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Pharr Honors Service and Stewardship at 2026 State of the City

Roberto H. Gonzalez
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Pharr Honors Service and Stewardship at 2026 State of the City
Mayor Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez stands alongside the full Pharr City Commission and Evelyn Cano on stage as a large screen behind them reads “The Heart of Pharr” beside a red heart, marking the presentation of the Heart of Our Community Award during the 2026 State of the City address. Image by Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business
Mayor Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez stands alongside the full Pharr City Commission and Evelyn Cano on stage as a large screen behind them reads “The Heart of Pharr” beside a red heart, marking the presentation of the Heart of Our Community Award during the 2026 State of the City address. Image by Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business

Texas Border Business

By Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business

The City of Pharr closed its 2026 State of the City address by recognizing two examples of civic leadership: individual service to the community and long-term stewardship of public finances. Mayor Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez presented the Polo Palacios Service Award to Evelyn Cano and named the City of Pharr Finance Department as Department of the Year, citing their roles in strengthening inclusion and financial stability.

Members of the City of Pharr Finance Department, led by department leadership, accept the Department of the Year award on stage during the 2026 State of the City address, recognizing their role in maintaining the city’s financial stability and responsible management of public funds. Image by Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business

Cano received the Polo Palacios Service Award in recognition of her advocacy for individuals with disabilities and her work to promote inclusive economic opportunity in the Rio Grande Valley. During the ceremony, city officials described her as a longtime community leader whose efforts have focused on access, employment, and representation for people with disabilities. According to the city, the award honors individuals who embody service, commitment, and pride in Pharr.

Cano is the co-founder and executive director of the Disability Chamber of Commerce RGV, an organization that works with businesses and community partners to expand employment opportunities for people with disabilities. The chamber’s mission, as described during the event, is to ensure hiring practices are based on merit and capability and to foster collaboration between the business sector and the disability community.

In announcing the award, Mayor Hernandez said Cano’s work reflects the city’s values of purpose and inclusion. City officials also noted her record of civic engagement, including service on regional and statewide boards focused on disability rights and advocacy. The city awarded a $5,000 grant to the Disability Chamber of Commerce RGV to support its ongoing programs.

The city also introduced the inaugural Heart of Our Community Award, which was presented to the Disability Chamber of Commerce RGV. According to city officials, the new recognition is intended to honor organizations that prioritize service over recognition and provide sustained support to vulnerable populations. The award was described as a symbol of the city’s commitment to compassion and community partnership.

In addition to recognizing community advocacy, the city highlighted internal leadership by naming the City of Pharr Finance Department as Department of the Year. The announcement followed the mayor’s presentation on the city’s financial performance, including a balanced $290 million budget, an $11 million surplus, and $10 million added to reserves.

City leaders credited the Finance Department with maintaining fiscal discipline, overseeing taxpayer funds, and supporting long-term planning. During the address, Hernandez said the department played a central role in reducing expenses across city operations while preserving services. He described the team’s work as essential to keeping the city financially strong and prepared for future investments.

The Department of the Year award is given annually to recognize exceptional performance by a city department. Officials said the Finance Department’s recognition reflects consistent results over time, including budget management, financial reporting, and support for grant-funded projects that reduce reliance on local tax dollars.

Together, the awards underscored two themes emphasized throughout the State of the City address: that Pharr’s progress depends on both responsible management within city government and on individuals and organizations working to improve the quality of life across the community.

See related story:

Pharr Marks a Decade of Growth and Innovation

Clark Addresses Hundreds at 2026 State of American Business

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Clark Addresses Hundreds at 2026 State of American Business
U.S. Chamber President and CEO Suzanne P. Clark delivers the State of American Business address from Washington, DC. Image courtesy of US Chamber of Commerce
U.S. Chamber President and CEO Suzanne P. Clark delivers the State of American Business address from Washington, DC. Image courtesy of US Chamber of Commerce

Texas Border Business

By U.S. Chamber of Commerce

Hundreds of business executives, state and local Chamber leaders, policymakers, global partners and journalists gathered at U.S. Chamber headquarters for the 2026 State of American Business keynote address delivered by Chamber President and CEO Suzanne P. Clark.   

