More companies expanding in Texas on taxpayer’s dime

(The Center Square) – More companies are expanding in Texas on the taxpayer’s dime, including Ariat International and Southwest Airlines.

Ariat, a California-based company that designs and sells high quality performance equestrian footwear and apparel, is expanding its regional headquarters in Fort Worth, with the help of a taxpayer-funded $1.5 million Texas Enterprise Fund (TEF) grant. The expansion is expected to create 150 new jobs and make more than $8.9 million in capital investment in the region.

“Texas is the land of economic freedom and opportunity,” Gov. Greg Abbott said in a statement. “That’s why Texas is the No. 1 state in the nation for attracting new business investment and creating good-paying jobs.” Ariat’s $8.9 million expansion “showcases the strength of our state’s economy.”

“Fort Worth and the State of Texas have been an incredible partner in Ariat’s growth, and we’re proud to expand our presence here with this investment,” Co-founder and CEO of Ariat International Beth Cross said in a st...