The Senate Committee on Economic Development convened on April 23, 2025, to discuss key legislative proposals aimed at enhancing economic growth in Texas. The primary focus of the meeting was Senate Bill 2298, which seeks to include the city of Plano in the list of eligible cities for a Qualified Hotel Project (QHP) under Chapter 351 of the Texas Tax Code.

Senator Alvarado introduced the committee substitute for the bill, with Senator Paxton explaining the differences between the substitute and the original bill. The proposed legislation aims to facilitate the construction of a hotel near the Plano Event Center, which has been a significant venue for conventions and meetings since its establishment in 1990. Currently, Plano is the largest city in Texas that does not qualify for the QHP program, which has hindered its ability to attract out-of-town visitors due to the absence of nearby accommodations.

Mayor John Muns of Plano testified in support of the bill, emphasizing the economic benefits that a new hotel would bring to the area. He noted that the lack of a hotel has resulted in lost opportunities for hosting conferences, as the nearest hotel is approximately a 40-minute walk from the convention center. Muns highlighted that the inclusion of Plano in the QHP program would act as a catalyst for economic revitalization and private investment, aligning with the state’s broader strategy for economic growth initiated by Governor Abbott in 2018.

Andrew Fortune, also from the city of Plano, provided additional support for the bill, indicating his role as a resource for any questions from the committee members. Following their testimonies, the committee opened the floor for questions but ultimately closed public testimony without further discussion.

The committee decided to leave Senate Bill 2298 pending, subject to the call of the chair, indicating that further deliberation will occur before a final decision is made. The meeting then transitioned to the next agenda item, Senate Bill 2747, with Senator Paxton recognized to explain its provisions.

Overall, the discussions highlighted the importance of legislative support for local economic initiatives and the potential impact of the proposed hotel project on Plano's economic landscape.