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June 14, 2017
Texas ranks 35th when it comes to meeting the long-term care needs of older residents and people with disabilities, and AARP warns more must be done, at an accelerated pace, to meet changing demographic demands.
From AARP
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May 29, 2017
Older Texans have cause to celebrate several major accomplishments of the 2017 Texas regular legislative session.
In the final hours of the session, lawmakers approved a top priority for AARP Texas – major nursing home quality reforms that seek to hold operators of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities more accountable when they have been found to have done harm to their residents.
From AARP Texas
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June 19, 2017
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) is deeply troubled by Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s signing of House Bill 3859 into law. This legislation empowers private child placing agencies to
From Anti-Defamation League
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June 27, 2017
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) filed an amicus brief in federal court in support of several Texas cities seeking to halt implementation of Senate Bill 4 (“SB4”). This bill would require local police to question legally detained or arrested individuals, as well as victims and witnesses, about their immigration status, and would punish officials who refuse to comply with federal immigration law.
From Anti-Defamation League
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June 27, 2017
Aurora Martinez Jones, Associate Judge for Travis County, has filed for election to the 459th Civil District Court, and says her top campaign priority is to work hard to care for the children and families of Travis County with a focus on children in the state’s foster care system.
From Aurora Martinez Jones Campaign
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June 21, 2017
Monday, Rep. Briscoe Cain announced his re-election campaign to the Texas House of Representatives from District 128. Cain was recently named the most conservative legislator in Texas by a Rice University study.
From Briscoe Cain Campaign
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June 14, 2017
Many Texas kids are not growing up with the support, educational opportunities or economic stability they need, according to the 2017 KIDS COUNT® Data Book, released today by the Annie E. Casey Foundation. Following Texas’s 85th legislative session, which repeatedly prioritized politics over common-sense policies that could have broadly improved children's lives, this national report ranks Texas 41st in child well-being.
From Center for Public Policy Priorities
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June 6, 2017
Today Governor Greg Abbott called a special session of the Texas Legislature to address 20 items including a misguided second attempt to limit local governments' ability to raise revenue (SB 2).
In response, CPPP Executive Director Ann Beeson issued the following statement:
From Center for Public Policy Priorities
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May 28, 2017
This evening the Texas Senate and House approved Senate Bill 1, the 2018-2019 budget for the state of Texas.
In response, Center for Public Policy Priorities Executive Director Ann Beeson issued the following statement:
"The state budget for 2018-2019 is a mixed bag that, overall, does not do enough to invest in a strong future for hard-working Texans and their families.
From Center for Public Policy Priorities
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June 22, 2017
Following the release of the U.S. Senate's health care proposal this morning, Patrick Bresette, Texas Executive Director of the Children’s Defense Fund, released the following statement:
“Today we learned why the U.S. Senate kept their version of the health care repeal bill secret for so long.
From Children's Defense Fund Texas
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May 29, 2017
Texas defense communities are celebrating passage of legislation to protect military bases with aviation missions from encroachments by wind turbine developments -- Senate Bill 277 by Senator Donna Campbell (R-New Braunfels) and Representative James Frank (R-Wichita Falls).
From City of Corpus Christi
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June 12, 2017
An Amarillo nurse practitioner with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is the first in Texas to be granted full practice authority.
From Coalition for Health Care Access
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June 12, 2017
Today, State Representative Dade Phelan announced that he will run for re-?election to the Texas House of Representatives. Phelan is currently serving his second term as the Texas House Representative for House District 21, which covers part of Jefferson County and all of Orange County.
From Dade Phelan Campaign
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June 19, 2017
Conservative State Representative Ed Thompson today announced he will seek re-election to the Texas House of Representatives in House District 29, the area covering the northern part of Brazoria County, including the cities of Pearland, Alvin, Manvel, Brookside Village, Hillcrest, Iowa Colony, and Liverpool.
From Ed Thompson Campaign
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June 6, 2017
Non-profit CEO Elliott McFadden launched his campaign today for the Democratic nomination to defeat Congressman Lamar Smith (TX-21), calling the 30-year career politician an ideological extremist and tool of corporate interests.
From Elliott McFadden Campaign
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June 6, 2017
Following Gov. Greg Abbott's call for a special session, the president of Empower Texans, Michael Quinn Sullivan, offered the following statement.
