New House select committee to address Texas coastal challenges

Joe Deshotel (Jefferson and Orange Counties)​​​​ is chairman, and Dennis Paul (Harris County) is vice-chairman. Other members are Wayne Faircloth (Chambers and Galveston Counties), Craig Goldman (Tarrant County), Tracy King (Dimmit, Frio, Uvalde, Webb, Zapata, and Zavala Counties), Geanie Morrison (Aransas, Calhoun, DeWitt, Goliad, Refugio, and Victoria Counties), René Oliveira (Cameron County), Evelina "Lina" Ortega (El Paso County)​​, Dade Phelan (Jefferson and Orange Counties), Kevin Roberts (Harris County), and Justin Rodriguez (Bexar County).

According to the proclamation for the committee:

"Texas ports connect to global markets across a vast array of industries. The advent of ‘megaships,’ expansion of the Panama Canal, and Mexico’s project to reform its energy sector are transforming global transportation networks and markets. To ensure Texas is able to take full advantage of these innovations and other economic opportunities presented by its ports, the committee shall review Texas ports’ infrastructure including inland borders and border ports of entry. The committee shall also analyze changes to the global trade landscape and the preparedness of Texas ports and border ports of entry to capitalize on those changes. Further, the committee shall identify the near- and long-term challenges facing Texas ports and border points of entry and propose solutions to address those needs."

Texas has 367 miles of coastline.​