the 2025 legislative session, focusing on conservative Republican priorities such as the state budget, school vouchers, and a ban on THC products[3]. The Texas House and Senate, both controlled by Republicans, will tackle these issues during the regular session running from January 14 to June 2, 2025[4].

In economic news, the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas is set to release its forecast for Texas employment growth for the year at its annual Texas Economic Outlook event on February 7, 2025[5]. This event will provide crucial insights into factors influencing the Texas economy in 2025.

On the environmental front, the Rio Grande Valley is expected to experience a warmer and drier than normal late winter to spring season, with heat risk concerns increasing through April[1]. The recent Arctic blast from January 20-22, 2025, was the 2nd coldest on record for McAllen and the 8th coldest for Brownsville, but no similar events are anticipated for the remainder of the winter season.

Looking Ahead:
- The Texas Economic Outlook event on February 7, 2025, will provide critical information on the state's economic prospects.
- The legislative session will continue to address key issues such as the state budget, school vouchers, and property tax exemptions.
- Environmental concerns, including drought and heat risks, will remain a focus as the state moves into the spring season.

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In Texas, several key developments are shaping the state's political, economic, and environmental landscape. U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz is set to lead the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, a move that could significantly influence policies on telecommunications, aviation, and space exploration[1].

The 89th Texas Legislature, which began on January 14, 2025, is expected to tackle critical issues such as school vouchers, water supply improvements, and property tax reforms. The new speaker of the Texas House, elected with a coalition of Republican and Democratic votes, will play a pivotal role in shaping the legislative agenda[2].

On the economic front, Texas business leaders are expressing renewed optimism about the state's economy, with nearly 80% anticipating increased revenue in the coming year. This surge in confidence is driven by strong underlying economic momentum and the ability of businesses to navigate the current economic landscape[3].

However, environmental concerns are also on the rise. Plans for a massive Rio Grande LNG export terminal have drawn criticism from environmental groups, the City of Port Isabel, and Native American tribes, highlighting the need for careful consideration of environmental impacts[1].

In terms of public safety, the FBI has concluded that the suspect in the New Year’s attack in New Orleans acted alone, planting explosives in ice coolers around the French Quarter[1].

Looking ahead, the Texas Legislature will continue to debate and pass legislation on various issues, including education and infrastructure projects. The state's economic outlook will be closely watched, with business leaders and policymakers working to sustain the current momentum. Additionally, environmental developments, such as the proposed LNG export terminal, will remain a focus of public attention and debate. The upcoming cold front, expected to enter northwest Texas by Saturday morning, will also be monitored for its potential impact on air quality and weather conditions across the state[4].

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In Texas, several key developments are shaping the state's political, economic, and environmental landscape. The 89th Legislature has begun its regular session, which will run until June 2, 2025, with Republicans controlling both the Texas House and Senate. The new speaker of the House, elected with a coalition of Republican and Democratic votes, is expected to have a significant impact on the direction of this year's lawmaking[1].

On the economic front, Texas is experiencing a slowdown but remains resilient. According to Luis Torres, Senior Business Economist with the Dallas Federal Reserve Bank, the state's economy continues to outperform the national average in key areas. Despite a slight increase in employment in November, the annual employment growth rate for 2024 is projected at 1.6%, below the typical 2% trend but still ahead of the U.S. average[2].

Environmental concerns are also at the forefront, particularly regarding water supply. State Sen. Charles Perry is working to address the issue of insufficient water for the state's booming population. Additionally, the Rio Grande Valley is expected to experience warmer and drier conditions than normal through March 2025, exacerbating drought and dryness concerns[3].

In other news, Governor Greg Abbott has announced that his 2025 State of the State address will be on Sunday, February 2, outlining his priorities for the 89th Legislature and the actions needed to build a stronger Texas[5].

Looking Ahead:
- The 89th Legislature will continue to debate and pass legislation on various issues, including school vouchers and property taxes.
- The state's economic performance will be closely monitored, with businesses expecting strong demand and improved operating margins over the next six months.
- Environmental concerns, particularly water supply and drought conditions, will remain a focus for policymakers and residents alike.
- Governor Abbott's State of the State address on February 2 will provide further insight into his legislative priorities and the state's future direction.

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In Texas, the economy is showing resilience despite a slowdown, according to Luis Torres, Senior Business Economist with the Dallas Federal Reserve Bank – San Antonio Branch. Speaking at the Hays Caldwell Economic Development Partnership (HCEDP) Economic Outlook, Torres noted that while job creation has eased, inflation is cooling, and the state’s economy continues to outperform the national average in key areas[1].

