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April 11, 2019
In 2018, the Democrats were within less than 1% of unseating the Texas House District 138 incumbent, Dwayne Bohac. There is no doubt that this legislative race will remain in the spotlight of Texas politics in 2020.
From Akilah Bacy Campaign
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April 11, 2019
A new report released by the Alliance for Safety and Justice revealed the many ways Texas crime survivors are impacted by crime, what they need from the criminal justice system to recover and heal, and how state policy can better align with their safety priorities. It found that 4 in 10 Texans have been victims of crime in the past 10 years, with many experiencing trauma, stress, anxiety and fear as a result.
From Alliance for Safety and Justice
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April 18, 2019
In the wake of a new report released by the Alliance for Safety and Justice showing that Texas crime victims support changes to probation that prioritize rehabilitation over incarceration, a key Texas House committee today voted in favor of reforms to the state’s probation system.
From Alliance For Safety And Justice
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April 15, 2019
The Alliance for Securing and Strengthening the Economy in Texas today released the following statement regarding Senate passage of Senate Bills 2485 and 2487, which make certain employment regulations consistent across Texas:
“Consistent employment regulations are a statewide issue affecting statewide competitiveness and need a statewide solution.
From Alliance for Securing and Strengthening the Economy
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April 17, 2019
The Alliance for Securing and Strengthening the Economy in Texas today released the following statement regarding Senate passage of Senate Bills 2486 and 2488, which make certain employment regulations consistent across Texas:
From Alliance for Securing and Strengthening the Economy in Texas
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April 9, 2019
Alzheimer’s Texas hosted advocates from across the state of Texas for Alzheimer’s Awareness Day on April 3rd. Supporters gathered at the Capitol to increase awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and its impact on Texas families. That morning, First Lady Cecilia Abbott warmly welcomed the Alzheimer’s advocates.
From Alzheimer's Texas
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April 9, 2019
There are wind farms or factories supplying the industry in all 50 states, but no state exemplifies these trends better than Texas. The Lone Star State is home to roughly a quarter of all U.S. wind power capacity. If Texas were a country, it would rank fifth in the world for wind power capacity with nearly 25,000 megawatts (MW) installed.
From American Wind Energy Association
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March 25, 2019
On Monday, March 25th, Senator Carol Alvarado along with Members of the Texas Senate will be honoring the Houston Astros for their triumphant win of the 2017 World Series. In the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, the worst storm our city has faced, the Astros exemplified #HoustonStrong resilience and determination during their postseason march toward Houston's first ever World Series championship.
From Carol Alvarado Campaign
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April 16, 2019
Today the Texas Senate voted to approve a strong proposal that would help combat surprise medical billing statewide.
In response, CPPP Senior Policy Analyst Stacey Pogue issued the following statement:
From Center for Public Policy Priorities
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April 15, 2019
This afternoon the Texas Senate gave preliminary approval to a proposal that would limit the ability of cities and counties to decide how much to devote to police, fire, paramedics, and other local services. The bill will be heard again later today or tomorrow for a “third reading” and final passage.
From Center for Public Policy Priorities
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March 21, 2019
Surprise medical bills are all too common in Texas, and recent polling shows consumers now list surprise medical bills as their top pocketbook concern.
In a medical emergency, patients must rush to the nearest emergency room. Patients can’t “shop around” to find doctors and ERs in their insurer’s network.
From Center for Public Policy Priorities
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April 15, 2019
This evening the Texas Senate voted 18-12 to approve a pair of extreme bills (Senate Bills 2485 and 2487) that -- if allowed to become law -- would limit decisions city and county leaders can make about how best to protect workers and families in their communities.
In response, CPPP Legislative and Policy Director Luis Figueroa issued the following statement:
From Center for Public Policy Priorities
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April 10, 2019
Today Governor Abbott, Lieutenant Governor Patrick and Speaker Bonnen announced that they will introduce a proposal to raise sales taxes to limit property tax growth.
In response CPPP CEO Ann Beeson released the following statement:
“Swapping a higher sales tax to limit property tax growth is the wrong approach for two main reasons. First, the sales tax takes the most from Texans who have the least.
From Center for Public Policy Priorities
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April 9, 2019
Today the Texas Senate passed its $247.7 billion state budget proposal for 2020-2021. This follows House passage of a similar $251 billion budget last month. The budget proposals now move to a conference committee to iron out differences.
In response, CPPP CEO Ann Beeson issued the following statement:
From Center for Public Policy Priorities
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April 3, 2019
Today the Texas House of Representatives passed a landmark public education bill, HB 3 by Public Education Committee Chairman Dan Huberty.
In response, CPPP CEO Ann Beeson released the following statement:
“We applaud Chairman Huberty and everyone who has worked to pass this important school finance bill.
From Center for Public Policy Priorities
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March 28, 2019
After over 12 hours of deliberation, the Texas House of Representatives passed its $251 billion state budget proposal for 2020-2021. The House also passed Senate Bill 500, a spending plan that provides supplemental funds for Hurricane Harvey recovery, public education, teacher and state employee retirement, transportation, social services, and 2019 Medicaid expenses.
From Center for Public Policy Priorities
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March 21, 2019
Texas television viewers were inundated by more than 190,000 advertisements for legal services in the state’s three largest media markets over a six-month period last year – far more than for services like pizza delivery or hardware stores – according to a new report by the American Tort Reform Association (ATRA). The study examined the prevalence of legal advertising in Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio, and found that legal services accounted for a staggering $23.4 million in ad buys during the period studied.
From Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse of Central Texas
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March 25, 2019
A new study demonstrates the importance of critical infrastructure investment to grow the Texas economy and the economic fallout that would result from infrastructure constraints.
The study – “Critical Infrastructure for Texas Growth” – released by the Coalition for Critical Infrastructure (CCI), explains that infrastructure capacity constraints can be “severely limiting” and that “a significant portion of forecasted growth of the Texas economy is at risk without infrastructure investment.”
From Coalition For Critical Infrastructure
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March 21, 2019
A new study released today demonstrates the importance of critical infrastructure investment to grow the Texas economy and the economic fallout that would result from infrastructure constraints.
From Coalition For Critical Infrastructure
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March 21, 2019
To protect the Texas energy industry and thousands of contract workers in the state, the Coalition for Energy Jobs launched today to advocate for the end of predatory and invalid non-compete clauses used by energy staffing firms.
From Coalition for Energy Jobs
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April 17, 2019
Rice farmers are asking for immediate enforcement of a court order against an alleged polluter of Skull Creek, a tributary of the Colorado River, which provides irrigation water to grow rice.
The toxic spill does not pose any immediate risks to rice crops currently being planted and farmers want to keep it that way, said Ronald Gertson, chairman of the Colorado Water Issues Committee, which represents rice farmers in the lower Colorado River basin.
From Colorado Water Issues Committee
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April 16, 2019
Yesterday, the Texas Senate passed Senate Bill 9, a bill strongly opposed by a long list of voting and civil rights organizations.
Among the things SB 9 would do include:
Threatens voters with jail time and enormous fines: ?Voters could be punished for innocent mistakes, such as filling out their voter registration form wrong.
From Common Cause Texas
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April 1, 2019
On the same day media is reporting that David Whitley "received a 49 percent pay raise thanks to his friend and political patron, Gov. Greg Abbott," the Senate State Affairs Committee is hearing legislation that would codify elements of the voter purge process Whitley developed.
From Common Cause Texas
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April 4, 2019
Today, the House Redistricting Committee is meeting to consider several pieces of legislation that would take the power to draw district lines away from legislators and hand it over to different types of independent commissions.
Today’s hearing takes place at a time when a number of states and local governmental entities are adopting commissions - including the City of Austin.
From Common Cause Texas
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April 15, 2019
Civics 4 Y’all, a group of civic organizations, students, and teachers convened a Civic Education Capitol Day Friday, April 12th to champion high quality civics education for Texas students and encourage support for HB 3008 and HB 3009.
From Common Cause Texas
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March 21, 2019
The American Legion, Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars and Conservative Texans for Charitable Bingojoined forces at the Texas Capitol today to rally in support of Charitable Bingo in Texas. Conservative Texans for Charitable Bingois a non-profit group of Texas charities and supporters and veterans who believe in helping fund local charity needs through the game of bingo as regulated by the state.
From Conservative Texans for Charitable Bingo
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March 21, 2019
Reacting to pervasive lead contamination in schools’ drinking water, Environment Texas and TexPIRG gave Texas an F grade today for addressing the problem, according to a new national report. The group announced support for legislation by Rep. James Talarico to ensure lead-free water in Texas schools and daycares.
From Environment Texas
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March 27, 2019
More than 1 million Texans enrolled in Affordable Care Act (ACA) health insurance for 2019 despite ongoing uncertainty, a federal court ruling invalidating the law, and massive funding cuts for navigators to help consumers sign up for a plan.
From Episcopal Health Foundation
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March 26, 2019
Equality Texas, the largest statewide organization solely dedicated to securing full equality for LGBTQ Texans, today pointed to overwhelming and diverse testimony as evidence that SB 17, the #1 threat to the LGBTQ community being pushed by the Lt. Governor, as evidence of bill’s widespread opposition.
From Equality Texas
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April 2, 2019
Equality Texas, the largest statewide organization solely dedicated to securing full equality for LGBTQ Texans condemned today’s Senate passage of Lt. Governor Dan Patrick and Senator Charles Perry’s SB 17, the #1 threat to the LGBTQ community.
From Equality Texas
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March 26, 2019
A sweeping coalition of neighborhood, business, civic, non-profit, and faith leaders announced today that they proudly support State Rep. Eric Johnson’s campaign to become the next Mayor of Dallas.
Nearly 250 Dallas leaders have formally endorsed State Rep. Eric Johnson to become Dallas’ next Mayor, demonstrating the broad support that his inclusive and consensus-building leadership style has garnered across the nation’s ninth largest city.
From Eric Johnson Campaign
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April 18, 2019
A Texas House committee gave approval Thursday to Rep. Eric Johnson’s bill to allow state funds to flow to residents at risk of losing their homes due to gentrification.
The House Committee on Urban Affairs, on which Rep. Johnson sits, approved House Bill 4394.
From Eric Johnson Campaign
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April 10, 2019
The Harris County Commissioners Court approved a State Award letter to allow the Harris County Flood Control District to begin work to construct a new public Flood Warning System Website. The new website will include enhanced functionality and viewing capabilities, updated and modernized graphics, and features that allow residents to sign up for specific information to be delivered via e-mail, text message, and automated calls.
From Harris County Flood Control District
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March 22, 2019
Influence Texas and Texans for Public Justice announce the release of Influence Texas OS Version 2, an open source web app providing campaign finance records of Texas state politicians, enabling taxpayers to track the influence of money in politics.
From Influence Texas, P.B.C.
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April 16, 2019
The League of Women Voters of Texas is disappointed that SB 9 passed the Senate today. The League of Women Voters of Texas members will lead efforts across the state to stop SB 9 and similar bills from being passed in the Texas House of Representatives. League action alerts have generated 2476 emails from grass roots constituents to their legislators on voting and election reform this session -- over 1000 in the last week against SB 9.
