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HB 4850

Relating to programs to promote economic development in the Office of the Governor and to the repeal of the governor's broadband development council.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Angie Button and 5 co-sponsors

Texas HB 4850 consolidates economic development programs in the Governor's Office and eliminates the Broadband Development Council, effective September 1, 2025.

Effective on 9/1/25
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Bill Summary · HB 4850

Legislative bill overview

HB 4850 reorganizes economic development programs within the Texas Governor's Office and eliminates the Governor's Broadband Development Council. The bill consolidates or redistributes broadband development functions, likely transferring responsibilities to other state agencies or offices within the Governor's administration.

Why is this important

Broadband access significantly impacts rural economic development, education, and healthcare in Texas. This restructuring could affect how the state coordinates broadband expansion initiatives and may influence funding priorities or implementation timelines for rural connectivity projects across the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Broadband council elimination: Removing a dedicated council could reduce specialized focus on broadband issues, potentially slowing coordination between telecommunications providers, local governments, and state agencies
  • Transition and continuity: Projects or initiatives previously managed by the council may face delays or gaps in oversight during the transition to new administrative structures
  • Rural representation concerns: The consolidation may dilute advocacy for underserved rural areas if broadband functions are absorbed into broader economic development offices with competing priorities

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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