Clark’s message:  the state of American business must be “growth-oriented, market-driven,  future-focused—but above all, fearless.”   

The Path Toward Economic Growth 

Clark said that as America celebrates its 250th anniversary, leaders should embrace free market principles that historically have led to growth and opportunity.    

“Reaching and sustaining 3% growth is the fastest, surest way to raise living standards for Americans.  And that is a goal we all share,” said Clark.  “Making pro-growth policy choices will begin to alleviate the pressures and frustrations people are feeling today and ensure future generations of Americans enjoy security, mobility and opportunity. “    

Clark noted that embracing free enterprise stands in marked contrast to the alternatives—decisions that she said are based on fear.  

“Free enterprise is the system that enables businesses to respond to people and to respond to problems,” she said.  “We need it to solve the great challenges of our time—future generations will need it to solve the great challenges of their time.   But what could hold us back?  You might guess politics or public opinion.  But it’s much more essential than that—it’s fear.  Choosing redistribution over growth is a fear-based choice—it’s a zero-sum mentality that leads to scarcity, not abundance.  Government control over free-market forces is a fear-based choice—it’s a bet on bureaucracy, and a bet against people. We have to be fearless.”   

Lessons Learned from the Bicentennial Year 

Clark compared today’s moment to that of our nation’s last major milestone, the bicentennial in 1976—a time when Americans were feeling fear because the economy was languishing in large part due to too much government intervention.   

“Fifty years ago, the people had to make a choice between the two dominant worldviews of the era—an economy determined by the markets or an economy directed by the government,” Clark said. “They chose free enterprise … usher[ing] in a new era of growth, innovation, and investment fueled by low taxes, stable regulations, and robust trade.”   

Looking Ahead to the Next 50 Years 

Clark asked the audience to envision the next 50 years and the possibilities that exist for Americans driven by the free enterprise system with a focus on sustained 3% GDP growth and investments in education, R&D, and infrastructure.     

“These pro-growth policy choices begin to alleviate the pressures and frustrations people are feeling right now, today—and mean the girl born today will enjoy the security, mobility, and opportunity Americans dream of when she’s an adult,” Clark said.  “If we sustain 3% annual GDP growth, living standards will triple in the next 50 years. GDP per capita would rise from just over $69,000 to nearly $250,000, and the average household’s annual income would increase from nearly $150,000 to $528,000,”   

Clark ended with a note of optimism.  

“At our essence, at our core, we are not a fearful nation,” she said.  “It’s not in our DNA, but it has occurred in our history. And in those moments, we have demonstrated a remarkable capacity for renewal: Going back to our intrepid origins, reflecting on our remarkable innovations, and remembering who and what we are made of.  And I believe this can be a moment when we all decide it’s time to renew that spirit of daring, striving, growing, and improving.”   

Watch Clark’s Full address below:

Information source: U.S. Chamber of Commerce

Man with Prior Felony Convictions Receives 60‑Month Sentence for Reentering U.S

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Man with Prior Felony Convictions Receives 60‑Month Sentence for Reentering U.S
Rodriguez-Martinez has felony convictions for illegal reentry as well as multiple driving while intoxicated offenses. He was first removed from the United States in September 2014 and returned illegally again. Image for illustration purposes
Rodriguez-Martinez has felony convictions for illegal reentry as well as multiple driving while intoxicated offenses. He was first removed from the United States in September 2014 and returned illegally again. Image for illustration purposes

Texas Border Business

U.S. Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Texas

BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 42-year-old Mexican man has been sentenced for illegally reentering the United States.

Gabriel Rodriguez-Martinez pleaded guilty March 28, 2025.

U.S. District Judge Fernando Rodriguez Jr. has now ordered Rodriguez-Martinez to serve 60 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment.

Rodriguez-Martinez has felony convictions for illegal reentry as well as multiple driving while intoxicated offenses. He was first removed from the United States in September 2014 and returned illegally again.