From League of Women Voters of Texas
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April 8, 2019
Houston Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher raised more than $515,000 in the first 90 days of 2019 and retains nearly $550,000 in her campaign account. More than 70% of Fletcher’s funds were raised from Houston-area residents.
“In 2018, we built a strong coalition, and I am grateful for the outpouring of support in our first fundraising quarter of the 2020 cycle,” said Fletcher.
From Lizzie Fletcher Campaign
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April 17, 2019
The Lower Colorado River Basin Coalition said it deplores a series of toxic spills on Skull Creek that have killed fish and endangered wildlife and humans, and it supports county and state efforts to stop the contamination and prosecute the offenders.
From Lower Colorado River Basin Coalition
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April 17, 2019
The Lower Colorado River Basin Coalition continues to support proposed legislation that would require the Lower Colorado River Authority to strengthen its public engagement policies, as recommended by the Texas Sunset Commission.
From Lower Colorado River Basin Coalition
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March 26, 2019
Members of the Mexican American Legislative Caucus (MALC) are calling on the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) to open an investigation into sexual abuse allegiations against migrant children under their jurisdiction. In a letter sent to DFPS today, MALC requested the agency to “intervene to investigate the massive allegations of abuse.”
From Mexican American Legislative Caucus
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April 9, 2019
On Thursday, Murphy Nasica and Associates (MNA) was awarded nine prestigious Pollie Awards sponsored by the American Association of Political Consultants (AAPC). The AAPC is the largest association of political and public affairs professionals in the world and the Pollie Award is the association's highest honor - recognizing the finest political work across all elections in 2018.
From Murphy Nasica and Associates
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March 28, 2019
Progressives are watching as extremist lawmakers continue to promote their dangerous anti-abortion agenda at the expense of Texans’ public health. Following the Texas House debate on the state’s budget, Progress Texas, NARAL Pro-Choice Texas, Planned Parenthood Texas Votes and Deeds Action Fund announced their anti-choice electoral targets.
From NARAL Pro-Choice Texas
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March 27, 2019
As the Texas House prepares to debate the state budget and spending for the next two years, NARAL Pro-Choice Texas calls on lawmakers to put the public health of Texas over politics and clarify HHSC’s responsibility to provide proper oversight and accountability to the programs and contracts it oversees.
From NARAL Pro-Choice Texas
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April 17, 2019
Today the Texas House gave preliminary approval to House Bill 16, the so-called “Born Alive Act”.
NARAL Pro-Choice Texas Executive Director Aimee Arrambide issued the following statement:
There’s a reason the federal version of this bill failed to pass and why national medical organizations oppose this bill, and that’s because HB 16 is not about medicine, its a bill based on lies and fear mongering.
From NARAL Pro-Choice Texas
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April 16, 2019
Acting on behalf of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Attorney General Ken Paxton’s office obtained a temporary restraining order against Inland Recycling LLC, Inland Environmental Remediation, Inc., and David Polston of Altair, Texas, after a Travis County District Court found evidence showing the defendants violated state laws protecting water quality.
From Office of the Attorney General
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March 22, 2019
Attorney General Ken Paxton today applauded Governor Greg Abbott’s appointment of current Texas Assistant Solicitor General Kristofer Monson to Chief Administrative Law Judge for the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH). The Chief Administrative Law Judge oversees SOAH, which is a forum for the conduct of adjudicative hearings in the executive branch of state government.
From Office of the Attorney General
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March 25, 2019
Acting on behalf of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Attorney General Ken Paxton today filed an environmental lawsuit against Intercontinental Terminals Company (ITC) seeking injunctive relief and civil penalties in connection with a fire at ITC’s Deer Park petrochemical storage site.
From Office of the Attorney General
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April 15, 2019
Attorney General Ken Paxton today applauded a Texas Supreme Court ruling that maintains the vital ability of the state to protect the identity of its execution drug supplier:
“Today’s court ruling ensures anonymity for suppliers of drugs the State of Texas uses for executions by lethal injection.
From Office of the Attorney General
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March 26, 2019
Attorney General Ken Paxton today filed a friend-of-the-court brief defending Texas’ anti-revenge pornography law. He asked the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals to overturn last year’s decision by the 12th Court of Appeals that blocked the law.
From Office of the Attorney General
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March 29, 2019
Attorney General Ken Paxton today applauded a U.S. District Court after it agreed with a Texas county and landowner whose lawsuit seeks to delist the Bone Cave Harvestman – a tiny cave-dwelling arachnid – from the endangered list under the federal Endangered Species Act.
From Office of the Attorney General
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March 28, 2019
Attorney General Ken Paxton today sent a letter to the mayor and council members for the City of San Antonio, informing them he is opening an investigation surrounding the city’s decision to exclude Chick-fil-A from a concession contract that City staff recommended.
From Office of the Attorney General
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April 1, 2019
Attorney General Ken Paxton today commended last Friday’s decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit that Texas prison officials do not violate transgender inmates’ constitutional rights against cruel and unusual punishment by refusing to provide them with gender reassignment surgery.
From Office of the Attorney General
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April 11, 2019
Attorney General Ken Paxton today sent a second letter to the mayor and council members for the City of San Antonio, making an open records request for documents related to the Office of the Attorney General’s investigation of the City’s decision to exclude Chick-fil-A from the San Antonio International Airport.
From Office of the Attorney General
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April 9, 2019
Attorney General Ken Paxton today joined a multistate coalition brief defending a new Trump Administration rule for the Title X grant program which allows family planning services to cease providing abortion counseling and referral.
From Office of the Attorney General
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April 11, 2019
Attorney General Ken Paxton’s office today responded to a letter from the U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Reform, which requested documents relating to Texas’s efforts to safeguard its voting process. Specifically, the Committee appears to be inserting itself into the statutorily-required efforts on the part of state officials to detect and prosecute non-citizen voting.
From Office of the Attorney General
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April 4, 2019
Appearing today before the Senate State Affairs Committee, Attorney General Ken Paxton testified in support of Senate Bill 1257, which would give the attorney general’s office concurrent jurisdiction on human trafficking cases to further the state’s effort to combat modern-day slavery.
From Office of the Attorney General
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April 10, 2019
“Texans are fed up with skyrocketing property taxes. At the beginning of the legislative session, the Governor, Lt. Governor and Speaker laid out an agenda for property tax relief through the passage of Senate Bill 2 and House Bill 2 to limit property tax growth. In addition to that effort, today we are introducing a sales tax proposal to buy down property tax rates for all Texas homeowners and businesses, once Senate Bill 2 or House Bill 2 is agreed to and passed by both Chambers.
From Office of the Governor
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April 10, 2019
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following the unanimous passage of Senate Bill 26 – Honoring Our State Parks Commitment, by Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, R-Brenham:
“I commend Sen. Kolkhorst for the passage of Senate Bill 26 which ensures that the state honors our commitment to provide 100 percent of sales tax revenue from the sale of sporting goods to our state parks and historical sites.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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April 9, 2019
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following the passage of Senate Bill 23 – the Born-Alive Infant Protection Act, by Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, R-Brenham:
“I commend Sen. Kolkhorst on the passage of Senate Bill 23, the Born-Alive Infant Protection Act, which defends the lives of babies who survive an abortion.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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April 9, 2019
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following the passage of Senate Bill 1- the Senate Budget, authored by Sen. Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound:
"The Texas economy is the tenth largest in the world -- larger than Russia. Responsibly managing the budget for this state is a monumental task and Sen. Nelson and the Senate Finance Committee deserve the thanks of every Texan.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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April 9, 2019
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following the passage of CSSB 27 – Stop Government Overreach, by Sen. Bryan Hughes, R-Mineola:
“Citizens should have a mechanism to fight back against any and all government overreach. CSSB 27 will ensure that when a Texan is a victim of what is determined to be a frivolous regulatory action by a state agency, he or she can recover their legal fees.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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April 9, 2019
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following the passage of Senate Bill 21 – Raise Smoking Age to 21, by Sen. Joan Huffman, R-Houston:
"I want to thank Sen. Huffman for passing this important legislation for the children of Texas.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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April 3, 2019
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following the passage of Senate Bill 17 – Protecting Religious Liberties, by Sen. Charles Perry, R-Lubbock:
“Senate Bill 17 will ensure that no Texan will ever have to choose between their job and their faith.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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April 2, 2019
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following the passage of Senate Bill 22 – Defund Abortion Providers, by Sen. Donna Campbell, R-New Braunfels:
“There is nothing more important than defending the defenseless. Senate Bill 22, authored by Sen. Campbell, will continue Texas' commitment to defend the most vulnerable in our society and preserve the sanctity of life.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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April 11, 2019
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following the unanimous passage of Senate Bill 30 – Taxpayers Right to Know - Bond Transparency, by Sen. Brian Birdwell, R-Granbury:
“I commend Sen. Brian Birdwell for passing this important legislation.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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April 4, 2019
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following the passage of Senate Bill 14 – Expanding Rural Broadband, by Sen. Robert Nichols, R-Jacksonville:
“I commend Sen. Nichols and the Texas Senate on the passage of Senate Bill 14, which will help expand broadband infrastructure deeper into rural Texas.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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April 3, 2019
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued the following statement after the Texas Senate adopted Senate Resolution 535 - Declaring the Border Crisis an Emergency:
“The Texas Senate adopted Senate Resolution 535 today to make it crystal clear to Congress that the crisis at the border is very real. This past weekend, border officials announced what was obvious to millions of Texans — the situation at the border is at the breaking point.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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March 27, 2019
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following the unanimous passage of CSSB 20 – the Stop Human Trafficking bill, by Sen. Joan Huffman, R-Houston:
“I congratulate Sen. Joan Huffman and the entire Texas Senate on the unanimous passage of CSSB 20 and for her vigilant commitment to ending human trafficking in Texas.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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April 17, 2019
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following the passage of Senate Bill 29 – Stop Taxpayer Funded Lobbying, by Sen. Bob Hall, R-Edgewood:
"I congratulate Sen. Hall and the Texas Senate for passing this legislation and for taking a principled stand against this local misuse of taxpayer funds.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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March 25, 2019
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following unanimous passage of Senate Bill 12 – the Retired Teachers’ Security Act, by Sen. Joan Huffman, R-Houston:
“I have repeatedly told our retired teachers that my goal is to keep the Teacher Retirement System (TRS) solvent forever.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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March 21, 2019
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following unanimous passage of Senate Bill 6, by Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, R-Brenham, Senate Bill 7, by Sen. Brandon Creighton, R-Conroe and Senate Bill 8, by Sen. Charles Perry, R-Lubbock -- the Hurricane Harvey disaster response bills:
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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April 16, 2019
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following the passage of Senate Bill 16 – Police College Loan Forgiveness, by Sen. Kelly Hancock, R-North Richland Hills:
"I congratulate Sen. Hancock and the Texas Senate for unanimously passing Senate Bill 16, which will aid the recruitment of police officers by offering to help repay student loans for officers who choose to serve in local law enforcement post-graduation.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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April 16, 2019
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following the passage of Senate Bill 2 – the Property Tax Reform bill, by Sen. Paul Bettencourt, R-Houston:
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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April 17, 2019
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following his appointment of conferees for the 2020-2021 budget conference. His appointees are Senate Finance Chairman Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, Senator Larry Taylor, R-Friendswood, Senator Joan Huffman, R- Houston, Senator Lois Kolkhorst, R-Brenham and Senator Robert Nichols, R-Jacksonville.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor:
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April 17, 2019
Today, the Texas House gave preliminary approval to Rep. Jeff Leach’s (R-Plano) HB 16.