The Texas Legislature has kicked off its 89th regular session, which runs from January 14 to June 2, 2025. Republicans control both the Texas House and Senate, and the session is expected to focus on conservative priorities such as debating school vouchers, improving the state’s water supply, and reining in property taxes[4].

In business news, Texas employment saw a slight increase in November, surpassing October’s numbers but at a slower rate than usual. The state's annual employment growth rate for 2024 is projected at 1.6%, below the typical 2% trend but still ahead of the U.S. average[1]. The energy sector remains optimistic about 2025, with oil prices forecast to stabilize around $71 per barrel.

On the environmental front, the Rio Grande Valley is expected to experience warmer and drier conditions than normal from January to March 2025, with drought concerns increasing through the winter and early spring season[2]. The Texas Water Development Board has reported that reservoir levels are at or below 30-year lows, and total storage is expected to remain at or near record lows through March.

Looking Ahead:
- The Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas will hold its annual Texas Economic Outlook event on February 7, 2025, where Pia Orrenius, vice president and senior economist, will release the Dallas Fed's forecast for Texas employment growth for the year[5].
- The Texas Legislature will continue to address pressing issues such as water supply and property taxes, with significant policy changes expected in the coming months[4].
- Weather conditions in the Rio Grande Valley will be closely monitored, with potential for cold snaps and increased wildfire risk through March 2025[2].

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Texas has kicked off its 2025 legislative session with a contentious start, as Republican state Rep. Dustin Burrows was elected as the new speaker of the Texas House, defeating Rep. David Cook in a vote that highlighted deep divisions within the GOP[1][5]. The election has sparked criticism and potential censures from the Republican Party of Texas, signaling ongoing infighting within the party.

On the economic front, Texas is experiencing a slowdown but remains resilient, according to Luis Torres, Senior Business Economist with the Dallas Federal Reserve Bank – San Antonio Branch. Despite a slower employment growth rate, Texas continues to outperform the national average in key areas, with 60% of surveyed firms expecting increased demand in the first half of 2025[2].

Weather forecasts for the Rio Grande Valley indicate a warmer and drier than normal winter and early spring, with a high risk of drought and dryness expanding through March. The National Weather Service warns of potential cold snaps and increased wildfire risks[3].

In other news, the Texas economy is expected to benefit from stable oil prices and continued growth in the energy and manufacturing sectors, particularly in Houston and Fort Worth. However, Austin's growth has slowed due to a dip in tech-related services[2].

Looking Ahead:
- The Texas Legislature will continue to debate major issues such as school vouchers, property taxes, and water supply improvements.
- The impact of the new speaker on the legislative session and the future of the Texas GOP will be closely watched.
- Economic trends and weather conditions will continue to shape the state's outlook, with a focus on managing drought and supporting business growth.

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As Texas enters 2025, several key issues are shaping the state's political, economic, and environmental landscape. The Texas House of Representatives has elected a new speaker, Dustin Burrows, amidst a contentious battle within the Republican Party. Burrows, an establishment Republican, won the speakership with 85 votes, edging out Rep. David Cook of Mansfield, who received 55 votes[2].

In education, the upcoming legislative session is expected to revisit the contentious issue of school vouchers, which would allow families to use public funds for private education or homeschooling. Despite previous rejections by voters, the GOP continues to push for this initiative[1].

On the economic front, Texas has shown modest growth, with services revenue and retail sales increasing, though job growth has slowed. The Dallas Fed's Texas Business Outlook Surveys indicate improved business outlooks, particularly in demand expectations, but also note rising long-term interest rates as a potential headwind[3].

Environmental concerns are also on the rise, particularly in the Rio Grande Valley, where a La Niña event is expected to lead to warmer and drier conditions through March. This could exacerbate drought and wildfire risks, with the National Weather Service predicting a high likelihood of continued dryness and potential cold snaps[4].

Looking Ahead:
- The Texas legislative session will continue through June 2, with lawmakers addressing a two-year state budget and hundreds of bills.
- The school voucher debate is expected to intensify, with public school advocates opposing the measure.
- Weather conditions in the Rio Grande Valley will be closely monitored, with potential for increased wildfire risks and drought.
- The impact of La Niña on Texas's agricultural and water resources will be a developing story throughout the winter and early spring.