"Texans insist on substantive property tax reform, and Gov. Abbott has answered their call," said Sullivan.
From Empower Texans
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June 1, 2017
Today, President Trump abandoned the United States’ commitment to reducing pollution under the Paris Climate Agreement. This action increases the risks that the world will face from global warming – including dirtier air, water and food shortages, spreading disease, increasingly extreme weather, and loss of land mass to flooding.
From Environment Texas
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June 14, 2017
Governor Greg Abbott today vetoed funding for two crucial programs for reducing air pollution in the state. “This veto is penny wise and pound foolish,” said Brian Zabcik, the Clean Air & Clean Water Advocate at Environment Texas. “It sacrifices the long-term health of all Texans for an imagined financial gain.”
From Environment Texas
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June 14, 2017
Austin state Sen. Kirk Watson and Rep. Donna Howard were the only two legislators to get perfect marks on Environment Texas’ biennial scorecard of environmental votes in the Texas Legislature, the group reported today. Meanwhile a record 27 legislators failed to cast a single vote for the environment.
From Environment Texas
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May 30, 2017
Restoration of a rebate program to help Texans buy electric cars was a rare bright spot amid what was otherwise a bad session of the Texas Legislature for the environment, said Environment Texas.
From Environment Texas
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June 26, 2017
“Today’s CBO score proves that Republicans in Congress aren’t serious about helping Americans access quality, affordable health care.
From Jason Westin Campaign
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June 1, 2017
“With the announcement today of his intention to withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement, President Trump continues his assault on fact based policies.
From Jason Westin Campaign
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June 5, 2017
State Senator Joan Huffman (R-Houston) today announced she will seek reelection to the State Senate. Huffman represents Senate District 17, which includes portions of Brazoria, Fort Bend and Harris Counties.
From Joan Huffman Campaign
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June 19, 2017
Today State Representative John Wray announced that he will seek re-election to the Texas House of Representatives. Currently serving his second term, Wray delivered on his promise to continue conservative and effective representation for House District 10, which encompasses Ellis County and Western Henderson County.
From John Wray Campaign
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June 21, 2017
The Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas would like to thank Governor Greg Abbott for signing legislation to allow the Tribe to better exercise its deeply held religious beliefs.
HB 1891 allows tribal members to expand the hunting of anterless deer for use in religious ceremonies. Current state law restricts hunting of anterless deer to three months of the year.
From Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas
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June 6, 2017
Today, State Senator Konni Burton (R) officially announced the beginning of her campaign for reelection to Senate District 10:
"I am extremely proud of the work our team has done on behalf of the people of Senate District 10 and am excited to ask for their support again.
From Konni Burton Campaign
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June 20, 2017
State Representative Mike Schofield (R-Katy) announced today that he will seek re- election to a third term representing Katy and Cypress in the Texas House of Representatives, District 132, in the 2018 election.
From Mike Schofield Campaign
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June 27, 2017
The Texas Ethics Commission (TEC) has now resolved all enforcement efforts related to Zimmerman’s 2014 payment to his wife for campaign work without any finding that a violation occurred and without any fine.
From Najvar Law Firm
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June 26, 2017
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton today praised a 7-2 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that religious institutions should be eligible to receive public funds for secular purposes. The case revolved around Trinity Lutheran Church in Columbia, Missouri, which sought to participate in a state program that reimburses the cost of rubberizing playground surfaces.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 26, 2017
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton today praised the United States Supreme Court for its decision to allow crucial parts of President Trump’s revised executive order on immigration to take effect. The high court agreed to hear the arguments on the temporary travel ban at the start of the fall term.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 23, 2017
Attorney General Ken Paxton today expressed his appreciation to President Trump and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) after the DOJ formally announced that it will support the attorney general’s defense of a lawsuit to uphold the constitutionality of a ban on sanctuary cities (Senate Bill 4) in Texas.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 27, 2017
Leading a 12-state coalition, Attorney General Ken Paxton filed an amicus brief in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, arguing that the Massachusetts and New York attorneys general are abusing their authority by punishing ExxonMobil Corporation for its climate change views.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 26, 2017
The U.S. Supreme Court today granted review in a religious liberty case from Colorado. The case involves Jack Phillips and his custom-cake business, Masterpiece Cakeshop, who declined to make a cake for a same-sex ceremony based on his deeply-held religious belief that marriage is the union of one man and one woman.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 26, 2017
The U.S. Supreme Court today ruled for Texas in a death penalty case involving Erick Davila, a Fort Worth man who killed a 5-year-old and her grandmother at a children’s birthday party while attempting to shoot rival gang members.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 22, 2017
Attorney General Ken Paxton hailed a ruling today by the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which dismissed a challenge against the state of Mississippi’s religious freedom law (HB 1523). Attorney General Paxton sided with Mississippi in an amicus brief filed in the 5th Circuit on behalf of nine states last November.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 23, 2017