Statement from Dyana Limon-Mercado, Interim Executive Director, Planned Parenthood Texas Votes:
“HB 16 is a blatantly false, inflammatory and dangerous bill being pushed by anti-choice organizations to further stigmatize abortion, intimidate physicians and, once again, interfere with a woman’s right to seek medical care.
From Planned Parenthood Texas Votes
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April 2, 2019
Legislators promised a session focused on ‘bread and butter’ issues but attacks on reproductive health care remain a priority for extremists at the Capitol. One of the biggest threats is SB 22/HB 1929, dangerous bills that would prohibit local governmental entities from partnering with trusted health care providers, including Planned Parenthood.
From Planned Parenthood Texas Votes
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April 9, 2019
Powering Texas, an alliance of local business and economic development leaders across the state, commends the Texas House of Representatives for reauthorizing two vital economic tools today:
? HB 360: Property Redevelopment and Tax Abatement Act, also known as Chapter 312
? HB 2129: Texas Economic Development Act, also known as Chapter 313
From Powering Texas
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April 8, 2019
Yesterday the Houston Chronicle covered the developing Democratic primary campaign in Texas’ 10th Congressional District and highlighted Dr. Pritesh Gandhi's strong first-quarter fundraising.
“As people get to know my story, they're going to see that (I have) a lifetime of experience, that this isn't something that, a seat opened up and I decided that now would be the time to run for it,” Gandhi said.
From Pritesh Gandhi Campaign
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April 15, 2019
State Representative Armando Walle (D-Houston) has been appointed by House Speaker Dennis Bonnen (R-Brazoria) to serve on the Conference Committee for House Bill 1 (HB 1), the General Appropriations Act.
From Representative Armando Walle
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April 15, 2019
Today, the Texas House of Representatives passed a monumental series of bills that collectively work together to improve flood mitigation and disaster response, recovery and preparedness. State Representative Armando Walle (D-Houston) authored three of the bills passed today from recommendations made by the Governor's Commission to Rebuild Texas and addresses the critical issues coastal Texans have faced in the months since Hurricane Harvey made landfall.
From Representative Armando Walle
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March 21, 2019
State Representative Brooks Landgraf's (R-Odessa) legislation aimed at reducing the number of overpass strikes due to over-height semi-trucks by holding those drivers or their employers liable for the costly damage has been voted out of the House Transportation Committee and now moves to the full House for a vote.
From Representative Brooks Landgraf
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April 17, 2019
State Representative Brooks Landgraf's (R-Odessa) legislation aimed at making it a felony to assault a pregnant woman in Texas was unanimously passed on Wednesday in the Texas House of Representatives.
Previously, the House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee unanimously passed House Bill 902, which makes it a third degree felony for assaulting a pregnant woman if the actor knew the woman was pregnant at the time of the assault.
From Representative Brooks Landgraf
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April 5, 2019
On Thursday, the Texas House Higher Education Committee passed House Bill 2000 - legislation co-authored by State Representative Brooks Landgraf (R-Odessa) - which will assist the University of Texas of the Permian Basin (UTPB) in financing the improvement of the Mesa Building.
From Representative Brooks Landgraf
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April 3, 2019
State Representative Brooks Landgraf (R-Odessa) and State Representative Tom Craddick (R-Midland) on Wednesday presented to a Texas House Appropriations subcommittee their proposal to bring state money generated by oil and gas production back to energy-producing hotbeds across the state.
From Representative Brooks Landgraf
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April 4, 2019
On Wednesday, the Texas House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed House Bill 3 - legislation co-authored by State Representative Brooks Landgraf (R-Odessa) - that invests $9 billion in Texas classrooms to boost student achievement, support teacher quality, reduce recapture and provide property tax relief.
From Representative Brooks Landgraf
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March 28, 2019
State Representative Brooks Landgraf (R-Odessa) and State Representative Tom Craddick (R-Midland) successfully amended the budget bill proposed in the Texas House of Representatives to add funding to bolster salaries for hard-to-fill positions at Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) driver license offices in the Permian Basin.
From Representative Brooks Landgraf
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April 11, 2019
State Representative Brooks Landgraf's (R-Odessa) legislation aimed at reducing the number of overpass strikes due to over-height semi-trucks by holding those drivers or their employers liable for the costly damage was passed on Thursday in the Texas House of Representatives.
From Representative Brooks Landgraf
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April 8, 2019
“Let’s represent the fabric of Texas,” Representative Carl Sherman (D-Dallas) recently said when he invited six other members to assist him in creating what he has coined, “Diversity Under the Dome.” Sherman is joined by Rep. Rhetta Bowers, Rep. John Bucy, III, Rep. Julie Johnson, Rep. Ana-Maria Ramos, Rep. John Rosenthal, and Rep. James Talarico on the committee.
From Representative Carl Sherman
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March 28, 2019
The Texas House of Representatives passed two key appropriations bills, the Supplemental Appropriations Bill (Senate Bill 500) and the State Budget (House Bill 1). Representative César J. Blanco voted to approve both measures which provide key investments in El Paso and Texas. H.B. 1 will now go to the Senate for consideration and S.B. 500 will return to the Senate for concurrence consideration.
From Representative Cesar Blanco
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April 3, 2019
Today, the Texas House of Representatives passed House Bill 3, a landmark school finance bill. Representative César J. Blanco, a co-author of H.B.3 issued the following statement:
"House Bill 3 fundamentally transforms the way Texas invests in its students and teachers. This bill directs $9 billion in new funding – beyond enrollment growth and current law requirements – and prioritizes students with the highest needs, including funding full-day pre-k.
From Representative Cesar Blanco
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April 2, 2019
Today, the Texas House of Representatives passed House Resolution 1058 by Representative Cesar J. Blanco. With exactly one year from the start of the 2020 Census, H.R. 1058 declares April 1st as Census Awareness Day in Texas.
From Representative Cesar J. Blanco
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April 3, 2019
Today, state Representative Chris Turner (HD 101-Grand Prairie) added an amendment to House Bill (HB) 3, the measure to reform the state's school finance system. The amendment, which received unanimous, bipartisan support, will guarantee $2.4 billion for pay raises for every full-time teacher and full-time support staff member in the state.
From Representative Chris Turner
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April 18, 2019
Yesterday, the Texas House of Representatives passed HB 449, state Representative Chris Turner's (HD-101) measure that would require all Texas colleges and universities to notate a student's transcript if he/she is ineligible for re-enrollment as a result of a serious code of conduct violation. The bill, aimed at providing an additional tool for campus safety, passed with overwhelming bi-partisan support.
From Representative Chris Turner
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April 5, 2019
Today the Texas House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed House Bill 3 -- legislation co-authored by Rep. Christina Morales -- that invests $9 billion in Texas classrooms to boost student achievement, support teacher quality, reduce recapture and provide property tax relief. Following a full day of productive discussion on the House Floor, Rep. Morales voted in support of House Bill 3, which passed the House with 149 votes.
From Representative Christina Morales
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April 11, 2019
With support from State Representative Christina Morales, the Texas House of Representatives today passed a monumental series of bills to rebuild communities, strengthen infrastructure, mitigate flooding and ensure the State of Texas is better prepared to respond to future natural disasters.
From Representative Christina Morales
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April 4, 2019
As Vice Chair of the House Committee on Public Education and as a member of the School Finance Commission, I have heard hours and hours of testimony from students, parents, teachers, and administrators advocating for our schools. In my own District, I have made it a point to visit every single school to hear from the people doing the hard work every day.
From Representative Diego Bernal
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April 10, 2019
With support from State Representative Dustin R. Burrows (HD83) the Texas House of Representatives today passed a series of bills to rebuild communities, strengthen infrastructure, mitigate flooding and ensure the State of Texas is better prepared to respond to future natural disasters.
From Representative Dustin Burrows
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March 28, 2019
Today, the U.S. House Committee on Oversight & Reform sent acting-Secretary of State David Whitley a letter announcing its investigation into his attempted voter purge and requesting documents related to Election Advisory No. 2019-02.
From Representative Eddie Rodriguez
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April 10, 2019
The Texas House gave final passage Wednesday to House Bill 65, legislation authored by Rep. Eric Johnson to require school districts to report demographic data about out-of-school suspensions to the state.
House Bill 65 would require school districts to report the race, sex and dates of birth of suspended students, as well as information on why the students were suspended and the length of the suspensions.
From Representative Eric Johnson
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April 4, 2019
The Texas House of Representatives today passed House Bill 3, which increases public education funding and grants property tax relief, with strong support from Rep. Erin Zwiener of House District 45. The bill invests an additional $9 billion in public education, an issue Rep. Zwiener spoke with hundreds of constituents about during her 2018 campaign.
From Representative Erin Zwiener
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April 9, 2019
Constructing a pipeline, like building a road, requires an area of land to be disturbed. But sometimes the pipeline company doesn’t restore that land properly. State Representative Zwiener (D-Driftwood) laid out House Bill 4423 today in front of the House Committee on Energy Resources this afternoon, which seeks to ensure proper surface remediation and land restoration for landowners whose land was taken for the construction of a pipeline.
From Representative Erin Zwiener
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April 9, 2019
Today at the Texas State Capitol, State Rep. Erin Zwiener (D-Driftwood) laid out House Bill 4060 to ensure prompt and proper response to emergencies involving large gas pipelines. By promoting and providing a source for funding pipeline emergency preparedness, HB 4060 will help protect the safety of residents in the case of a pipeline spill, leak, or explosion.
From Representative Erin Zwiener
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April 10, 2019
Representative Erin Zwiener (D-Driftwood) laid out House Bill 4158 today in front of the Texas House Ways and Means Committee to protect the dark skies communities in the Texas Hill Country. HB 4158 would allow small cities in Hays and Blanco Counties to use revenue from the municipal hotel occupancy tax to preserve the night sky.
From Representative Erin Zwiener
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April 15, 2019
The Texas House of Representatives voted yesterday on a proposal to put a constitutional amendment related to flood mitigation funds before Texas voters this November. House Joint Resolution 4, which would create the Flood Infrastructure Fund to provide dollars for flood mitigation and other drainage flood control projects, passed overwhelmingly out of the house with the support of Rep. Erin Zwiener (D-Driftwood).
From Representative Erin Zwiener
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April 10, 2019
Yesterday, the House Energy Resources Committee heard testimony on House Bill 509, which would provide additional oversight for the aggregate industry, which includes gravel puts, stone crushers, and concrete batch plants. Authored by Representative Terry Wilson (R-Marble Falls) and joint-authored by Representative Erin Zwiener (D-Driftwood), HB 509 would create an umbrella permit for aggregate production operators (APOs) under the Texas Railroad Commission.
