The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is marking the 40th anniversary of its "Don’t mess with Texas" campaign, first launched on January 1, 1986. The original advertisement featured musician Stevie Ray Vaughan during a Cotton Bowl football game, introducing what would become one of the state’s most recognized anti-litter initiatives.
To commemorate four decades of the campaign, TxDOT has introduced new public service announcements featuring music artist Post Malone. Malone, who grew up in Grapevine, Texas, appears in television and radio spots that reference the original ad with Vaughan. The core message remains: “Don’t mess with Texas means don’t litter.”
“As we mark the 40th anniversary, it’s wonderful to not only look back at the old commercials that helped spark this iconic message, but see how the newest generation is lending their voice to helping keep our state clean and beautiful,” said TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams. “The Don’t mess with Texas campaign has been incredibly successful over the years, but it’s imperative we continue to remind people that Don’t mess with Texas means don’t litter.”
The campaign was created in response to growing concerns about litter along Texas highways and aimed to leverage Texans’ pride and connection to their state. Over time, it has grown into a prominent behavior-change effort by involving notable figures from music, film and popular culture. Previous participants include Willie Nelson, George Strait, Eva Longoria, Matthew McConaughey and others.
TxDOT continues its commitment through ongoing efforts such as annual community litter pick-up events and its Adopt-a-Highway volunteer program. The agency encourages all residents to participate in keeping roadways clean for future generations.
Founded in 1917 as the Texas Highway Department and now headquartered in Austin, TxDOT oversees planning, construction and maintenance of transportation infrastructure across the state. Its responsibilities include managing highways, public transit systems and general aviation airports throughout Texas (official website). TxDOT operates under the governance of the Texas Transportation Commission (official website) and aims to enhance mobility while supporting economic growth statewide (official website).
For more details about "Don’t mess with Texas" or to view current public service announcements, visit dontmesswithtexas.org.