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton today released his assessment of the recent Texas Relocation Report, a study by the Texas Association of Realtors. In the report, Texas ranked second among states adding new residents from other states, based on the influx and outflow of people.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 27, 2017
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton today joined West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey, Wisconsin Attorney General Brad Schimel and 19 other state attorneys general in supporting the repeal of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 20, 2017
Attorney General Ken Paxton announced that Texas joined a 10-state coalition filing an amicus brief supporting the constitutionality of President Trump’s Executive Order regarding sanctuary cities.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 20, 2017
In an effort to protect Texas consumers, Attorney General Ken Paxton today urged the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to deny a petition by the broadband industry to strip states of their authority to investigate and settle claims over false and misleading advertising about broadband Internet speed.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 20, 2017
Attorney General Ken Paxton joined a 20-state coalition in requesting the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) preserve the role of the states in protecting the nation’s water sources.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 9, 2017
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton today announced that the Child Support Division of his office received the 2017 award for the Best Mobile/Wireless Project from the Center for Digital Government. The award recognizes the Child Support Division for their work on the Child Support Interactive Mobile Web and Kiosk Project.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 15, 2017
Attorney General Ken Paxton today filed a friend-of-the-court brief with the Texas Supreme Court, asking the court to affirm a decision by the San Antonio Court of Appeals against unlawful bag bans.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 14, 2017
Attorney General Ken Paxton today named the Office of Solicitor General’s fellowship program after the late Gregory S. Coleman, who served as the first solicitor general of Texas. As the chief appellate lawyer for the state of Texas, the solicitor general supervises all appellate litigation on behalf of the attorney general’s office.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 2, 2017
Earlier this week, Attorney General Ken Paxton filed a motion that asks the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to declare that the federal government is not in compliance with the Nuclear Waste Policy Act (NWPA). Texas also asked for an injunction to stop the Department of Energy (DOE) from illegally spending money on matters not approved by Congress.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 6, 2017
Leading a coalition of 16 states, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton yesterday filed an amicus brief in the Supreme Court supporting President Trump’s executive order temporarily pausing the entry of foreign nationals from six terror-prone counties.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 6, 2017
Attorney General Ken Paxton urged President Trump to lead a regulatory reform effort to protect individual rights from federal overreach. A coalition of 16 state attorneys general signed a letter authored by Attorney General Paxton and sent to the president on May 22.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 2, 2017
Last night, Attorney General Ken Paxton filed an advisory with a district court judge in Corpus Christi after Governor Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 5 into law earlier this week. Senate Bill 5 includes changes to Texas’ voter ID law ordered by the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals and protects the integrity of elections.
From Office of the Attorney General
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May 31, 2017
Attorney General Ken Paxton today urged the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to reverse a district court decision that blocked implementation of Texas’ new rules on the humane disposition of fetal remains.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 2, 2017
Attorney General Ken Paxton today thanked President Trump for withdrawing the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement. Just over a week ago, a 10-state coalition including Attorney General Paxton sent a letter to the president urging him to take today’s action.
From Office of the Attorney General
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May 28, 2017
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following the passage of Senate Bill 1, the General Appropriations Act, for fiscal year 2018-19. The budget passed by a vote of 30 to 1:
"This state budget is more than a billion dollars less in general revenue than our current budget.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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June 6, 2017
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following Governor Greg Abbott's announcement that he is calling the Texas Legislature back to Austin for a special session beginning July 18, 2017:
"I want to congratulate Governor Abbott for his big and bold special session agenda which solidly reflects the priorities of the people of Texas.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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May 29, 2017
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today after gaveling sine die for the regular 85th legislative session:
"I began this session with a strong conservative agenda that affirmed my commitment to property tax reform, women's privacy, life, the second amendment, border security, religious liberty and a lean and efficient government.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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June 14, 2017
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following Wednesday morning's shooting of House Majority Whip Steve Scalise of Louisiana, UT graduate, Zack Barth who serves as a legislative aide for U.S. Rep. Roger Williams, R-Texas, and two U.S. Capitol Police officers, Krystal Griner and David Bailey:
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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June 14, 2017
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following Gov. Greg Abbott's signing of the 2018-2019 state budget into law:
"The Texas Senate took the lead on the conservative state budget which Gov. Abbott signed today. This budget is more than a billion dollars less in general revenue than our current budget and contains no new taxes and no new fees.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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June 22, 2017
As the Texas Legislature prepares to meet in a special session, today a broad and diverse coalition of advocacy organizations is releasing an open letter condemning the cruel politics driving an extremist legislative agenda that threatens the rights, health and lives of vulnerable Texans.