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Texas is entering 2025 with a mix of optimism and challenges across various sectors. The state's economy, while slowing down, remains resilient according to Luis Torres, Senior Business Economist with the Dallas Federal Reserve Bank – San Antonio Branch. Torres noted that inflation is cooling, and the state continues to outperform the national average in key areas, with 60% of surveyed firms expecting increased demand in the first half of 2025[1].

In government and politics, the 89th Texas Legislature began its regular session on January 14, 2025, with Republicans controlling both the Texas House and Senate. The session will focus on issues such as school vouchers, improving the state’s water supply, and reining in property taxes[4].

On the business front, employment in Texas saw a slight increase in November, surpassing October’s numbers but at a slower rate than usual. The state's annual employment growth rate for 2024 is projected at 1.6%, below the typical 2% trend but still ahead of the U.S. average[1].

Community news highlights the importance of education and infrastructure projects. The intersection of workforce, economic development, and education is seen as crucial for Texas's growth, as emphasized by Aaron Demerson, President and CEO of the Texas Economic Development Corporation[1].

Environmental and weather updates indicate that Texas is expected to experience warmer and drier conditions than normal from January to March 2025, with drought concerns increasing through the winter and early spring season. The Rio Grande Valley is particularly at risk, with reservoirs at or below 30-year lows[2].

Looking Ahead:
- The Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas will hold its annual Texas Economic Outlook event on February 7, 2025, providing insights into the state's economic forecast for the year[5].
- The Texas Legislature will continue to address key issues such as water supply, workforce shortages, and energy reliability, with significant policy changes expected in the coming months[4].
- Weather conditions will be closely monitored, with potential for cold snaps and increased drought risks through March 2025[2].

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Texas is entering 2025 with a mix of optimism and challenges across various sectors. The 89th Legislature's regular session, which began on January 14, is expected to focus on conservative priorities such as school vouchers, property tax reform, and improving the state's water supply, despite internal GOP conflicts[1].

On the economic front, Texas continues to show resilience despite a slowdown. Senior Business Economist Luis Torres from the Dallas Federal Reserve Bank noted that while job creation has eased, inflation is cooling, and the state's economy outperforms the national average in key areas. Texas businesses are optimistic, with 60% expecting increased demand in the first half of 2025[5].

The state's employment growth rate for 2024 is projected at 1.6%, below the typical 2% trend but still ahead of the U.S. average. The energy sector remains optimistic about 2025, with oil prices forecast to stabilize around $71 per barrel[5].

However, environmental concerns are growing, particularly in the Rio Grande Valley, where a La Nina event is expected to lead to warmer and drier conditions through March 2025. This could exacerbate drought and wildfire risks, with the National Interagency Fire Center indicating an "Above Normal Potential" for wildfires in Deep South Texas[3].

Looking ahead, the Texas Legislature's actions on key issues such as school vouchers and property taxes will be closely watched. Additionally, the state's economic performance and environmental challenges will continue to be significant stories in 2025. The upcoming months will also see the progression of the La Nina event and its impacts on Texas's weather and natural resources.

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Texas is entering 2025 with a mix of optimism and challenges across various sectors. The state's economy, while slowing, remains resilient, according to Luis Torres, Senior Business Economist with the Dallas Federal Reserve Bank – San Antonio Branch. Torres noted that despite a slight increase in employment in November, the annual employment growth rate for 2024 is projected at 1.6%, below the typical 2% trend but still ahead of the U.S. average[1].

In government and politics, the 89th Texas Legislature's regular session began on January 14 and will run until June 2, 2025. Key issues on the agenda include addressing the state's water supply shortages, debating school vouchers, and reining in property taxes[4]. State Senator Charles Perry aims to tackle the water supply issue, a critical concern given the state's booming population.

On the business front, Texas businesses are optimistic, with 60% of surveyed firms expecting increased demand in the first half of 2025. The energy sector remains optimistic about 2025, with oil prices forecast to stabilize around $71 per barrel. However, natural gas production and energy-related loan values have declined[1].

In environmental and weather updates, the Rio Grande Valley is expected to experience warmer and drier conditions than normal from January to March 2025, with a high risk of drought and wildfire spread. The National Weather Service warns of potential cold snaps and increased wildfire concerns as the winter season progresses[2].

Looking Ahead:
- The Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas will host its annual Texas Economic Outlook event on February 7, 2025, providing insights into the state's economic forecast for the year[5].
- The Texas Legislature will continue to address critical issues such as water supply, education, and property taxes, with significant policy changes expected in the coming months[4].
- The state's economic resilience and business optimism suggest a positive outlook for 2025, despite challenges in specific sectors[1].

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