Rodriguez-Martinez will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Immigration Customs Enforcement – Enforcement Removal Operations conducted the investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Ana C. Cano prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

Food Bank RGV to Receive More than 10,000 Dozen Eggs in Historic Paxton Settlement

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Food Bank RGV to Receive More than 10,000 Dozen Eggs in Historic Paxton Settlement
Attorney General Ken Paxton has finalized a major settlement with Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. (“Cal-Maine”), which includes Cal-Maine donating around 2,160,000 eggs to food banks across Texas. Image for illustration purposes
Attorney General Ken Paxton has finalized a major settlement with Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. (“Cal-Maine”), which includes Cal-Maine donating around 2,160,000 eggs to food banks across Texas. Image for illustration purposes

Texas Border Business

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. Image: X

Attorney General Ken Paxton has finalized a major settlement with Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. (“Cal-Maine”), which includes Cal-Maine donating around 2,160,000 eggs to food banks across Texas. Attorney General Paxton previously sued Cal-Maine, one of the largest egg suppliers in the state, in April 2020 for price gouging and illegally raising the cost of eggs by around 300 percent. 

“My office will crack down on any corporation illegally raising prices on Texans,” said Attorney General Paxton. “Cal-Maine tried to take advantage of the people of Texas during the COVID-19 pandemic, and this settlement is an important step towards securing justice for the company’s unethical actions. Our efforts to hold Cal-Maine accountable have secured reforms that will help prevent any further illegal price gouging and over two million free eggs that will be distributed by food banks across the state.” 

As part of the settlement, Cal-Maine will donate a total of 180,000 dozen large brown and/or white eggs to Texas food banks within the next 120 days. Details on the egg distribution are as follows:

  • At least 30,000 dozen Eggs to each of the following food banks: North Texas Food Bank and Houston Food Bank;
  • At least 20,000 dozen Eggs to each of the following food banks: Tarrant Area Food Bank; Central Texas Food Bank; and San Antonio Food Bank;
  • At least 10,000 dozen Eggs to each of the following food banks: Food Bank of the Rio Grande Valley; East Texas Food Bank; and El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank;
  • At least 5,000 dozen Eggs to each of the following food banks: Coastal Bend Food Bank; South Texas Food Bank; Southeast Texas Food Bank; and South Plains Food Bank; and
  • At least 2,000 dozen Eggs to each of the following food banks: High Plains Food Bank; West Texas Food Bank; Food Bank of West Central Texas; Food Bank of the Golden Crescent; and Wichita Falls Area Food Bank.

Additionally, Cal-Maine is barred from demanding a price or selling eggs during a designated disaster period at a price that would violate the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act, preventing any further price gouging similar to what the company did in 2020. The settlement can be found here. 

Information source: Office of Texas AG Paxton

STC Rolls Out AI Monitoring Platform

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STC Rolls Out AI Monitoring Platform
Faculty with South Texas College’s Division of Business, Public Safety and Technology (BPST) say they have developed an “Artificial Intelligence Tracker” initiative as they continue to assess AI’s potential applications in all of the division’s programs. STC AI liaison Erika Guerra (above) meets with faculty during a recent BSPT division meeting held at the college’s Pecan Campus. STC image
Faculty with South Texas College’s Division of Business, Public Safety and Technology (BPST) say they have developed an “Artificial Intelligence Tracker” initiative as they continue to assess AI’s potential applications in all of the division’s programs. STC AI liaison Erika Guerra (above) meets with faculty during a recent BSPT division meeting held at the college’s Pecan Campus. STC image

Texas Border Business

By Joey Gomez

McALLEN, Texas – Leadership within South Texas College’s Division of Business, Public Safety and Technology (BPST) say they have developed an “Artificial Intelligence Tracker” initiative as they enter the halfway point into a year-long effort to assess AI’s potential applications in all of the Division’s programs.

Offering an update on the initiative at BPST’s recent spring 2026 division meeting, STC Advanced Manufacturing Technology Department Chair and AI liaison Erika Guerra said she developed the tracker after meeting with departments to map where AI tools fit into existing coursework.

But the expectations are much higher, according to Guerra. The effort is part of a much larger effort by the college overall to ensure that graduates are ready for changing workforce expectations.

“The purpose of this AI tracker is that we are able to identify artificial intelligence being used in very specific industries,” Guerra said. “We are all coming together to help departments design ways to incorporate AI into our curriculum, labs and projects while tracking its overall use by the program.”

