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A Report to the

Citizens of Texas

Sept. 1, 2010 – Aug. 31, 2011

This is Texas

The 2010 U.S. Census reveals that Texas’ growth over the past 10 years accounted for 15.7 percent of the nation’s total population growth, and 52 percent of the national growth of those under the age of 18. During that decade, our population increased by 4.3 million, or 20.6 percent — more than twice the national rate of 9.7 percent. In 2011 alone, Texas’ population increased by more than 400,000.

No place displayed more vibrancy in the job market than Texas according to Forbes magazine. The Lone Star State dominated the three size categories in the most recent annual Best Cities for Jobs list. Austin was ranked #1 among large metropolitan areas, with El Paso #1 for mid-sized cities and Killeen-Temple-Fort Hood #1 for small cities.

Job growth, automobile sales and sales tax from business and consumer purchases signaled the emergence of the Texas economy from the recent recession.

For the seventh consecutive year, Texas was chosen best state for business by more than 500 CEOs according to Chief Executive magazine. States were evaluated on a broad range of issues including regulations, tax policies, workforce quality, education resources, quality of living and infrastructure.

Energy Stays Strong

Generally high energy prices helped Texas oil and gas-related companies grow rapidly in the last five years, providing valuable support for the state during a recessionary period.

Health Service Jobs Growing

Jobs in health services are an important element in the growth of Texas’ employment, due in large part to a population that is both growing and aging. In 2011, the Texas Legislature appropriated $30 million for the Nursing Shortage Reduction Act in addition to the $444 million already appropriated for nursing education. Such commitments are crucial for the state to keep pace with the need for nursing professionals.

Texas Ranked Top in Business and Industry

Texas took the top spot in the 2011 Business Climate Rankings compiled by Site Selection magazine. Texas finished strong in both the objective by-the-numbers information and subjective input given by executives. Survey respondents described Texas as “a pro-business, entrepreneurial, right-to-work state” and noted “cooperation and flexibility of state and local officials; proactive in growing the economy.” During the latest legislative session, Texas continued reduced taxes for 40,000 small businesses.

Employment Percent by Industry

Industry	Employment
Administrative & Support/Waste Management	6%
Construction	6%
Public Administration	7%
Manufacturing	8%
Accommodation and Food Services	9%
Educational Services	11%
Retail Trade	11%
Health Care and Social Services	12%
All other Industries	30%

Source: TexasIndustryProfiles.com