About Anne Idsal Austin
Anne Idsal Austin is a nationally recognized leader in environmental and energy law with a career that spans influential roles in both public service and private practice. As the founder of Austin Legal & Public Affairs, Anne works with clients to navigate the shifting regulatory landscape, providing solutions that align business needs with environmental priorities.
With a deep understanding of state and federal policy, Anne has built her career helping industries adapt to change while fostering economic growth. Her ability to address complex legal challenges with innovative approaches has made her a trusted advisor to clients across Texas and beyond
Career and Experience
Anne’s legal journey includes key leadership roles across public and private sectors, where she has influenced environmental and energy policy at the highest levels. As the founder of Austin Legal & Public Affairs, she provides strategic counsel to clients navigating regulatory challenges in an era of energy transition and environmental innovation.
Prior to founding her firm, Anne served as the Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Air & Radiation (OAR), where she led efforts to shape U.S. clean air policy and regulatory programs. Before that, she was the EPA Regional Administrator for Region 6, overseeing environmental programs across Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and New Mexico.
Anne’s state government experience includes serving as Chief Clerk and Deputy Land Commissioner for the Texas General Land Office, where she developed and implemented key environmental and energy initiatives. She also served as General Counsel for the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, advising on critical environmental regulatory issues.
In private practice, Anne was an environmental partner at a prominent AmLaw 100 firm, representing regulated clients before state and federal agencies. Currently, she also serves as a Senior Advisor to the Burke Law Group’s Environmental, Health & Safety Group, providing additional strategic guidance to clients in the energy and industrial sectors.
Recognition and Education
Anne is nationally recognized for her contributions to environmental and energy law. She has received numerous accolades, including:
- 2024 Outstanding Service in Leadership Award, State Bar of Texas Environmental & Natural Resources Law Section
- Recognition by Best Lawyers for Environmental Law (2024)
- Inclusion in Lawdragon’s lists as a Leading Environmental & Energy Lawyer (2021, 2022), Leader in Environmental Law (2023), and Leading U.S. Energy Lawyer (2023)
In addition to her legal practice, Anne is a sought-after thought leader. She has authored articles and spoken at high-profile events, including the Texas Environmental Superconference, domestic energy policy forums, and U.S. Senate hearings on regulatory and environmental policy.
Anne earned her J.D. from Baylor University School of Law and her B.A. in Politics from Washington and Lee University. She is admitted to practice in Texas and the District of Columbia.