Guerra noted that programs have already begun embedding AI into its curriculum, with about 34% integrating CoPilot, about 24% applying ChatGPT and 15% implementing various AI tools. 

BPST division leaders emphasized that the effort is aimed at strengthening instruction rather than replacing hands-on instruction. Guerra said BPST is highly focused on ensuring that AI’s adoption is industry driven, while highlighting its enhancement to instruction.

BPST Interim Dean Joe Vela said the division began discussing AI integration as part of its broader goals and asked Guerra to serve as the point of contact for the initiative. Vela told BPST faculty that the tracker can help STC stay ahead as employers increasingly expect AI familiarity.

“From my perspective, what I see is that it’s only a matter of time before our students are coming to work and somebody says, ‘What’s your experience with AI,’” Vela said.

The AI tracker itself reflects varied levels of adoption depending on the field, Guerra said, adding that some programs are identifying industry-specific applications they want to incorporate, while others may not use AI in certain courses.

“I look forward to working with all departments and hearing that we are moving the AI needle a little bit more every semester,” Guerra said.

For more information about the utilization of artificial intelligence at STC, visit https://www.southtexascollege.edu/ai/.

Information source: STC

State Leadership Highlights Support for Veterans at VFW Conference

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State Leadership Highlights Support for Veterans at VFW Conference
The Governor was joined by VFW State Commander Dave Walden, VFW Officer of the Day Willie Keller, VFW State Chaplain Jim Russell, and other veterans and advocates. Photo: Office of The Governor
The Governor was joined by VFW State Commander Dave Walden, VFW Officer of the Day Willie Keller, VFW State Chaplain Jim Russell, and other veterans and advocates. Photo: Office of The Governor

Texas Border Business

CORPUS CHRISTI — Governor Greg Abbott delivered remarks at the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Mid-Winter conference, which honors the brave service members who served our nation on foreign lands.  

Governor abbot along with State Commander Dave Walden. Photo: Office of Thew Governor

“We wouldn’t be America today without those willing to fight and defend our freedom and our country across the entire globe,” said Governor Abbott. “It is essential to the future of our country that Texans at every age level know who you are and what it is that you did. As long as I’m your Governor, you have a Governor who has the back of Texas veterans.” 

The Governor was joined by VFW State Commander Dave Walden, VFW Officer of the Day Willie Keller, VFW State Chaplain Jim Russell, and other veterans and advocates.

A corpus Chisto VFW welcome for Governor Abbott. Photo: Office of The Governor

During his remarks, Governor Abbott thanked the men and women who put on the uniform and serve their country abroad. The Governor highlighted that because of their bravery, Texas is the home base of America’s military might with more than 1.7 million veterans and active military. Additionally, Governor Abbott mentioned that he signed House Joint Resolution 133 to make the franchise tax exemption for veteran-owned businesses permanent, and designated $50 million for ibogaine clinical trials – a potential medication that could improve the lives of veterans. 

Abbott Directs State Agencies to Probe Possible Medicaid Fraud

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Abbott Directs State Agencies to Probe Possible Medicaid Fraud
At the Governor’s direction, HHSC will further implement anti-fraud measures and launch investigations into potential fraud and misdirection of Texas taxpayer dollars to protect taxpayers, preserve access for eligible Texans, and maintain the integrity of Texas’ Medicaid program. Image for illustration purposes

Texas Border Business

AUSTIN — Governor Greg Abbott sent a letter directing the Texas Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General and the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to launch investigations into potential Medicaid fraud in Texas to safeguard taxpayer funds, maintain access for eligible Texans, and ensure efficient, high-quality healthcare delivery.

“Texas provides critical healthcare services to children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with disabilities through the state’s Medicaid program,” reads the letter. “Access to medical services is a key component in supporting these individuals and Medicaid fraud robs taxpayers and impairs their ability to receive necessary healthcare. During my tenure as Governor, Texas has policed the Medicaid program and proactively combatted fraud, but we will strengthen our efforts to further protect taxpayers, preserve access for eligible Texans, and maintain the integrity of Texas’ Medicaid Program.”

At the Governor’s direction, HHSC will further implement anti-fraud measures and launch investigations into potential fraud and misdirection of Texas taxpayer dollars to protect taxpayers, preserve access for eligible Texans, and maintain the integrity of Texas’ Medicaid program.

