On Feb. 28, more than 40 members of the Texas Aggregates & Concrete Association (TACA) visited with Texas legislators to discuss issues important to the aggregate, concrete and cement industries, including policy priorities and budget proposals before the 88th Texas State Legislature.
“TACA’s Capitol Day is a great opportunity for legislators and their staffs to connect with our members, who supply the essential materials Texas needs to support its unprecedented population growth,” said TACA President and CEO Josh Leftwich. “For example, many might be surprised to know that every year, nearly nine tons of stone, sand, gravel and cement are required for every Texas resident.”
The event included a Legislative Breakfast, which featured remarks by Rep. Kyle Kacal (House District 12), vice chairman of the Corrections Committee and a member of the House Natural Resources Committee.
“What you do is build Texas. Make Texas better,” Kacal told the group. “Legislators need to hear your story. You need to make your points loud and clear while advocating on behalf of your industry and why it is so important to this state.”
One-on-one meetings between TACA member companies and 70 legislators and their staffs were held in the afternoon. During the meetings, a primary topic of discussion included the importance of establishing consistent and predictable regulatory policies, a process requiring a delicate balance between sustaining growth and ensuring appropriate protections of the environment.
TACA anticipates an increased demand for new construction and infrastructure brought on by Texas’ continued population growth, which is estimated at 1,000-1,400 new residents a day. Much of the construction material required for these jobs is sourced locally and used to construct homes, schools, hospitals, bridges, roads and highways.