From Representative Erin Zwiener
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April 11, 2019
Representative Erin Zwiener (D-Driftwood) today expressed serious concern with House Bill 2, which would establish artificially low revenue caps for cities and counties and prevent them from providing essential services to their communities. As written, the bill would place a 2.5% cap on revenue (a number that is often lower than inflation) and require cities and counties to hold an extra election whenever they go above that number. Current state law is 8%.
From Representative Erin Zwiener
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April 5, 2019
The 2019 Texas Legislature got a visit from Grammy-nominated Texas band Wood & Wire this morning. The band, whose latest album North of Despair was recorded in Dripping Springs, was nominated this past year for a Grammy Award for Best Bluegrass Album. Two of the band members are originally from House District 45.
From Representative Erin Zwiener
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March 29, 2019
Representative Erin Zwiener came prepared for budget day at the Capitol with her constituents’ concerns in mind. She laid out one amendment, HB 1, the state budget, in what historically has proven to be the longest day on the House Floor each session.
The Representative’s floor amendment addressed the need for structural repairs to high-hazard dams in Texas.
From Representative Erin Zwiener
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March 21, 2019
State Representative Erin Zwiener introduced a bill that would allow public-private partnerships to help provide broadband access to rural Texans. Lack of broadband holds rural communities back from achieving their full educational and economic potential. HB 3529 seeks to rectify this problem by giving rural communities a new tool to develop internet infrastructure.
From Representative Erin Zwiener
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April 15, 2019
State Representative Erin Zwiener (D-Driftwood) today notched another victory in her work aimed at eliminating sexual misconduct as House Bill 2279 was voted unanimously out of the House International Relations & Economic Development Committee. HB 2279 would require the Texas Workforce Commission to accept sexual harassment claims from employees of companies of all sizes.
From Representative Erin Zwiener
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April 17, 2019
Today, the Texas House of Representatives passed major legislation that, if finally enacted, will in a meaningful way address the needs of students with mental health conditions and provide resources for educators, including mental health awareness training.
From Representative Four Price
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March 28, 2019
In the early hours of Thursday morning, the Texas House of Representatives passed House Bill 1, the General Appropriations Act, by a unanimous vote of 149 to 0. The bill allocates $251 billion for the next biennium; providing a $9 billion increase for public education to improve student outcomes and retain quality teachers, over $300 million to the Texas Department of Juvenile Justice, and close to $800 million to support Child Protective Services and improve foster care.
From Representative Gene Wu
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April 11, 2019
Rep. Gene Wu (D-Houston) today sent the attached letter to Houston Independent School District (HISD) Superintendent Granita Lathan, Board Members, and senior administration officials to ask for answers that address the concerns of the Mandarin Immersion Magnet School (MIMS) community regarding the forced resignation of Principal Chaolin Chang.
From Representative Gene Wu
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April 10, 2019
State Representative Hugh D. Shine's two Highway renaming bills, one honoring the memory of Senior Trooper Tom Nipper and the other honoring First Cavalry veterans, were heard in the House Committee on Transportation on Wednesday, April 10.
From Representative Hugh Shine
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April 4, 2019
Yesterday, the Texas House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed House Bill 3 -- legislation co-authored by Representative Shine -- that invests $9 billion in Texas classrooms to boost student achievement, support teacher quality, reduce recapture and provide property tax relief. Following a full day of productive discussion on the House Floor, Rep. Hugh Shine voted in support of House Bill 3, which passed the House with 149 votes.
From Representative Hugh Shine
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April 3, 2019
State Representative Hugh Shine's House Bill 452 relating to the creation of truancy masters passed favorably out of the Committee on Juvenile Justice and Family Issues on Monday, April 1.
Senator Buckingham is carrying the bill in the Senate and Representative Buckley of Salado has joint authored the bill with Representative Shine.
From Representative Hugh Shine
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March 21, 2019
The Texas House of Representatives Appropriations committee has referred House Bill 1 (HB1) to the full house and debate is tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, March 27.
From Representative Hugh Shine
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April 17, 2019
State Representative Shine today joined Texas House colleagues in unanimously passing House Bill 8, the "Lavinia Masters Act", to eliminate the rape kit backlog in Texas.
From Representative Hugh Shine
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April 18, 2019
House Bills 452 and 2105 by State Representative Hugh D. Shine passed with unanimous consent through the House of Representatives today as part of the Local and Consent Calendar.
House Bill 452 relates to the creation of Truancy Masters for Bell County.
From Representative Hugh Shine
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April 18, 2019
After over eighteen months of tireless work, on Wednesday, April 17, Representative Hugh D. Shine passed House Bill 492 and House Joint Resolution 34 out of the Texas House of Representatives and these pieces of legislation are now on their way to the Texas Senate.
From Representative Hugh Shine
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April 17, 2019
Today, in a bi-partisan showing of support, the Texas House of Representatives passed House Bill 16, known as the "Texas Born-Alive Infant Protection Act." Authored by Representative Jeff Leach, this landmark legislation provides the strongest legal protections in the nation for infants who survive an abortion.
From Representative Jeff Leach
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March 29, 2019
This week, State Representative Jeff Leach authored and passed an amendment to the Appropriations Bill, House Bill 1, providing an additional $18 million of existing state revenue to women’s healthcare services, including $15 million dedicated to support essential postpartum care services for eligible women in Texas Medicaid and $3 million to the Healthy Texas Women program.
From Representative Jeff Leach
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April 4, 2019
With a vote of 149-1, the Texas House overwhelmingly voted to pass House Bill 3, legislation Co-Authored by Representative Jeff Leach that provides a sweeping, historic school finance package that systemically reforms our state's antiquated finance structure and makes a generational investment in Texas students and educators.
From Representative Jeff Leach
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March 27, 2019
Today, Congressman Jodey Arrington (TX-19) released the following statement after Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson announced the Air Force had selected Dyess Air Force Base as the only base in the country to house both the operational test squadron and the weapons training school for the next generation bomber, the B-21 Raider.
From Representative Jodey Arrington
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April 4, 2019
Today, the Texas House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed H. B. 3 by Dan Huberty, chair of the House Committee on Public Education, investing $9 billion into Texas schools, including providing for full-day Pre-K, increases in funding for special education, and pay raises for all full-time district employees.
From Representative John Bucy III
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March 28, 2019
Today the Texas House of Representatives voted against expanding Medicaid in Texas. An amendment by State Representative John H. Bucy III to H.B. 1, the House version of the budget, would have directed the House and Human Services Commission to seek a waiver to expand Medicaid in Texas.
In response to the House's vote against his Medicaid expansion amendment, Rep. Bucy issued the below statement:
From Representative John Bucy III
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April 3, 2019
Today the Texas House of Representatives unanimously passed H. B. 1241 by Representative John H. Bucy III, which requires that any polling place notice include the physical street address, including the building name and suite or room number, if any. This is Rep. Bucy's first bill to be passed out of the Texas House.
From Representative John Bucy, III
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April 5, 2019
On November 14th 2018, I pre-filed House Bill 357 known as Constitutional Carry. I have worked hard to advance the bill, educate my fellow members, and bring awareness to the issue. Unfortunately, it is clear to me that the bill will not become law this session. We were unable to secure a public hearing in a timely manner or get a Senate companion filed.
From Representative Jonathan Stickland
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April 2, 2019
Today the University of Texas Board of Regents voted to appoint Secretary Heather Wilson as the next President of the University of Texas at El Paso. At this time, I express the following:
I am disappointed that the selection process did not produce a candidate who is more attuned to the unique needs of a border community.
From Representative Lina Ortega
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April 3, 2019
Every child with a disability deserves appropriate access to special education services that meet their unique needs. In Texas, that has not been the reality for our public school system. Today, Rep. González authored two amendments to House Bill 3, Chairman Huberty’s school finance bill, and both were successfully passed; these two amendments will greatly improve our state’s special education services.
From Representative Mary Gonzalez
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April 11, 2019
In the year 2019, there are hundreds of thousands of Texans who cannot flush their toilets, or access clean drinking water in their homes. Earlier this afternoon, Rep. Mary González’s House Joint Resolution 11, which authorizes $200 million in bonds for water and wastewater projects in economically distressed areas throughout the state, passed out of the Texas House of Representatives.
From Representative Mary Gonzalez
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April 1, 2019
“Education is a transformative opportunity, and the leaders of institutions of education have a truly symbolic and special role. A university's impact extends beyond the bounds of campus - they have the power to immensely shape the surrounding communities, and beyond.
From Representative Mary Gonzalez
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April 16, 2019
In a 2018 report, it was found by the Texas Maternal Mortality & Morbidity Task Force that nearly 80% of pregnancy related deaths were preventable. Regularly attending prenatal and postnatal doctor’s appointments may greatly reduce one's risk of maternal death. Unfortunately, many Texas parents lack the means of transportation to attend necessary to do so.
From Representative Mary Gonzalez
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March 28, 2019
Last night, Representative Matt Krause, with the help of Chairman Bonnen, Chairman Klick, Representative Stickland, Representative Oliverson, and Representative Patterson, amended the House Budget (CSHB1) to increase funding to the Alternatives to Abortion Program to $90,000,000.
From Representative Matt Krause
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April 3, 2019
Representative Michelle Beckley (D-Carrollton) laid out her first bill this afternoon in the House Committee on Business & Industry. HB 1036 mandates that all real property transactions must disclose sales prices. Currently, Texas does not require the submittal of a property's sales price to the county of sale. The lack of disclosure makes assessing property values difficult for appraisal districts and means that Texas is potentially under-taxing commercial properties by over $5 billion per year.
From Representative Michelle Beckley
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April 11, 2019
State Representative Michelle Beckley (D-Carrollton) has heard House Bill 4068 today which requires each public school student to be fully vaccinated against bacterial meningitis in accordance with the most recent recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
From Representative Michelle Beckley
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April 11, 2019
State Representative Michelle Beckley (D-Carrollton) expressed significant doubt with House Bill 2, set to be debated on the House floor today. House Bill 2 would impose a 2.5% cap on property tax revenue for cities and counties preventing them from providing essential services to their communities.
From Representative Michelle Beckley
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April 9, 2019
Representative Michelle Beckley (D-Carrollton) laid out her bill this evening in the House Committee on Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence. HB 978 addresses same-sex marriages, parenting relationships, and repeals the criminal offense of homosexual conduct, bringing Texas law into alignment with Federal statute.
From Representative Michelle Beckley
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April 9, 2019
State Representative Michelle Beckley (D-Carrollton) laid out her bill this evening in the House Committee on Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence. HJR 64 amends the Texas Constitution to remove the provision stating that marriage in this state is only between one man and one woman. HJR 64 would place the proposed amendment on the ballot for the election held on November 5, 2019.
From Representative Michelle Beckley
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March 29, 2019
State Representative Michelle Beckley released the following statement today regarding her amendment to the state budget Wednesday that will study vaccination coverage Texas child care centers and family homes:
“There have been 14 reported cases of measles, a severe preventable viral infection, in Texas this year alone," said Representative Beckley.