Governor Abbott is taking action to eliminate potential fraud in publicly funded services and protect taxpayer dollars by: 

  • Directing investigations into potential child care funding fraud
  • Volunteering Texas to participate in the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development pilot program that seeks to eliminate fraud in federal affordable housing programs 

Read the Governor’s letter here or below:

Report suspected fraud, waste, or abuse in Texas’ Medicaid program here. 

Texas Unveils TexStats Portal to Give Businesses Real‑Time Economic Insights

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Texas Unveils TexStats Portal to Give Businesses Real‑Time Economic Insights
As business leaders, we embrace not only sound policy, but also the tools that help businesses large and small continue to thrive. Image for illustration purposes
As business leaders, we embrace not only sound policy, but also the tools that help businesses large and small continue to thrive. Image for illustration purposes

Texas Border Business

Megan Mauro, Interim President & CEO, Texas Association of Business. Image: LinkedIN

By Megan Mauro, Interim President & CEO, Texas Association of Business

As business leaders, we embrace not only sound policy, but also the tools that help businesses large and small continue to thrive.

Last week, Acting Texas Comptroller Kelly Hancock unveiled a new, important resource, the TexStats Statewide Economic Dashboard, which brings Texas’ key economic indicators together under a single, easy to navigate portal, including:

  • Gross State Product (GSP), the total value of goods and services produced in Texas, underscoring the scale of the state’s economy
  • Employment and workforce trends, tracking jobs, unemployment, and labor force participation
  • Oil and natural gas rig counts, production, and prices, critical indicators for a cornerstone of Texas’ economic output
  • Housing market indicators, including home sales, median home prices, and housing inventory
  • Inflation measures, helping businesses and consumers assess purchasing power and price trends
Sample of the data available at TexStats Statewide Economic Dashboard

Taken together, the dashboard reflects a Texas economy operating at historically strong levels, with employment and labor force participation near peak levels. Energy production remains elevated, reinforcing Texas’ role as a national economic and energy anchor, while housing markets show normalization rather than collapse, signaling resilience. Inflation remains present but clearly tracked and moderating from prior peaks, providing businesses with clearer signals for planning and investment decisions.

The new statewide portal provides entrepreneurs, CEOs, site selectors, and community leaders the real time data they need to make informed decisions about expansion, hiring, and capital investment. These indicators serve as critical business intelligence that helps drive investment, support job creation, and attract entrepreneurs seeking to build the next generation of Texas companies.

At the Texas Association of Business, this type of data access directly aligns with our core priorities. Championing the best business climate in the world requires more than strong policy positions. It requires timely, credible information that allows employers to anticipate change, respond to market signals, and engage policymakers with facts.

When business leaders, lawmakers, and agencies are working from the same data, decisions are more predictable, more competitive, and more responsive to the needs of job creators.

Tools like the TexStats dashboard reinforce a business climate that rewards innovation, investment, and growth, and help ensure Texas remains a place where employers can expand with confidence and communities can attract opportunity.

To view the Texas Comptroller’s new TexStats Statewide Economic Dashboard, click here.

  -Megan Mauro, Interim President & CEO, Texas Association of Business

TDA Warns Texans After Another Spike in Unidentified Seed Shipments from China

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TDA Warns Texans After Another Spike in Unidentified Seed Shipments from China
"These packages are pouring in faster and further than ever before," Commissioner Miller said. "They may look innocent, but the danger is real." -- Commissioner Miller. Image courtesy of TDA
“These packages are pouring in faster and further than ever before,” Commissioner Miller said. “They may look innocent, but the danger is real.” — Commissioner Miller. Image courtesy of TDA

Texas Border Business

AUSTIN — Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller and the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) today warned Texans of a sharp spike in unsolicited packages delivering unidentified seeds. As of January 15, 2026, TDA has already collected 126 packets this year alone, with reports surging dramatically since the agency’s January 5 alert.

“These packages are pouring in faster and further than ever before,” Commissioner Miller said. “They may look innocent, but the danger is real. One invasive species, pest, or pathogen could devastate Texas farms, ranches, natural resources, and food supply. We cannot gamble with Texas agriculture.”

