Texas Political Spotlight
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The Texas House approved SB 12, a bill that would expand Attorney General Ken Paxton’s authority to prosecute election crimes. In other news, the San Antonio City Council narrowly backed a $489 million city commitment toward a new $1.3 billion Spurs development, including a new arena, despite calls for more independent analysis, framing the project as the centerpiece of a downtown sports and entertainment district. Lastly, former U.S. Rep. Mayra Flores announced she will run again in Texas’ 34th Congressional District under newly redrawn maps, setting up a 2026 rematch with Rep. Vicente Gonzalez in one of the state’s most competitive seats.
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TXBIZNEWS
New Report: 60% of Small Businesses Use AI, Eye Cryptocurrency
On August 18, 2025, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce published the fourth edition of Empowering Small Business: The Impact of Technology on U.S. Small Business found that nearly 60% of small businesses use AI.
The Details:
- The report shows 58% of small businesses use generative AI, up from 40% in 2024 and double 2023’s rate, with 96% planning to adopt emerging technologies like AI and cryptocurrencies.
- 77% of AI-using businesses say limits on the technology would hurt growth and operations, while 82% reported workforce increases last year.
- Jordan Crenshaw, Senior Vice President of the Chamber’s Technology Engagement Center, said, “A fragmented regulatory landscape will significantly hinder their ability to compete… policymakers need a single national framework.”
- Hrag Kalebjian of Henry’s House of Coffee noted, “AI has been a game-changer… streamlining tasks like product descriptions and marketing emails.”
- The study also found 70% of small business owners are interested in cryptocurrency and stablecoins.
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Texas Political Spotlight - Introducing USLege News
Welcome to USLege News.
We’re refreshing the look and feel of our articles, so you may notice some formatting changes along the way. We still plan to bring you the top stories in Texas state and local politics to keep you informed and in the loop on what’s happening each week. Thanks for reading and being part of our community.
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TXBIZNEWS
Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE: UNP) and Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) announced announced a merger that would combine the two companies' 50,000 route miles of railway lines across 43 states into a single coast-to-coast rail network.
The Details:
- The deal values Norfolk Southern at $85 billion, forming a $250 billion enterprise, with Union Pacific acquiring it for $320 per share—a 25% premium based on July 16, 2025, prices—issuing 225 million shares for 27% ownership.
- The merger will link 100 ports, streamlining freight delivery for manufactured goods such as steel and lumber and easing highway congestion, with a target closure by early 2027, pending regulatory and shareholder approval.
- Union Pacific CEO Jim Vena said, “This transaction advances the industry… benefiting customers, communities, and employees.”
- Norfolk Southern CEO Mark George added, “Our combined strengths will deliver for the American economy.”
- Expected $2.75 billion in annual synergies and job security for workers highlight the deal’s impact.
Why It Matters:
This merger is expected to enhance shipping efficiency, preserve jobs, and drive economic value across the U.S.
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