From Representative Michelle Beckley
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March 29, 2019
As the Texas House of Representatives debated its appropriations bill, HB1, into the early morning hour, State Representative Rafael Anchia, Chairman of the Mexican American Legislative Caucus, successfully passed an amendment to the 2020-2021 Texas budget to require the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to help policymakers and the public understand whether their allocated dollars are effectively being spent.
From Representative Rafael Anchia
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April 5, 2019
On Monday, April 8th, Chairman Rafael Anchia will lay out HB 864, HB 866 and HB 868, his slate of bills related to natural gas pipeline safety. These bills will be presented before the Texas House Committee on Energy Resources, of which Chairman Anchia is a member.
From Representative Rafael Anchia
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April 16, 2019
Representative Ray Lopez proudly joins Rep. Van Deaver (R-Bowie County) in authoring House Bill 1480 that recently passed the House floor. This specific piece of legislation calls for an amendment of the Education Code that would remove requirements for students to pass standardized tests for grade promotion.
From Representative Ray Lopez
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April 3, 2019
One of the first bills that Representative Lopez signed as a Co-author was House Bill 3. This legislation will fundamentally change the public school finance system in our State. Representative Lopez diligently joined over a hundred fellow House members that signed on as co-authors and publically supported this bill.
From Representative Ray Lopez
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March 26, 2019
State Representative Rhetta Andrews Bowers (HD 113) will host an event titled "Together We Dine" for House legislators on Tuesday, March 26 at the Headliners Club in Downtown Austin.
“I am very excited to host my first official event as a member of the Texas House of Representatives. My staff and I have been hard at work over the past few weeks to ensure that our "Together We Dine" event goes perfectly. We hope that it will be a great time for all who attend.”
From Representative Rhetta Andrews Bowers
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April 11, 2019
State Representative Rhetta Andrews Bowers (HD 113) has some key concerns regarding House Bill 2 , which would cap the property tax rate at 2.5% and require voter approval if a local government wanted to increase their property taxes above the 2.5% cap.
From Representative Rhetta Bowers
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April 17, 2019
With the support of Representative Rick Miller (Fort Bend) the Texas House of Representatives has passed a series of bills to help victims of human trafficking and sexual assault. On April 10, 2019, HCR 35 was voted out of Public Health committee unanimously.
From Representative Rick Miller
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April 2, 2019
Today, House Bill 990, which Representative Gutierrez filed in January, will be heard in the Environmental Regulation Committee at 10:30 a.m., or upon adjournment of the House. Representatives from all over the state will discuss the impacts a border will have at Texas' southern border.
From Representative Roland Gutierrez
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April 4, 2019
Two days ago Senate Republicans rolled out Resolution 535, without warning, to spread hate and fear to our constituents at the border. My Democratic colleagues in the Senate were taken by surprise, but still fought by offering up amendments to try and kill the Resolution. I am proud of the way they fought, and offered my own opposition during a Facebook Live video last night.
From Representative Roland Gutierrez
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April 11, 2019
With support from State Representative Reynolds, the Texas House of Representatives today passed a monumental series of bills to rebuild communities, strengthen infrastructure, mitigate flooding and ensure the State of Texas is better prepared to respond to future natural disasters.
From Representative Ron Reynolds
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March 28, 2019
Racial and ethnic minority populations and low-income communities bear a disproportionate share of the health risks caused by polluted air and contaminated water, and by solid waste landfills, hazardous waste facilities, waste water treatment plants, waste incinerators, and other similar projects.
From Representative Ron Reynolds
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April 4, 2019
Today, I am proud to be a co-author and stand with Public Education Chairman Dan Huberty and my House colleagues as we passed landmark school finance reform legislation, HB 3 (The Texas Plan). The bill includes comprehensive and long overdue improvements that are essential to reforming our school finance system so that every Texas child can get a quality education.
From Representative Ron Reynolds
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April 10, 2019
In 2013, the U.S. healthcare system spent more than $80 billion on specialty drugs alone, which cost on average 37 times higher than traditional drugs. Certain pharmaceutical manufacturers exploit insufficient competition in the market and impose unconscionable price increases, impeding access to these drugs and putting patients and public health at risk.
From Representative Ron Reynolds
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April 15, 2019
Currently, the STAAR system annually tests students in grades 3-8 and tests high school students via end-of-course exams. High school students must pass Algebra I, English I, English II, Biology and U.S. History end-of-course exams to graduate. Rep. Reynolds was honored to file HB 3618, which would reduce the number of end of course exams from 5 to 3, it would eliminate English II and United States History.
From Representative Ron Reynolds
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April 18, 2019
Paid sick time is essential to Texans' economic security. Nearly forty percent of private sector workers and nearly eighty percent of the lowest-income workers do not have any paid sick time. Some workers that have paid sick time are penalized for using it or cannot use this time to care for sick family members. Absences can result in job loss which can devastate a family.
From Representative Ron Reynolds
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April 16, 2019
In 2015, state lawmakers passed a good intentioned bill with unintended consequences, HB 1842. HB 1842 states that if a public school fails state standards for five or more years, then the Texas Education Commissioner must either close that school or replace the district's entire school board with outside managers.
From Representative Ron Reynolds
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April 17, 2019
State Representative Reynolds joined Texas House colleagues in unanimously passing House Bill 8, the "Lavinia Masters Act", to eliminate the rape kit backlog in Texas. House Bill 8 -- a priority item for the 86th Texas Legislature
From Representative Ron Reynolds
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March 27, 2019
This morning, the Texas House of Representatives passed the supplemental appropriations bill (SB 500) needed to fund services for the remainder of Fiscal year 2019, as well as, many funds directed toward areas damaged by Hurricane Harvey any other natural disasters.
From Representative Sergio Munoz Jr.
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March 29, 2019
Early Thursday morning, after 14 hours of debate on the floor of the House of Representatives, the Texas House of Representatives voted unanimously to adopt House Bill 1, the state budget for the 2020-2021 biennium.
From Representative Sergio Munoz Jr.
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April 4, 2019
Today marked the debate on House Bill 3, otherwise known as school finance reform. The bill fundamentally transforms the way Texas invests in its students and makes school funding formulas more efficient and equitable. House Bill 3 sets forth the following provisions:
From Representative Sergio Munoz Jr.
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March 28, 2019
Representative Steve Toth (R-The Woodlands) attended yesterday's House Public Education Committee hearing to lay out House Bill 3290, his legislation requiring Texas school districts and junior colleges to work with first responders to create emergency operations plans that better protect students, teachers and staff in the event of a threat.
From Representative Steve Toth
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April 16, 2019
State Rep. Victoria Neave unanimously passed House Bill 8, the "Lavinia Masters Act," in the Texas House of Representatives this afternoon. The Lavinia Masters Act will tackle the backlog of thousands of untested rape kits in Texas and bring justice to survivors of sexual assault.
From Representative Victoria Neave
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March 22, 2019
The Senate Hispanic Research Council (SHRC) board of directors has unanimously elected a new chairman and executive officers. Hugo A. Gutierrez, Senior Manager of State Government Relations for Marathon Oil, will serve as the new Chair of the Board of Directors and Helen Soto Knaggs will continue to serve as Vice Chair.
From Senate Hispanic Research Council
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April 18, 2019
Today, the Texas Senate unanimously passed SB 2299 by Senator Beverly Powell. Senate Bill 2299 by Powell would move Texas' military installations, such as NAS JRB in Fort Worth or Lackland AFB in San Antonio, to critical infrastructure status. This change restricts individuals from flying drones on or near our military bases.
From Senator Beverly Powell
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March 28, 2019
Today, the Texas Senate by unanimous vote passed SB 450 by Senator Beverly Powell. Senate Bill 450 by Powell extends the deadline for Economic Development Corporations (EDCs) to submit their annual reports from February 1st to April 1st. By extending the deadline, EDCs are granted more time to submit their report, and thus increases compliance with the statutory reporting requirements.
From Senator Beverly Powell
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April 10, 2019
Today, the Texas Senate unanimously passed Senate Bill 1017 by Senator Beverly Powell. SB1017 by Powell creates an advisory council on postsecondary education for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The advisory council will be tasked with raising awareness about postsecondary opportunities for students with IDD and make recommendations on how to remove existing barriers to higher education for these students.
From Senator Beverly Powell
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April 9, 2019
Yesterday, the Senate Veteran Affairs & Border Security Committee unanimously passed SB 2299 by Senator Beverly Powell. Senate Bill 2299 by Powell would move Texas' military installations, such as NAS JRB in Fort Worth or Lackland AFB in San Antonio, to critical infrastructure status. This change restricts individuals from flying drones on or near our military bases.
From Senator Beverly Powell
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April 3, 2019
"This session began with calls for unity and the end of divisive legislation. Well, today was just politics as usual as the Texas Senate advanced two dangerous bills, SB 17 and SB 22.
SB 17 would allow state licensed professionals to deny services based on their "sincere religiously held belief."
From Senator Borris Miles
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April 10, 2019
Today, the Texas Senate unanimously passed, Senate Bill 1, the state budget. The budget funds the 2020-2021 biennium.
“The Texas economy is strong, partly because we are committed to conservative, balanced budgets, and I am proud of the fiscally responsible budget the Senate passed today.
From Senator Brandon Creighton
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April 16, 2019
Today, the Texas Senate passed Senate Bill 2, delivering meaningful reform to taxpayers. As a Member of the Senate Committee on Property Taxes, Senator Creighton heard hours of testimony from local elected officials, tax experts, economists and Texas businesses and homeowners regarding this bill.
From Senator Brandon Creighton
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April 16, 2019
Senate Bill 9 related to election integrity passed the Texas Senate today. Senator Hughes chaired the Senate Select Committee On Election Security during the interim of the 85th Legislature, and Senate Bill 9 is the product of the committee's work.
From Senator Bryan Hughes
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April 16, 2019
"Texans are desperate for property tax relief. Today I voted with 17 of my colleagues to slow the growth of property taxes. Respecting local control means respecting the will of the voters, and SB 2 puts property tax increases in front of local voters so they can finally hold their elected officials accountable.
From Senator Donna Campbell
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March 22, 2019
State Senator Donna Campbell released the following statement opposing San Antonio's City Council decision to ban Chick-fil-a from their airport:
"San Antonio's decision to ban Chick-Fil-A from the airport is out of step with American values and follows a dangerous trend of local governments using power to punish those who hold religious or political beliefs different from theirs.
From Senator Donna Campbell
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April 17, 2019
"Senate Bill 1264 is a step in the wrong direction. This bill moves our state closer to single-payer medicine and further away from doctors and hospitals being able to operate in a free market. The state cannot simply wave a magic wand and make the real costs of providing health care disappear.
From Senator Donna Campbell
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April 18, 2019
State Senator Donna Campbell joined U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, U.S. Senator John Cornyn, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, and other members of the Senate Republican Caucus at a press conference this afternoon to support Senate Resolution 535. Passed by the Texas Senate two weeks ago, SR 535 requests Congress to adequately address and fund border security.