Since the resurgence of reports began in early 2025, TDA has coordinated seed package pickups in dozens of Texas counties. See a map of Texas counties where pickups by TDA officials have occurred here.

This echoes the nationwide “mystery seed” wave first seen in 2020, many tied to potential brushing scams. TDA is collaborating with state and federal partners to investigate origins, test contents, and ensure safe disposal. TDA is also working to determine if these shipments are disproportionately targeting Texas. Regardless of the motive, the biosecurity risk is serious: invasive plants, pests, or diseases could cause significant damage.

What to do if you receive unsolicited seeds:
Do NOT open or plant the contents.
Keep the packet sealed in its original packaging.
Contact TDA immediately at 1-800-TELL-TDA for safe handling and collection instructions.

“Texans need to stay sharp,” Commissioner Miller urged. “Report every suspicious package. We can’t take any chances that might jeopardize our producers, the environment, or food security. Together, we can stop this threat before it takes root. Please report seed package deliveries to protect Texas.”

See related story:

China-Linked to Suspicious Seed Packages Sent to U.S. Homes

Senators Unveil Bipartisan Bill to Boost NASA–Industry Collaboration

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Senators Unveil Bipartisan Bill to Boost NASA–Industry Collaboration
By creating the Public Private Talent Exchange Program (PPTE) within NASA, the bipartisan NASA Talent Exchange Program Act would create partnership opportunities that can further grow expertise across government. Image for illustration purposes
By creating the Public Private Talent Exchange Program (PPTE) within NASA, the bipartisan NASA Talent Exchange Program Act would create partnership opportunities that can further grow expertise across government. Image for illustration purposes

Texas Border Business

Senator John Cornyn

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Alex Padilla (D-CA) introduced legislation to drive space innovation in America through fostering collaboration between NASA and the commercial space industry. By creating the Public Private Talent Exchange Program (PPTE) within NASA, the bipartisan NASA Talent Exchange Program Act would create partnership opportunities that can further grow expertise across government. 

Read the full text of the NASA Talent Exchange Program Act here. 

“As America continues to make advances in space exploration and technology, it’s important for our astronauts and researchers to be able to collaborate with the private sector to bolster our competitive edge,” said Senator Cornyn. “I’m proud to join my colleagues on this legislation to create a talent exchange program, which would help improve knowledge transfer and skill development for NASA’s missions.” 

“The era of looking to the stars to see the future has only just begun, and by continuing to drive American innovation we help make a bright future possible for our country. This initiative is an important tool to make sure we are unlocking the full potential of talent across government and the space industry who are leading the way with groundbreaking technologies and securing America’s place as the space leader globally,” said Senator Kim.

“Public-private partnerships are crucial for innovation and economic development. Allowing leaders from NASA and top companies to participate in a fellowship will improve modernization and ensure the United States’ space program remains the best in the world. We are engaged in a 21st century space race. Congress must provide resources to ensure the United States’ success,” said Senator Wicker. 

“Collaboration between NASA and our growing aerospace industry is crucial to advance America’s space leadership and groundbreaking innovations,” said Senator Padilla.“As budget cuts and mass layoffs at NASA centers in California and across the country jeopardize scientific research, our bipartisan bill will strengthen our global competitiveness and improve cooperation with space science experts by establishing a public-private talent exchange program.” 

Background:

The PPTE would be a professional development program focused on giving NASA and industry professionals an opportunity to gain exposure and experience in a variety of subject and skill areas. Specifically, it would assign NASA employees into industry posts, as well as place industry professionals into positions at NASA. The exchanges would last between three months to two years with options to extend for an additional year. The PPTE is modeled after a similar initiative that the Department of Defense has operated since 2018 and that has allowed the Department of Defense to forge partnerships with private sector companies and swap business practices for the betterment of both parties. 

The NASA Talent Exchange Program Act has previously been introduced in the House of Representatives and Senate. It was also previously included in the NASA reauthorization legislative proposal (NASA Reauthorization Act) to look after NASA’s success and help maintain American space leadership. The full NASA authorization process has historically been a bipartisan effort considered every few years. 

Information source: The Office of Senator Cornyn

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