Texas Governor Greg Abbott delivered his State of the State address on February 2, 2025, at the Arnold Oil Company in Austin, touting the state’s strong economy and outlining a list of priorities for the upcoming legislative session. The speech marked the third time Abbott has delivered the address outside of the state Capitol.
Abbott praised Texas’ economic success, stating, "Texas is the most powerful economy in America. Ranked as the best state for doing business for 20 years, Texas is number one for the most new jobs, number one for economic development, and number one as the best state to start a new business." He highlighted the state’s progress in technology, innovation, and border security, calling it "the blueprint for America’s future."
The governor’s address also focused on several key areas, including property tax relief, education, and water infrastructure. Abbott announced seven emergency items, which he wants lawmakers to prioritize during the 140-day legislative session.
Property Tax Relief
Abbott called for an additional $10 billion in property tax relief, citing the need to address the affordability crisis in Texas. He emphasized the need to ban loopholes that allow local taxing authorities to increase property taxes, saying, "Loopholes that increase your property taxes must be banned. No taxing entity should be able to raise your property taxes without a two-thirds approval by voters."
Education
Abbott made school choice an emergency item, instructing lawmakers to pass legislation creating Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), a voucher-like program to provide public funds for private education. He also acknowledged the need to improve teacher pay, saying, "We must fund and train the best teachers. That starts with giving our teachers a pay raise this session. Additionally, we must reward the best teachers by putting them on a path to earn a six-figure salary."
Water Infrastructure
The governor emphasized the need for a "generational investment" in water infrastructure, citing the growing water scarcity in the state. He announced plans to tap into new water supplies and repair pipes to save billions of gallons of water each year.
Bail Reform, Career Training, and Texas Cyber Command
Abbott also announced emergency items in the areas of bail reform, career training, and creating Texas Cyber Command. He called for an end to the "revolving door" bail system, saying, "We must deny bail to criminals charged with capital murder and other heinous violent crimes. Illegal immigrants who are arrested should be considered a flight risk, denied bail, and turned over to ICE."
Conclusion
In his State of the State address, Governor Abbott emphasized the importance of addressing Texas’ pressing issues, from property tax relief to education and water infrastructure. With his emergency items, he is prioritizing the state’s future and setting the stage for a productive legislative session.
FAQs
Q: What are the key areas of focus for Governor Abbott’s State of the State address?
A: Property tax relief, education, water infrastructure, and bail reform are among the key areas of focus.
Q: What is the purpose of the Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) program?
A: ESAs would provide public funds for private education, giving families more choices in their children’s education.
Q: Why is water infrastructure a priority for Governor Abbott?
A: The governor is concerned about the growing water scarcity in Texas and wants to invest in new water supplies and pipe repair to save billions of gallons of water each year.
Q: What is the "revolving door" bail system, and why is it a problem?
A: The "revolving door" bail system allows criminals to be released on bail, only to be rearrested and released again, perpetuating a cycle of crime. Abbott wants to end this system and prioritize public safety.
