04/14/2026
COURT BLOCKS TEXAS COMPTROLLER’S HUB PROGRAM CHANGES, AFFIRMING LEGISLATIVE AUTHORITY AND RULE OF LAW
Judge grants temporary injunction, citing executive overreach and harm to Texas businesses
AUSTIN, Texas (April 13, 2026) — A Travis County District Court has issued a temporary injunction halting recent changes to Texas’ Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) program implemented by Texas Comptroller Kelly Hancock. The court ruled that the executive branch does not have the authority to unilaterally alter a law enacted by the Legislature.
In her order, Judge Amy Clark Meachum made it clear that the Comptroller exceeded his authority, stating, “It is well settled law that the executive branch enforces the law but cannot alter pre-existing law.”
The court further determined that the Comptroller “lacks the authority to determine the constitutionality of the HUB Act” and found that the rule changes would cause “immediate, irreparable injury” to affected businesses.
The ruling in Globe Express Trucking Inc., et al. v. Kelly Hancock, et al. halts enforcement of the Comptroller’s emergency regulations and restores the HUB program to its status prior to December 1, 2025—for the named plaintiffs—unless the law is amended by the Legislature or ruled unconstitutional by a court.
“This is a clear and unequivocal statement that the Comptroller violated the law,” said Alphonso David, President & CEO of the Global Black Economic Forum and co-lead counsel for the plaintiffs. “Judge Meachum affirmed what we have argued from the beginning: the executive branch cannot rewrite laws passed by the Legislature. This is a victory for the rule of law and for the thousands of businesses whose livelihoods were put at risk.”
The injunction currently applies to the six named plaintiffs, though the court acknowledged the decision may have broader implications for similarly situated businesses.
“That’s why this case matters beyond Texas,” said Adam Schuman of Petrillo Klein + Boxer LLP, co-lead counsel for the plaintiffs. “What’s at stake is whether state officials can bypass legislatures through rulemaking—and today, the court made clear the answer is no.”
What’s Next
The court has scheduled a final trial for November 9, 2026, as the case moves forward. Legal experts anticipate the State will appeal the ruling, signaling that the legal battle is far from over.
Plaintiffs and supporters are encouraging businesses, advocates, and stakeholders to stay engaged and support ongoing efforts to defend the integrity of the HUB program and uphold the rule of law.
The Global Black Economic Forum, Freedom Economy, and American Pride Rises are supporting the litigation alongside a coalition of business and civil rights organizations.