From Senator Donna Campbell
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April 18, 2019
State Senator Donna Campbell joined pastors and religious leaders at San Antonio City Hall to call for the city council to reconsider their vote on banning Chick-Fil-A from the airport. The city council motion for a revote failed.
From Senator Donna Campbell
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April 15, 2019
"The Texas economy is strong because we value small businesses. No Texas business owner should be forced to close their doors or reduce their workforce because of costly and burdensome government regulations. In passing SB 2485 and 2487, the Texas Senate affirmed that small business owners know how to value their employees and run their business best, not bureaucrats at city hall.
From Senator Donna Campbell
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April 9, 2019
Senator Donna Campbell joined 19 other state senators in voting to pass SB 23, the Texas Born Alive Infant Protection Act. Please find her statement below:
"As a physician we take an oath to protect and preserve life," said Senator Campbell.
From Senator Donna Campbell
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April 2, 2019
State Senator Donna Campbell passed Senate Bill 22 on second reading today. SB 22 prohibits any taxpayer dollars at the state and local level from going to fund Planned Parenthood and other abortion providers.
"Texas taxpayers shouldn't be forced to subsidize the abortion industry with their tax dollars," said Senator Campbell.
From Senator Donna Campbell
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April 2, 2019
State Senator Donna Campbell voted against SB 1264 in the Senate Business and Commerce Committee Tuesday morning, expressing her concerns that the bill places the multi-billion dollar health insurance industry over the needs of patients and doctors.
From Senator Donna Campbell
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April 3, 2019
State Senator Donna Campbell, Chair of the Veteran Affairs and Border Security Committee, voted in support of SR 535 today declaring the crisis at the Texas-Mexico Border an emergency and calling upon Congress to pass a budget that funds resources to secure the border.
From Senator Donna Campbell
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March 28, 2019
The Senate Finance Committee today approved final workgroup recommendations for SB 1, the appropriations bill, filed by Texas State Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound.
"This is a fiscally responsible budget that prioritizes the two most critical issues of this session -- property tax relief and education, specifically our teachers who will receive a well-deserved pay raise through this budget," Senator Nelson said.
From Senator Jane Nelson
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April 9, 2019
The Texas Senate today approved the Committee Substitute to House Bill 1, the Senate's version of the appropriations bill, sponsored by Texas State Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, establishing the state's budget priorities for the next two years.
From Senator Jane Nelson
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April 3, 2019
The Senate Finance Committee today unanimously approved the Committee Substitute to House Bill 1, the appropriations bill, sponsored by Texas State Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound.
"After many months of hearings and testimony, I am proud of the budget the Senate Finance Committee has crafted," said Senator Nelson.
From Senator Jane Nelson
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March 21, 2019
The Texas Senate today approved SB 65, authored by Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, responding to the continued failure of state agencies to follow laws and procedures on state contracting.
"Senate Bill 65 addresses serious breakdowns in procurement and contract oversight across state government," Senator Nelson said.
From Senator Jane Nelson
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April 17, 2019
The Texas Senate today named Texas State Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, its chair of the Conference Committee on HB 1, the appropriations bill. She will serve alongside Senators Huffman, Kolkhorst, Taylor and Nichols.
"I look forward to working with this strong group of Senators as we iron out differences between the House and Senate budgets.
From Senator Jane Nelson
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March 27, 2019
The Texas Senate today approved SB 72, creating the Statewide Human Trafficking Coordinating Council whose members include all state agencies that receive an appropriation to address human trafficking.
From Senator Jane Nelson
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March 22, 2019
U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) issued the following statement in advance of tomorrow’s one year anniversary of President Trump signing the Fix NICS Act, led in the House by U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28) and former U.S. Rep. John Culberson (R-TX), into law:
From Senator John Cornyn
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April 4, 2019
U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) today released the following statements after the Senate Judiciary Committee approved the nominations of Wes Hendrix for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas in Lubbock, Mark Pittman for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas in Fort Worth, and Sean Jordan for the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas in Plano:
From Senator John Cornyn
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April 3, 2019
The following statement was released by State Sen. José Rodríguez:
Today, Texas Senate Republicans ambushed Senate Democrats to take up Senate Resolution 535. The resolution vilifies border communities and immigrants by repeating false narratives that conflate crimes against persons and property with immigration, and mischaracterizing refugees seeking asylum as a threat to our national security.
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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April 2, 2019
The following statement was released by State Sen. José Rodríguez:
On Monday, the journal Inside Higher Ed reported that more than 50 percent of UTEP faculty responding to a Faculty Senate survey opposed the appointment of Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson as UTEP President.
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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April 15, 2019
State Sen. José Rodríguez issued the following statement regarding his vote on SB 2, which received preliminary approval today from the Texas Senate:
I appreciate the effort to address rising property taxes, but S.B. 2 falls far short of the mark.
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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March 29, 2019
The following statement was released by State Sen. José Rodríguez:
The University of Texas System Board of Regents will vote Tuesday to formally appoint Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson as President of the University of Texas at El Paso. I oppose this action.
The selection of this sole finalist was the result of a flawed, closed search process that shut out any substantive input from the community.
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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April 17, 2019
The first Environmental Excellence Recognition Program (EERP) awards, a new legacy program initiated by state Sen. José Rodríguez's Senate District 29 Environment Advisory Committee (EAC), will be presented at a ceremony in conjunction with the City of El Paso Environmental Services Department's Earth Day ?event taking place April 20, 2019, in Downtown El Paso.
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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March 29, 2019
On March 29, 1973, the last remaining members of the United States armed forces withdrew from Vietnam and returned home. To commemorate this day, in 2009, I passed legislation to designate March 29 as Texas Vietnam Veterans Day.
From Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa
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April 18, 2019
Today, the Texas Senate passed Senate Bill 129 authored by Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa. This bill would give property tax relief in the form of an exemption to the surviving spouse of an officer or a special agent who was killed while in the line of duty while serving the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
From Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa
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April 18, 2019
Today, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick announced Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa as one of only five Senate appointees to the Conference Committee on Senate Bill 500, the state's supplemental appropriations bill for the 2018-19 biennium.
From Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa
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March 21, 2019
Today, the Texas Senate passed three disaster relief bills joint authored by State Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa to address lessons learned from Hurricane Harvey by preparing our state for future hurricanes and natural disasters, including ways to address flood response and clean-up (SB 6), flood project funding (SB 7), and state and regional flood planning (SB 8).
From Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa
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April 10, 2019
Today, the Texas Senate passed Senate Bill 21 joint-authored by Senator Joan Huffman and Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa to raise the minimum legal age to purchase tobacco products from 18 to 21. According to national data, 95 percent of adult smokers begin smoking before they turn 21 and this bill would prohibit nonmilitary individuals under that age from being able to purchase cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and other tobacco products. This bill is now headed to the Texas House of Representatives for consideration.
From Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa
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April 15, 2019
Today, Senator Seliger voted to suspend the Senate's rules to allow debate to take place on Senate Bill 2, but remains steadfast in his opposition to the legislation. This decision prevented the blocker bill, which ensures cooperative work in the Senate, from being removed from the order of business in the so-called "nuclear option."
From Senator Kel Seliger
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April 15, 2019
Sen. Kelly Hancock (R-North Richland Hills) today issued the following statement regarding the Texas Senate's passage to engrossment of SB 2:
"The citizens of Texas have demanded property tax reform loud and clear. I'm glad to see that the majority of the Senate is listening.
From Senator Kelly Hancock
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April 16, 2019
Sen. Kelly Hancock (R-North Richland Hills) today passed SB 16 through the Texas Senate by a unanimous 31-0 vote. The bill would create a student loan repayment program for Texas peace officers who have served at least four years and commit to a career in law enforcement.
From Senator Kelly Hancock
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April 16, 2019
The Texas Senate today passed SB 1264 by Sen. Kelly Hancock (R-North Richland Hills), bipartisan legislation that prevents surprise medical billing of consumers in Texas who have state-regulated plans. SB 1264 allows medical providers to enter arbitration for payment negotiations with health insurance companies and prohibits them from sending surprise balance bills to consumers.
From Senator Kelly Hancock
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March 21, 2019
The Texas Senate yesterday passed SB 476 by Sen. Kelly Hancock (R-North Richland Hills), which allows restaurant patrons to be accompanied by a well-behaved and well-controlled dog in an outdoor dining area such as a patio or sidewalk café.
From Senator Kelly Hancock
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April 2, 2019
Sen. Kelly Hancock (R-North Richland Hills) today issued the following statement following the 7-2 Business and Commerce Committee vote in favor of SB 1264, landmark legislation that prohibits surprise medical billing of consumers:
From Senator Kelly Hancock
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April 1, 2019
Sen. Kelly Hancock (R-North Richland Hills) today announced a bipartisan, bicameral deal on legislation that prevents surprise medical billing of consumers in Texas. SB 1264 would allow medical providers to enter arbitration for payment negotiations with health insurance companies, while prohibiting them from sending surprise balance bills to consumers.
From Senator Kelly Hancock
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April 3, 2019
The Texas Senate today passed SR535, by Senator Bettencourt (R-Houston) to recognize that there is an urgent security and humanitarian crisis on the border between the United States and Mexico. Highlighting the urgency of the issue the Texas Senate voted to suspend normal rules and immediately debate the issue on the Senate Floor.
From Senator Paul Bettencourt
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April 4, 2019
Two major education bills by Senator Paul Bettencourt (R-Houston) have been voted out of the Senate Education Committee and will now head to the full Texas Senate. SB 251 would build upon the success of previous legislation for Harris County and expand dual credit opportunities for all Texas students.
From Senator Paul Bettencourt
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April 10, 2019
Senator Paul Bettencourt (R-Houston) passed SB1006, a refile from the 85th session, to the House to bring property tax relief to small businesses around the state, an important piece of the Texas Economy. This bill increases the exemption amount for business personal property from $500 to $2,500, the limit has not been adjusted since 1995. This bill was passed unanimously, 30-0, through the full Senate.
From Senator Paul Bettencourt
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April 10, 2019
Senator Bettencourt (R-Houston) applauded the decision by President Donald Trump to sign two Executive Orders today in Crosby which will make it easier for companies in the energy sector to navigate the permitting and construction process regarding pipeline construction.
From Senator Paul Bettencourt
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April 16, 2019
The Texas Senate has unanimously passed Senate Bill 1772, authored by Senator Paul Bettencourt (R-Houston) to trigger an automatic disaster reappraisal of impacted properties following a major disaster, such as Hurricane Harvey. In the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey many taxpayers were confronted with the cruel reality that they would be taxed at full value on their property that was in many cases completely destroyed.
From Senator Paul Bettencourt
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April 16, 2019
The Texas Senate, under the leadership of Lt. Governor Dan Patrick (R-Texas), took a strong stand for Texas taxpayers by passing Senate Bill 2 (authored by Senator Bettencourt (R-Houston)), the Texas Property Tax Reform and Relief Bill of 2019. All 19 Republicans voted to bring the bill to the floor, after Lt. Governor Patrick inclined he would use existing rules to move blocker bills for SB2 to be heard.