From Planned Parenthood Texas Votes
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June 12, 2017
On Monday, Planned Parenthood advocates will deliver over 15,000 petition signatures to Gov.Greg Abbott from Texans that oppose the state’s controversial 1115 waiver application for the Healthy Texas Women program.
From Planned Parenthood Texas Votes
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May 28, 2017
Today, the Texas House of Representatives adopted the final version of the 2018-2019 state budget that specifically attacks access to care at Planned Parenthood. The budget not only continues to block Planned Parenthood health centers from participating in the state’s Healthy Texas Women and Breast and Cervical Cancer Services (BCCS) programs -- it contains a far-reaching provision banning Planned Parenthood from receiving any state dollars.
From Planned Parenthood Texas Votes
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June 14, 2017
Governor Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 1731 into law on June 12. This new state legislation authored by Senator Brian Birdwell, R-Granbury, among other policy enhancements, renews the Texas Emissions Reduction Plan (TERP). TERP is a sixteen-year-old state-sponsored grants program deploying cost effective strategies to limit mobile source emissions, which are responsible for more than one-half of harmful emissions in the state.
From Plug-In Texas
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June 22, 2017
Yesterday a federal judge sided with the Justice Department in refusing to permit the proposed merger of Energy Solutions and its competitor in nuclear waste disposal, Waste Control Specialists.
This ruling is just the latest blow to WCS, which has long been in financial trouble, having never turned a profit from disposing of radioactive waste.
From Public Citizen
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May 30, 2017
The 85th Legislature gave all Texans a surprising bit of good news when they extended the programs for the Texas Emissions Reduction Program (TERP), which was set to expire in 2019.
From Public Citizen
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June 5, 2017
Last week, President Donald Trump withdrew the United States from the Paris Climate Accord, clearly demonstrating his commitment to putting America first and prioritizing jobs for middle-class Americans.
From Railroad Commission of Texas
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June 7, 2017
On May 29th, another 140-day term of the Texas Legislature came to an end. Working with less revenue, with shortfalls forecasted by the Texas Comptroller due to the economic downturn in oil and gas prices, the Legislature nonetheless put together another two-year state budget.
From Representative Andrew Murr
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June 26, 2017
In January, at the start of the 85th Legislative Session, Governor Greg Abbott made it clear to members of the House and Senate that improving Child Protective Services and Texas’ foster care program needed to be a top priority for this Legislature. I wholeheartedly concurred with the Governor’s assessment as the CPS system in Texas has been inadequate for far too many years.
From Representative Andrew Murr
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June 15, 2017
State Representative Armando Walle (D-Houston) released the following statement in response to Governor Abbott's veto on Senate Bill 570, authored by Sen. José Rodríguez (D-El Paso), regulating used and scrap tire disposal. Senate Bill 570 was sponsored and passed in the House by Rep. Walle, who also authored the companion House bill.
From Representative Armando Walle
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June 7, 2017
State Representative Armando Walle (D-Houston) released the following statement regarding Governor Greg Abbott’s announcement of what will be included in the call for the legislative special session to begin July 18th, 2017.
From Representative Armando Walle
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June 7, 2017
U.S. Rep. Brian Babin (R-TX), who is Chairman of House Space Subcommittee, today joined Vice President Mike Pence, U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) and U.S. House Science, Space, and Technology Committee Chairman Lamar Smith (R-TX) for the 2017 Astronaut Selection Announcement Ceremony at NASA’s Johnson Space Center.
