The Texas Association of Manufacturers (TAM) commemorated its 20th anniversary at the 2025 Texas Manufacturers’ Day at the Capitol in Austin. This event brought together manufacturers from across Texas to engage with lawmakers and emphasize the importance of manufacturing to the state's economy, job market, and national security.
Tony Bennett, TAM's president and CEO, highlighted the significance of manufacturing in Texas: “While much has changed since TAM opened its doors 20 years ago, one thing remains the same: Texas manufacturing is a major contributor to the Texas Miracle and the more than the 847,000 Texans who work in this industry have revolutionized the economy, saved lives, and made Texas stronger. It is my distinct honor to represent them and grow manufacturing in the Lone Star State.”
Bennett also emphasized the importance of legislative support: “Texas Manufacturers’ Day at the Capitol is our opportunity to remind lawmakers of their continued policy leadership to keeping Texas on top. It’s no accident that Texas has been the number one exporting state for manufactured goods for more than two decades.”
During this legislative session, TAM urges state leaders to prioritize their "TAM Top 10" policy priorities aimed at maintaining Texas' status as a leading business environment. Bennett stated that “Global competition to attract advanced manufacturing has never been more intense and our priorities and policies must be laser-focused on competitiveness.”
TAM represents over 500 companies across various sectors, employing more than 847,000 Texans with average compensation significantly higher than other non-farm workers. Manufacturing contributes over $292 billion annually to Texas' output.
Water infrastructure was highlighted as a critical issue due to projected long-term supply deficits. Policymakers are encouraged to support innovative funding approaches for water infrastructure development.
In education, TAM supports flexible pathways in K-12 schools and higher education aligned with workforce needs. They advocate for strong career and technical education programs that offer early exposure to careers without necessitating four-year degrees.
On taxation issues, TAM opposes exempting certain businesses from franchise taxes as it shifts burdens unfairly. The organization supports competitive tax climates encouraging investment by new businesses.
TAM backs initiatives like the Jobs, Energy, Technology and Innovation (JETI) Act which provides temporary property tax discounts for economic development purposes.
Finally, they advocate for maintaining a competitive Research & Development Tax Exemption designed by previous legislatures to foster innovation within advanced manufacturing sectors.
