Strategic Intelligence
The Briefing Room
Insights, analysis, and perspective from JD Key analysts on Texas government affairs — helping business leaders navigate legislative and regulatory change.
Briefing Series
Texas Data Center Regulatory Watch
Navigate the most complex regulatory environment in data center history
SB 6 interconnection requirements, battery storage laws (HB 3809, HB 3824), foreign ownership restrictions, PUC rulemaking, water permits, local zoning, and tax incentives.
January 2026 Texas Laws
36 bills taking effect January 1, 2026
Property tax changes, app store regulation (SB 2420), R&D tax credits (SB 2206), real estate compliance, and workforce policy updates including SB 8.
What We Cover
Effective Date Analysis
When laws take effect, businesses need to understand compliance requirements, implementation timelines, and which agencies are writing the rules.
Agency Rulemaking
We track when agencies publish proposed rules, open comment periods, and hold hearings — the windows when businesses can shape implementation.
Industry Impact
Each briefing identifies which industries and business types are affected, with specific guidance on what the changes mean operationally.
Strategic Timing
We identify the optimal moments to engage — before rules are finalized, when agencies are most receptive to stakeholder input.
Why This Matters
Timing Is Everything
Rulemaking windows close before effective dates. Engage during the comment period or accept whatever agencies decide.
Interpretation Matters
The same statutory language can help or hurt your business depending on how agencies interpret it.
Relationships Count
Knowing who's writing the rules — and having credibility with them — determines whether your input gets consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Briefing Room?
The Briefing Room is JD Key Consulting's strategic intelligence resource for Texas business leaders. We analyze legislation and regulatory changes to help you understand what new laws mean for your business, when agencies are accepting stakeholder input, and how to engage in the rulemaking process.
How is The Briefing Room different from reading the news?
News coverage tells you what passed. The Briefing Room tells you what happens next. Most legislation requires agency implementation through rules and guidance. The Briefing Room tracks these rulemaking processes and identifies opportunities for businesses to shape how laws are interpreted and enforced.
How often is The Briefing Room updated?
We publish new briefings as significant legislation takes effect or when major regulatory developments occur. Each briefing series focuses on a specific effective date or topic area, with updates as agencies issue rules, guidance, and implementation timelines.
Can businesses influence how Texas agencies implement laws?
Yes. Texas agencies must follow the Administrative Procedure Act when implementing legislation. This includes publishing proposed rules, accepting public comments, and holding hearings. Businesses that engage during the comment period can provide industry perspective and potentially shape how rules are written. JD Key Consulting helps clients navigate this process.
Who writes The Briefing Room content?
The Briefing Room content is developed by JD Key Consulting analysts under the direction of James Dickey, former Chairman of the Republican Party of Texas. Our analysis draws on decades of experience in Texas government affairs, regulatory compliance, and political leadership.
Don't Just Read the Rules — Help Write Them
JD Key Consulting helps Texas businesses engage in the rulemaking process, shape agency interpretation, and advocate for their interests before the window closes.