The Future of Black and Other Minority Businesses Is at Stake!
The Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce is on high alert as we monitor bills that could devastate Black and other minority-owned businesses, along with entire communities, if passed in September 2025. These bills don’t just threaten livelihoods—they threaten dreams, opportunities, and economic progress.
Through relentless advocacy, we are bringing these hidden dangers to light, rallying for civic engagement, and fighting to stop laws that could cripple our city, state, and nation. We refuse to let these policies slip through the cracks!
MONITORING: HB167, HB3573, HB4784 & HB3187
HB3187
A bill relating to powers of regional transportation authorities.
● Proposed By : Rep. Mathew Shaheen (R – 66)
If Texas HB 3187 is passed, it could have several negative effects, particularly on public transportation and local economies. Here are the key concerns:
- Reduced Public Transit Funding
● The bill diverts 25% of sales tax revenue from DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) to non-transit infrastructure projects, cutting funding for buses, trains, and other transit services
● This could lead to service reductions, longer wait times, and fewer transit options for riders.
- Weakened Transit Infrastructure
● Public transit expansion and maintenance could be delayed due to fewer funds, making it harder to improve or expand rail and bus lines.
● Critical upgrades or expansions to transit systems may be postponed or canceled altogether.
- Negative Economic Impact
● Businesses and workers rely on transit; a weakened system could make commuting more difficult, leading to lower job access and economic slowdown in urban areas.
● Potential job losses in the public transit sector due to funding cuts.
- Increased Traffic Congestion & Pollution
● With fewer public transit options, more people may turn to cars, increasing traffic congestion and worsening air pollution.
● Roads may become more crowded, leading to longer commutes and higher transportation costs for individuals.
- Unstable Transit Funding Model
● The bill allows cities to hold exit referendums every three years instead of every six, making transit authorities like DART vulnerable to instability.
● A city withdrawing from the system could further shrink funding, causing service reductions for remaining cities.
- Potential Legal and Financial Challenges
● Changing tax allocations could create contractual and bond repayment issues, impacting DART’s ability to take on future projects.
● Future financial uncertainty could reduce investor confidence in Texas transit bonds.
In summary, HB 3187 could significantly weaken Texas’s public transportation system, harming commuters, businesses, and economic growth.
HB167
A bill relating to the implementation of diversity, equality and inclusion initiatives and certain prohibited consecrations in contracting by government entities.
● Proposed By: Rep. Carl Tepper (R – 84)
Texas House Bill 167 (HB 167) could have various negative effects if passed, depending on its specific provisions. While I would need more details on the bill’s exact text, potential concerns based on common legislative impacts include:
- Economic and Business Impact
● If the bill imposes stricter regulations or restrictions on certain industries, it could discourage business growth or investment in Texas.
● Small businesses might face increased costs or compliance burdens, leading to closures or layoffs.
- Social and Community Consequences
● If the bill affects marginalized communities (e.g., limiting access to services, education, or employment), it could increase inequality.
● It may disproportionately impact minority-owned businesses or lower-income individuals if it includes restrictive economic policies.
- Legal and Constitutional Challenges
● Depending on the bill’s scope, it could face legal challenges for violating constitutional rights or federal laws.
● Unclear or vague language in the bill could lead to confusion and costly legal battles.
- Public Services and Infrastructure
● If the bill cuts funding for social programs, healthcare, or education, it could negatively affect Texas residents, especially vulnerable populations.
● Reductions in public services could strain local governments and nonprofits, forcing them to fill the gaps.
HB 3573
A bill relating to certain prohibited consideration in contracting by governmental entities and the elimination of historically underutilized business programs.
● Proposed By: Rep. Don McLaughlin (R-80)
Texas House Bill 3573 (HB 3573) aims to eliminate the state’s Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) program and prohibit governmental entities from considering factors like race, ethnicity, gender identity, or sexual orientation in contracting decisions If passed, this bill could have several negative effects:
- Reduced Opportunities for Minority-Owned Businesses – The HUB program was designed to provide equal opportunities for businesses owned by historically marginalized groups. Eliminating it could disproportionately impact minority- and women-owned businesses, making it harder for them to compete for state contracts.
- Economic Disparities – The HUB program helps bridge economic gaps by ensuring diverse business participation in state contracts. Without it, wealth disparities among communities could widen, potentially limiting economic growth and job creation in underrepresented areas.
- Legal Challenges and Federal Compliance Issues – Similar laws in other states have faced legal challenges for potentially violating civil rights protections. Texas could face lawsuits if the bill is perceived as discriminatory or conflicting with federal affirmative action policies.
- Reduced Supplier Diversity – Many large organizations and government entities emphasize supplier diversity as a best practice. Removing the HUB program may discourage businesses from investing in Texas or partnering with state agencies due to a lack of inclusivity.
- Negative Impact on Economic Development Initiatives – The HUB program often encourages entrepreneurship among historically disadvantaged groups. Removing it could stifle innovation and economic progress by limiting support for these businesses.
HB 4784
A bill relating to a prohibition on diversity equity and inclusion by state agencies.
● Proposed By – Rep. Brian Harrison (R -10)
Texas House Bill 4784 (HB 4784) seeks to prohibit diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in state agencies. If passed, potential negative effects could include:
- Reduced Representation and Support for Minority Communities
○ By banning DEI policies, state agencies may lose programs designed to address historical inequities, potentially leading to less inclusive hiring and workplace environments.
- Impact on Workforce and Talent Retention
○ Many businesses and institutions value DEI efforts to create diverse workplaces. Removing these initiatives could discourage skilled professionals from working in Texas state agencies, leading to talent shortages.
- Legal and Economic Consequences
○ Prohibiting DEI initiatives might lead to lawsuits from organizations and individuals who argue that such measures violate federal civil rights laws.
○ Texas could face economic repercussions if companies and investors who prioritize DEI decide to relocate or withdraw business from the state.
- Effects on Education and Training
○ Universities and government institutions often incorporate DEI policies in their training and curricula. This bill could limit discussions about racial and social disparities, potentially affecting academic freedom and student preparedness for diverse work environments.
- Federal Funding Risks
○ Federal programs often require compliance with DEI-related standards. Restricting DEI policies could jeopardize Texas’s access to certain federal grants and funding streams.
Overall, HB 4784 could significantly alter how Texas state agencies operate, potentially making the state less appealing for diverse professionals and businesses while limiting opportunities for historically marginalized communities.
Your voice matters! If there’s a bill that concerns you, let us know—we’re in this fight together!