From Representative Brian Babin
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June 20, 2017
U.S. Rep. Brian Babin (TX-36) today filed legislation to grant properly trained and certified Members of Congress the ability to conceal carry a personal firearm wherever their duties take them. T
From Representative Brian Babin
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June 9, 2017
U.S. Rep. Brian Babin (R-TX) voted this week to pass the Financial CHOICE Act (H.R. 10), which creates a more reliable and accountable financial system by repealing the most onerous provisions of Dodd-Frank that have hampered economic growth and job creation.
From Representative Brian Babin
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June 14, 2017
U.S. Rep. Brian Babin (TX-36) issued the following statement in response to this morning’s shooting at a Republican congressional baseball practice in Alexandria, VA:
“I am deeply sickened and angry by this morning’s targeted shooting of Republicans at a congressional baseball practice.
From Representative Brian Babin
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June 26, 2017
U.S. Rep. Brian Babin (R-TX) issued the following statement today in response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s unanimous ruling to reinstate much of President Trump’s executive order on extreme vetting to take effect:
From Representative Brian Babin
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May 30, 2017
U.S. Rep. Brian Babin (R-TX) sent a letter to President Trump last week requesting a full review of each case involving any U.S. service member who is currently imprisoned in U.S. prisons for certain actions taken during combat in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.
From Representative Brian Babin
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June 27, 2017
U.S. Rep. Brian Babin (R-TX) issued the following statement today applauding the EPA’s decision to repeal the Obama-era Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule that would have given the federal government unprecedented authority to regulate virtually all water flows in America, including ditches and farmland ponds:
From Representative Brian Babin
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May 29, 2017
Late Sunday night, after two years of work, State Rep. Brooks Landgraf (R-Odessa) secured a win for Texas energy with the passage of the Texas Fuels bill just before the deadline to pass legislation expired. For the first time, Texas will commit to providing state grants for governmental entities to purchase vehicles that utilize the abundant natural gas widely found in Texas.
From Representative Brooks Landgraf
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May 29, 2017
Today is Sine Die, the last day of the 140 day Texas Legislative Session. Representative César J. Blanco issued to the following statement:
"My constituents sent me to the Legislature to fight for their needs and bring results home. Despite some defeats on some of the more socially-divisive issues, I am pleased to say that our office has delivered major legislative victories for El Paso and all Texans.
From Representative Cesar Blanco
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May 29, 2017
Late yesterday, the Texas House of Representatives adopted the Conference Committee Report to S.B. 1, the State budget for the 2018-2019 fiscal years. Representative Blanco voted in favor of adopting the 2018-2019 state budget.
From Representative Cesar Blanco
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June 12, 2017
Governor Abbott has signed into law S.B. 27, The Help for Texas Heroes Act. S.B. 27 was authored by Senator Campbell and sponsored by Representative César J. Blanco in the Texas House.
From Representative Cesar Blanco
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June 14, 2017
Today, Governor Abbott signed into law S.B.1, the State budget for the 2018-2019 fiscal years, while vetoing certain line items worth approximately $120 million in state spending. Representative Blanco voted in favor of adopting the 2018-2019 state budget because of the major investments it makes in El Paso and District 76.
From Representative Cesar Blanco
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June 14, 2017
Texas ranks second in the nation for food insecurity. Nearly two million Texas children struggle with hunger; our schools need every possible tool to aid these students. "The Student Fairness in Feeding Act," which was signed by the Governor on Friday, allows schools to address student hunger with two major mechanisms:
From Representative Diego Bernal
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June 15, 2017
After receiving word of Governor Greg Abbott's veto of SB 790, which would extend the Women's Health Advisory Committee by another two years, State Representative Donna Howard issued the following statement:
From Representative Donna Howard
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May 29, 2017
Over Memorial Day Weekend, the Texas House and Senate sent two bills to the Governor's desk which contained amendments that substantially advance the use of Open Education Resources (OER) in the State of Texas.
From Representative Donna Howard
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May 31, 2017
On Monday, after 140 days of grueling debate and several intense moments, the 85th Legislative Session officially came to a close.
From Representative Drew Springer
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June 26, 2017
Today, Rep. Drew Springer (R-Muenster) sent a letter to Governor Greg Abbott requesting that the special session call be expanded to address funding for small, rural school districts. As a representative of 22 rural counties in north and west Texas, Rep. Springer is well-aware of the devastating effects that the funding shortfall will have on small school districts and has stressed the need to continue funding for these schools.
