Texas Political Spotlight
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Gov. Greg Abbott is preparing an executive order that would impose new statewide rules on THC sales, including a minimum purchase age of 21, after lawmakers failed to agree on a ban during the latest special session. At the same time, Texas Rep. James Talarico has launched his campaign for U.S. Senate, bringing his blend of progressive politics and faith-driven messaging into a crowded Democratic primary that already includes former Rep. Colin Allred and former astronaut Terry Virts. And in a separate development, New York Attorney General Letitia James has stepped into a legal fight with Texas over abortion pills, a clash over shield laws that experts say could ultimately reach the U.S. Supreme Court.
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TXBIZNEWS
On September 4, Toyota announced a $531 million investment to expand its manufacturing facility in San Antonio, underscoring its ongoing commitment to the region, as detailed in a press release.
The Details:
- The investment will add a 500,000-square-foot facility dedicated to drivetrain parts production, creating over 400 new jobs and enhancing production for the Toyota Tundra and Sequoia.
- The project builds on Toyota’s 20-year legacy in San Antonio, where it already assembles trucks and SUVs, and follows a $6.5 million grant to East Central ISD for STEM education.
- Rep. John Lujan said, “This expansion underscores Bexar County’s growing reputation as a hub for advanced manufacturing.”
- Toyota Texas aims to start production by mid-2026, reinforcing its role in the U.S. manufacturing supply chain.
- The move aligns with Toyota’s $531 million investment announced in June 2024, reflecting a continued focus on local growth.
Why It Matters:
This investment strengthens San Antonio’s manufacturing sector and supports Texas’s economic leadership in advanced industries.
We hope you enjoyed today’s read!
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.
We hope you enjoyed today’s read!
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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