From Senator Paul Bettencourt
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April 16, 2019
The Texas Senate, under the leadership of Lt. Governor Dan Patrick (R-Texas), took a strong stand for Texas taxpayers by passing Senate Bill 2 (authored by Senator Bettencourt (R-Houston)), the Texas Property Tax Reform and Relief Bill of 2019 to 3rd reading.
From Senator Paul Bettencourt
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April 15, 2019
Senator Paul Bettencourt (R-Houston) and 30 other Senate colleagues unanimously passed Senate Bill 1230 out of the Texas Senate to protect private school students from student-teacher misconduct. This bill is expanding on the success of SB7, authored by Senator Bettencourt in the 85th Legislative session, that sought to stamp out the growing plague of inappropriate student-teacher relationships.
From Senator Paul Bettencourt
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April 16, 2019
Today, Senator Peter P. Flores offered a floor amendment during the debate on Senate Bill 2, the Texas Property Tax Reform and Relief Act of 2019. The amendment helps counties cover the unpredictable cost of indigent criminal defense.
From Senator Peter P. Flores
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April 10, 2019
Yesterday, Senator Peter P. Flores voted Yes on CSHB 1, the state budget. This budget allocates funds for the next two years, using a total of $247 billion taxpayer dollars to fund all essential services including: education, health and human services, public safety, infrastructure, cyber security, and more.
From Senator Peter P. Flores
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April 11, 2019
U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) today released the following statements after the Senate confirmed David Morales to fill a judicial vacancy on the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas in Corpus Christi:
From Senator Ted Cruz
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March 28, 2019
U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) today issued the following statement in reaction to the decision by U.S. Air Force officials to station some B-21 bombers at Dyess Air Force Base while placing most of the fleet at Ellsworth AFB in South Dakota:
“Today’s decision reinforces Dyess Air Force Base’s status as the nation’s primary bomber base.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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March 21, 2019
Today 56 Texas business leaders sent a letter to Governor Greg Abbott, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, and the members of the Texas Legislature urging them to “support an investment in early childhood education, which specifically includes investments in full-day prekindergarten.”
From Texans Care for Children
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April 15, 2019
Texans for Lawsuit Reform (TLR) today issued the following statement regarding the Senate’s passage of Senate Bill 1189 by Sen. Dawn Buckingham, which requires accountability and transparency in attorney television advertising.
“The Texas Senate sent a strong message today that our state will not tolerate lawyer advertising practices that unnecessarily alarm Texans and create threats to public health to generate clients,” TLR General Counsel Lee Parsley said.
From Texans for Lawsuit Reform
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April 3, 2019
Texans for Property and Rental Rights (TPRR) is touting a new economic impact study that shows Texas’ short-term rental industry contributed about $3.5 billion to the overall state economy in 2018, while supporting 35,000 full-time jobs. The study conducted by TPX for Austin-based HomeAway, a member of Texans for Property and Rental Rights, was released today.
From Texans For Property and Rental Rights
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April 9, 2019
The Texas Senate on Tuesday took a stand for the health and lives of Texas youth by voting to stop the sale of cigarettes, e-cigarettes and other tobacco products to Texans younger than 21. But the bill was passed with a military exemption that would continue to allow service members to purchase these products at age 18. The Texas 21 coalition, which represents 91 public health organizations, strongly opposes this exemption.
From Texas 21 Coalition
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April 1, 2019
The Texas 21 Coalition, representing 75 public health organizations, on Monday applauded the Senate State Affairs Committee for voting to increase the minimum legal sale age of tobacco – including e-cigarettes – from 18 to 21.
From Texas 21 Coalition
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March 25, 2019
The Texas 21 Coalition on Monday thanked the Texas House Public Health Committee for unanimously (10-0) passing legislation to stop the sale of tobacco to Texans younger than 21. House Bill 749 by state Rep. John Zerwas, M.D., (R-Richmond) has bipartisan support in the Texas House with five co-authors, including Public Health Committee Chair Senfronia Thompson (D-Houston), and seven co-sponsors.
From Texas 21 Coalition
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April 15, 2019
Texas AFL-CIO President Rick Levy issued this statement on the Texas Senate's approval this evening of SB 2485 and SB 2487, which would prevent local governments from enacting improvements to workplace benefits:
"This evening, we watched in disgust as the Senate voted to actually strip paid sick leave and other workplace benefits from hundreds of thousands of Texans.
From Texas AFL-CIO
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April 3, 2019
Texas American Federation of Teachers President Louis Malfaro commented today on the Texas House passing House Bill 3, which addresses school funding and educator pay:
The House plan for educator pay is a common-sense solution that lets school districts increase the pay for all school employees, and we’re pleased that the bill now guarantees those raises locally.
From Texas AFT
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April 15, 2019
Texas Alliance for Life today released the following statement on HB 896. The statement is attributed to Executive Director Joe Pojman, Ph.D.:
Texas Alliance for Life is not recommending the Legislature pass HB 896. Our goal is to completely protect unborn babies from abortion beginning at fertilization.
From Texas Alliance for Life
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April 2, 2019
“The closing of the U.S.-Mexico Border would be economically devastating to Texas. One in five jobs in the Lone Star state is dependent on trade; it is our lifeblood. If you want to create an economic crisis, then shutting down the border will create a financial crisis.
From Texas Association of Business
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April 8, 2019
In a significant increase from two years ago, 16 million people now travel between Houston and North Texas annually – and an overwhelming majority of Texans say they would like to use a high-speed train as a safe, reliable time-saver for those trips.
These are among the key findings of an updated travel trends study, Transforming Travel in Texas, that analyzed the market the Texas high-speed train will serve.
From Texas Central
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April 3, 2019
Today, the Texas Senate passed SB 17, which is a sweeping bill that would empower and protect discriminatory behavior across hundreds of professional activities – including in medical care and in the treatment and support of people living with mental illness.
From Texas Competes Action
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March 29, 2019
The Texas Comptroller’s office recently released A Field Guide to the Taxes of Texas, a periodic report providing an overview of Texas’ major state taxes.
Every two years, the state collects more than $200 billion in state taxes and fees, federal receipts and other sources of revenue.
From Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
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April 10, 2019
I am pleased that Airbnb has reconsidered its decision to remove Israeli owned short-term rentals in the disputed territories of the West Bank. In a recent blog post the company stated, “…Airbnb will not move forward with implementing the removal of listings in the West Bank from the platform.”
From Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
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April 11, 2019
The Texas Senate voted 30-0 on Wednesday to approve the appointments of Thomas F. Butler of Deer Park and Gary Wesson, DDS, MS of Bastrop to the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation.
Commissioner Butler was reappointed to the Commission by Governor Abbott in 2018 during the legislative interim.
From Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
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March 26, 2019
Mike Arismendez has been named deputy executive director of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
Arismendez is a former City Manager and City Council member of the City of Shallowater, and a past legislative director for State Representative Carl H. Isett. He also is a former chair of the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation.
From Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
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March 21, 2019
The Texas Senate voted 31-0 on Wednesday to approve the appointments of Joel Garza, Jr. of Pearland and Gerald R. Callas, MD, FASA of Beaumont to the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation.
Commissioner Callas was appointed by Governor Abbott in 2018 during the legislative interim. Callas is a physician anesthesiologist and partner with Anesthesia Associates in Beaumont.
From Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
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April 15, 2019
Institutional Investor announced recently that the Texas Permanent School Fund (PSF) is a finalist for the Sovereign Wealth Fund of the Year award.
From Texas Education Agency
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April 4, 2019
Texans are one step closer to meaningful eminent domain reform with the Senate's passage of CSSB 421.
From Texas Farm Bureau
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April 4, 2019
Young leaders and grassroots activists from across Texas rallied at the state Capitol today to call on lawmakers to ease unnecessary voting restrictions and reject legislation that adds even more obstacles to voting in Texas.
From Texas Freedom Network
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April 15, 2019
A coalition of reproductive rights and justice organizations (listed at the bottom) is releasing the following statement about the recent public dialogue surrounding anti-abortion legislation and legislators in Texas, particularly state Rep. Jeff Leach, Chair of the Texas House Committee on Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence:
From Texas Freedom Network
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April 2, 2019
Texas Freedom Network President Kathy Miller has the following statement after the Texas Senate today voted to pass SB17, which bars state licensing agencies from taking action if licensed professionals use their religious beliefs as a justification for discriminating against LGBT people:
From Texas Freedom Network
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March 25, 2019
Texas Freedom Network President Kathy Miller is calling today for the Senate State Affairs Committee to reject SB17, a bill that would bar state licensing agencies from taking action if applicants or licensed professionals use their religious beliefs as a justification for discriminating against LGBT Texans.
From Texas Freedom Network
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April 16, 2019
Texas Freedom Network President Kathy Miller has the following statement on the Senate’s preliminary approval today of SB9, a bill that would make it harder for eligible Texans to cast a ballot and threatens them with years in jail and thousands of dollars in fines if they make an honest mistake when registering or trying to vote:
From Texas Freedom Network
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March 26, 2019
The day after a Senate committee approved a sweeping anti-LGBT discrimination bill, SB17, Texas Freedom Network President Kathy Miller pointed to new polling that shows a majority of Texans oppose such laws.
“It’s heartening but not surprising that the majority of Texans reject using religion as a weapon to hurt people and discriminate,” Miller said.
From Texas Freedom Network
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April 17, 2019
Today faith leaders and advocates for equality gathered at the Texas Capitol to express their dismay as the House State Affairs Committee prepared to consider yet another package of bills expanding the legislative assault on LGBTQ Texans.
From Texas Freedom Network
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March 22, 2019
Today Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush posted Amendment 3 to the $5.676 billion State Action Plan for Hurricane Harvey for a federally required 30-day public comment period.
From Texas General Land Office
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April 16, 2019
Members of the Texas Senate Finance Committee turned their focus to the state’s growing senior care crisis during a public hearing held at the State Capitol on Monday. Senate Bill 1050 by State Sen. Bryan Hughes, R-Mineola, was presented to the committee as a much-needed solution to the financial crisis facing Texas nursing homes that won’t increase the state budget.
From Texas Health Care Association
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April 5, 2019
The Texas Health Services Authority (THSA) is pleased to share that Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Paula Anthony-McMann, Ph.D., Victoria Ai Linh Bryant, Pharm.D., Shannon Calhoun, Lourdes Cuellar, Salil Deshpande, M.D., Emily Hartmann, Kenneth James, Jerome Lisk, M.D., Leticia Rodriguez, Jonathan Sandstrom Hill, Siobhan Shahan, and Carlos Vital, M.D. to the Texas Health Services Authority Board of Directors for terms set to expire on June 15, 2019.
From Texas Health Services Authority
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April 4, 2019
Following the passage of HB 3, the public school finance reform measure, Rep. Gina Hinojosa, Chair of the House Democratic Caucus Special Committee on Education, released the following statement:
“This bill is the bill we have been working for. To the teachers who dedicate their working lives to our kids, who for too long have been under-appreciated and unheard: We hear you, and this bill is for you.
From Texas House Democratic Caucus
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April 10, 2019
Rep. Ramon Romero released the following statement responding to the proposal by Governor Greg Abbott, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, and Speaker Dennis Bonnen regarding their support for a one-cent increase in the sales tax:
“It’s a dangerous idea, one that increases taxes on working families to disproportionately provide tax cuts for corporations and the rich over everyday homeowners.
