Texas Legislative Conference

Connections That Count

March 27-28, 2025 | New Braunfels Civic Center

Register

Texan of the Year Reception

Date: Thursday, March 27, 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Details: Please join us as we celebrate our 2025 Texan of the Year, Justice Nathan Hecht. The evening will include networking, open bar, hors d'oeuvres, photo opportunities and the presentation of the Texan of the Year Award. 

58th Annual Texas Legislative Conference

Date: Friday, March 28, 2025
Time: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Details: The half-day conference provides can’t miss opportunities to hear insight from leading elected officials, decision makers, and subject matter experts. The panel topics are timely, relevant and will focus on important issues that are affecting our great state. 

8:00-8:30 a.m. registration & breakfast

8:30-9:00 a.m. opening address

J Bruce Bugg Jr
Chairman

J. Bruce Bugg, Jr.

Texas Transportation Commission

9:00-9:45 a.m. Exploring Challenges & Opportunities in Texas Education 

Education is at the heart of Texas’ future, and the policies shaping it today will have lasting effects for generations. This discussion will explore some of the most pressing issues facing education in the Lone Star State, including the future of school funding, the potential impact of vouchers on public schools, and how property tax relief could reshape educational opportunities.

Matthew Watkins
Editor in Chief

Matthew Watkins, moderator

The Texas Tribune
Brad Buckley

Representative Brad Buckley

Chairman, House Public Education Committee
Marisa Perez Diaz
Member District 3

Marisa Perez-Diaz

State Board of Education
Dan Huberty
Chief Executive Officer

Dan Huberty

MoakCasey
Bob Popinski
Senior Director of Policy

Bob Popinski

Raise Your Hand Texas

10:00-10:45 a.m. The Future of Gaming in Texas: Policy, Possibility, and Impact 

With discussions around gaming policy gaining momentum in Texas, this panel will explore the potential economic, social, and cultural impacts of expanding gaming opportunities in the state. From sports betting and casino gaming to destination developments, panelists will examine how Texas can balance regulation, revenue potential, and public interest. 

Glenn Hamer
President & CEO

Glenn Hamer, moderator

Texas Association of Business
Andy Abboud
Senior Vice President, Government Relations

Andy Abboud

Las Vegas Sands Corporation
Jeremy Kudon
Partner, State Legislative & Regulatory, Gaming & Gambling

Jeremy Kudon

Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP
Rick Limardo headshot1
Senior Vice President, Government Affairs

Rick Limardo

MGM Resorts International

11:00-11:45 a.m. Infrastructure for a Growing State 

As one of the fastest-growing states in the nation, Texas faces a unique set of challenges in maintaining and expanding its infrastructure. This panel will bring together experts and policymakers to address critical topics including transportation networks, energy systems, water resources, and other essential infrastructure components.

Jeremy Mazur
Director of Infrastructure and Natural Resources Policy

Jeremy Mazur, moderator

Texas 2036
Adriana Cruz
Executive Director, Texas Economic Development & Tourism

Adriana Cruz

Office of the Texas Governor
Alan Leonard
Director of Policy

Alan Leonard

Texas Water Foundation

12:00-2:00 p.m. "Polka and Politics"

After a morning of insightful discussions, join us at Krause’s just down the street for "Polka and Politics", a post-conference networking event. Unwind with fellow attendees over cold beers, bites, and great conversation in a relaxed setting. This is the perfect opportunity to connect with speakers and attendees while enjoying the festive atmosphere of one of New Braunfels’ iconic venues. 

Don’t miss the chance to learn, connect, and lead with Texas’s best and brightest.

Register today!