SUMMARY: Southern states dominated the latest Site Selection magazine survey for the best business climate in the U.S. Georgia took the top spot, followed by North Carolina and South Carolina, with Texas dropping to fourth place, tied with Tennessee. Dallas ranked first for corporate headquarters relocations, followed by Charlotte and Atlanta. Key factors driving the South’s success include a strong workforce, favorable tax policies, and lower costs of living. Site selectors noted challenges such as labor shortages and affordable housing. California and New Jersey were cited as having the worst business climates due to their high tax rates.

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SUMMARY: As winter approaches, many renters are preparing their homes to protect against freezing temperatures. However, some landlords may turn off water to safeguard pipes, prompting questions about renters’ rights. Experts clarify that under Texas property law, landlords can only interrupt water service for repairs or emergencies, not for preventive measures. Attorney Donna Carney notes that if the water is shut off for a few hours with prior notice, tenants may have limited legal recourse. Renters should ensure they have water stored for hygiene needs. If water is shut off due to unpaid rent, that action is illegal and warrants legal advice.

As Houston prepares for freezing temperatures, KHOU 11 asked legal experts if Texas had any laws to prevent a landlord from shutting of your water to protect pipes. What rights do you have as a renter when facing freezing temperatures?

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SUMMARY: U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-TX, has introduced a bill aimed at enhancing American energy production, specifically targeting the Texas oil and natural gas industry. This legislation seeks to repeal a tax on natural gas from the Inflation Reduction Act, which Cruz claims hampers energy independence and exacerbates inflation. Additionally, he filed a bill to counter President Biden’s recent executive orders prohibiting offshore drilling in significant U.S. territories. Cruz argues these actions threaten jobs and national security, advocating for policies that reinforce energy independence, reflecting Texas’s substantial contributions to national oil and gas production and emissions reductions.

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