From Texas House Democratic Caucus
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April 3, 2019
The following statement was released by Representative Ina Minjarez, Chair of the HDC Special Committee on Gender Equity, to commemorate Equal Pay Day:
“It is 2019, and pay disparities still exist between men and women in the workplace.
From Texas House Democratic Caucus
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April 3, 2019
Today, the Texas House of Representatives approved House Bill 3 by House Public Education Committee Chairman Dan Huberty. This comprehensive legislation fundamentally transforms how the state funds the public education system in Texas.
“I am very proud of the Texas House today. For the first time in years, we are implementing major reforms to public education funding in Texas.
From Texas House Republican Caucus
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April 17, 2019
Today, the Texas House of Representatives approved House Bill 14 by Representative Lynn Stucky. This legislation provides future law enforcement officers with a student loan repayment assistance program.
From Texas House Republican Caucus
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April 17, 2019
Today, Texas House Republicans approved House Bill 16, also known as the Texas Born-Alive Infant Protection Act, by Representative Jeff Leach.
From Texas House Republican Caucus
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April 11, 2019
Today, the Texas House of Representatives approved several pieces of key legislation addressing disaster recovery and emergency preparedness. In the wake of the devastation left behind by Hurricane Harvey in 2017, House Republicans made these issues a top priority to address during the 86th Legislative Session.
From Texas House Republican Caucus
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April 18, 2019
A group of public and private arts education advocates today announced the formation of its statewide advocacy and grassroots campaign. Texas Coalition for Quality Arts Education aims to educate Texas voters and state lawmakers on the unique importance fine arts programs play in preparing K-12 students for the workforce.
From Texas Music Educators Association
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April 11, 2019
Senator Beverly Powell and House Public Education Committee Chair Dan Huberty were announced as co-chairs for the Texas Legislative Fine Arts Education Caucus. The caucus serves as a distribution hub for legislators to stay updated on developments impacting fine arts education in Texas public schools.
From Texas Music Educators Association
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April 10, 2019
Today, President Trump will be in Houston – the Energy Capitol of the World – where he is expected to announce Executive Orders aimed at modernizing and clarifying regulations that will accelerate the construction of energy infrastructure in Texas and across the United States. Todd Staples, president of the Texas Oil & Gas Association, issued the following statement in anticipation of today’s announcement:
From Texas Oil & Gas Association
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March 26, 2019
Upstream* oil and natural gas employment continued to grow in January 2019, according to data from the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC).
TWC data shows that while employment in oil and natural gas extraction and supporting activities fell by 1,900 jobs in November 2018 compared to October, upstream employment rebounded with a 1,300 job gain in December and another 100 job gain in January 2019.
From Texas Oil & Gas Association
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March 26, 2019
Texas Public Employees Association (TPEA) Executive Director Gary Anderson commented today on the proposed budget (HB 1) and supplemental appropriations bills (SB 500), which the Texas House of Representatives will consider on Wednesday, March 26.
On behalf of 15,000 TPEA members, I would like to express our appreciation to Speaker Bonnen, Chairman Zerwas, and the members of the House Appropriations Committee for their work on HB 1 and SB 500.
From Texas Public Employees Association
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April 15, 2019
As opponents of high-speed rail resort to underhanded legislative maneuvers to preserve the status quo, Texas Rail Advocates is working to rally support to ensure that Texas’ transportation future is not held captive by special interests. The group is currently rallying support and calling on all concerned Texans to contact their representatives in Austin to make their voices heard.
From Texas Rail Advocates
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April 9, 2019
Enthusiasm for expanded rail travel has been building across Texas in recent years, forcing opponents to resort to underhanded legislative tactics in their bid to preserve the status quo. Rather than hold an open debate on the issue, Texas Senator Brian Birdwell (R-Granbury) filed a rider to the Senate budget bill that introduced unnecessary government regulations to stop progress on a high speed rail line to be built between North Texas and Houston.
From Texas Rail Advocates
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April 2, 2019
More than 1000 retired public educators will arrive at the Texas Capitol on the morning of Wednesday, April 3 to implore legislators to improve funding for the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) pension fund and provide them with some financial relief. Donning red shirts and wearing bracelets that read #RAISETHEBASE, retired educators will enjoy a day of advocacy and ice cream on the east lawn.
From Texas Retired Teachers Association
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April 1, 2019
More than 1,000 retired educators will meet in Austin this week at the Texas Retired Teachers Association’s (TRTA) 66th Annual Convention at the Hilton. Attendees from all over Texas will participate in this year’s convention April 1-2, followed by a day of advocacy and ice cream at the Capitol on April 3.
From Texas Retired Teachers Association
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March 25, 2019
More than 1,000 retired educators will meet in Austin next week at the Texas Retired Teachers Association’s (TRTA) 66th Annual Convention at the Hilton. Attendees from all over Texas will participate in this year’s convention April 1-2, followed by a day of advocacy and ice cream at the Capitol on April 3. These public education retirees will discuss the future of their pension fund and the need for a cost-of-living adjustment, among other issues.
From Texas Retired Teachers Association
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March 26, 2019
A suit filed by Texas RioGrande Legal Aid (TRLA) client Diane Wilson against Formosa Plastics opened today with testimony from plaintiffs who collected 2,428 samples of plastic pellets and powders that were illegally discharged into Lavaca Bay and nearby waterways.
From Texas Rio Grande Legal Aid
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April 15, 2019
Senate Bill 2, authored by Chairman of the Texas Senate Republican Caucus, Senator Paul Bettencourt, passed the Senate with all 19 Republican members of the Senate voting to suspend the rules and bring Senate Bill 2 to the floor.
From Texas Senate Republican Caucus
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April 18, 2019
Yesterday afternoon the Texas Senate Republican Caucus held a joint press conference to again call attention to the ongoing humanitarian and security crisis at the border. Caucus Chairman Bettencourt (R-Houston) opened the press conference by remarking, “The Texas Senate recognizes the obvious: there is both a humanitarian and a security crisis on the border.
From Texas Senate Republican Caucus
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March 22, 2019
President Trump today signed an Executive Order protecting freedom of speech on college campuses and incentivizing universities to lessen student debt. The President was surrounded by student activists whose conservative views have been suppressed at universities, including Young Conservatives of Texas State Chair Saurabh Sharma and two members of the Texas Senate Republican Caucus.
From Texas Senate Republican Caucus
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April 3, 2019
Chairman of the Texas Senate Republican Caucus, Paul Bettencourt, put forth Senate Resolution 535, co-authored by all the Republican Senators, this afternoon that declares the crisis at the US-Mexico border an emergency. Chairman Bettencourt, echoing President Trump’s emergency declaration, began by saying, “There is a serious crisis at the border, and we must recognize this obvious fact.”
From Texas Senate Republican Caucus
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April 9, 2019
Senate Bill 23, the Born-Alive Infant Protection Act, authored by Senator Lois Kolkhorst passed the Senate 21-10 with all 19 Republican Senators voting for it. Senate Bill 23 would protect the rights of a living child born after an abortion. Any baby born in Texas is going to be respected as a human being.
From Texas Senate Republican Caucus
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March 21, 2019
Most Texas voters say raising teacher pay is the top priority among education issues for the Legislature to address this year, and they believe lawmakers should provide and fund an across-the-board raise for all teachers rather than leave the responsibility to local school districts, a bipartisan poll conducted for the Texas State Teachers Association shows.
From Texas State Teacher Association
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April 2, 2019
Texans would be able to securely register contact information for friends and family members for immediate notification in the event of an emergency under legislation pending in the Texas Legislature.
State Rep. Four Price, R-Amarillo, has introduced House Bill 1890 that would allow Texans with a driver’s license or state identification card to voluntarily update their emergency contact information at any time with the Texas Department of Public Safety.
From Texas Telephone Association
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March 22, 2019
In the wake of the City of San Antonio banning Chick-fil-A from their airport based upon their religious beliefs and private donations made to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Texas Values and Texas Values Action are once again calling on the legislature to act to protect religious freedom and ensure all Texans are Free To Believe.
From Texas Values
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April 17, 2019
Texas Values has announced today as “Save Chick-fil-A” Day. Texas Values is asking all Texans to join them at the Texas Capitol for a legislative hearing on issues of religious freedom or at their local Chick-fil-A. Recently the San Antonio City Council banned a Chick?fil?A location from the San Antonio International Airport because of Chick-fil-A’s Christian values.
From Texas Values
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April 18, 2019
Today, some San Antonio City Council members attempted to use a procedural measure to reconsider the previous decision by the City of San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg and others to ban a Chick-fil-A store from opening in the city airport. But Mayor Nirenberg took a vote and defeated this effort 6-5, and continued to affirm the ban on Chick-fil-A opening a store in the San Antonio airport because the business owners gave donations to Christian charities, including The Salvation Army.
From Texas Values
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March 25, 2019
Texas Values Action along with numerous survivors of abortion testified in support of HB16, The Born Alive Infant Protection Act, today at the Texas Capitol. Sending a strong message that Texas will set the standard on protecting life after Committee Democrats failed to even show up to the hearing.
From Texas Values Action
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April 2, 2019
The Texas State Senate voted 19-12 today, a bipartisan vote, on the second reading of SB17 to protect religious freedom for occupational license holders.
Nicole Hudgens, Senior Policy Analyst for Texas Values Action said “No Texas professional should fear the government taking away their livelihood because of their faith. We applaud Senator Charles Perry for his work to protect religious freedom for Texas license holders.”
From Texas Values Action
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April 9, 2019
Today the Texas Senate passed on final reading SB23 the Born Alive Infant Protection Act with a bipartisan vote of 21-10. Sens. Lucio and Zaffirini, both Democrats, supported the legislation.
From Texas Values Action
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April 1, 2019
The TX Neighborhood Coalition, Neighbors for Short Term Rental Reform, and Mothers Against STRs, representing thousands of members from over a dozen cities across Texas, stand opposed to legislation proposed by Representative Angie Chen Button and Senator Pat Fallon that would strip the ability of cities to regulate short-term rentals (STRs) at the local level.
From TX Neighborhood Coalition
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April 2, 2019
Today Wesley Hunt, an Army combat veteran and Houston-area businessman, announced his candidacy for Congress as a Republican in Texas’s 7th Congressional District, pledging to protect the Houston area’s values and way of life:
“Changing Washington won’t be easy, but graduating from West Point and serving in the United States Army, being deployed to combat zones and flying Apache helicopters over Iraq has prepared me for tough fights and big challenges.
From Wesley Hunt Campaign
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April 3, 2019
Yesterday Wesley Hunt, an Army combat veteran and Houston-area businessman, announced his candidacy for Congress as a Republican in Texas’s 7th Congressional District, pledging to protect the Houston area’s values and way of life. Below are excerpts from media coverage of Hunt’s announcement:
From Wesley Hunt Campaign
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 Copyright April 20, 2019, Harvey Kronberg, www.quorumreport.com, All rights are reserved
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