Senator Blanco presents Senate Bill 913 to promote tourism funding in Alpine Texas

The Senate Committee on Economic Development convened on April 7, 2025, to discuss several legislative matters, including the pending Senate Bill 2448 and Senate Bill 913. The meeting began with the closure of public testimony regarding Senate Bill 2448, which remains under consideration.

Following this, Senator Blanco was recognized to present Senate Bill 913. He highlighted that in February 2003, the Texas legislature mandated that Alpine, Texas, allocate at least 50% of its hotel occupancy tax (hot tax) for advertising and promotional purposes. This bill aims to address the allocation of these funds and its implications for local economic development.

The committee's discussions focused on the importance of these bills in promoting tourism and supporting local economies. Further details on the outcomes of these discussions and any resolutions or votes were not provided in the transcript.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the committee's ongoing efforts to evaluate and advance legislation that impacts economic development in Texas, with a particular focus on local funding mechanisms for tourism promotion. Further actions and follow-up on the discussed bills are anticipated in future meetings.