From Representative Drew Springer
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June 23, 2017
“Today, the California Legislature prohibited the expenditure of its state funds for state employee travel to Texas because of our morals and ethics. Months ago, I offered an amendment to the Texas state budget to counter this type of nonsense --- my amendment would have reciprocated if another state did this very thing.
From Representative Dustin Burrows
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June 15, 2017
Today, Governor Greg Abbott vetoed a bill related to “homestead preservation districts,” an innovative tool that cities use to preserve existing affordable housing.
State Representative Eddie Rodriguez issued the following statement regarding the veto:
From Representative Eddie Rodriguez
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May 28, 2017
Today, the Texas House of Representatives approved the conference committee report on SB 1, Texas’s budget for the next biennium.
State Representative Eddie Rodriguez issued the following statement regarding SB 1:
From Representative Eddie Rodriguez
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June 7, 2017
Today, Governor Greg Abbott called for a special session that will begin on July 18. After Texas Medical Board sunset legislation passes the Texas Senate, the governor called on the legislature to take up a number of conservative priorities that have failed to gain traction in the Texas Legislature.
From Representative Eddie Rodriguez
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May 28, 2017
The Texas House and Senate have agreed on a $217 billion budget for the 2018-2019 biennium. The House voted 135-14 to pass the final version. Representative Eric Johnson (D-Dallas) voted against the proposed budget, citing a lack of adequate funding for the state's critical needs.
From Representative Eric Johnson
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June 15, 2017
House Bill 245, authored by Representative Eric Johnson (D-Dallas), was signed into law today by Governor Greg Abbott. The new law creates a civil penalty for law enforcement agencies that fail to report officer-involved shootings and peace officer injuries and deaths to the Office of the Attorney General. The law will go into effect on September 1, 2017.
From Representative Eric Johnson
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June 14, 2017
Representative Eric Johnson’s House Bill 674 was signed into law today by Governor Greg Abbott. The law is effective immediately, meaning out-of-school suspensions for students in prekindergarten through second grade are now banned in Texas except in cases involving drugs, weapons, or extreme violence.
From Representative Eric Johnson
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June 15, 2017
Today, June 15, 2017, Governor Abbott signed SB 1849, known as the Sandra Bland Act into law. SB 1849 by Senator Whitmire is the Senate companion to HB 2702 that Representative Garnet Coleman (D-147) wrote in the House.
From Representative Garnet Coleman
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May 31, 2017
On the evenings of Friday, June 2, 2017 and Saturday, June 3, 2017 the Montrose Bridges over Highway 59 will be illuminated in orange for National Gun Violence Awareness Day, courtesy of Representative Garnet Coleman (D-147).
From Representative Garnet Coleman
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May 31, 2017
House Bill 7, a Child Protective Services omnibus bill authored by State Representative Gene Wu (D- Houston) and signed into law today by Governor Greg Abbott, overhauls the legal process surrounding CPS suits.
From Representative Gene Wu
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May 28, 2017
Saturday afternoon the Texas House of Representatives gave final approval for Senate Bill 1, the General Appropriations Act, by a vote of 135 to 14. The bill allocates $216.8 billion for the next biennium, including close to $1 million in Economic Stabilization Funds (ESF).
From Representative Gene Wu
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June 20, 2017
Today, State Representative Gene Wu appeared before Houston City Council to speak in support of joining the lawsuit to challenge the constitutionality of Senate Bill 4. Signed into law by Governor Abbott in May, the bill has been the subject of massive protests, and has drawn widespread condemnation from around the nation.
From Representative Gene Wu
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June 5, 2017
District 49 State Representative Gina Hinojosa completed a successful first term by passing nine pieces of Legislation headed to the Governor’s desk, including four stand-alone bills, two additional bills that were amended onto other pieces of legislation and passed, and three amendments to the state budget.
From Representative Gina Hinojosa
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May 28, 2017
On May 27th, the Texas Senate concurred with Rep. Helen Giddings' amendment on SB 1566, which empowers school district boards of trustees to offer a grace period for lunch accounts with a negative balance.
Under current law, schools have engaged in the practice known as 'lunch shaming', where children with insufficient funds in their lunch accounts see their hot meal taken from them and thrown in the trash.
From Representative Helen Giddings
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June 15, 2017
Joined by donors, allies, and parents, Rep. Helen Giddings announced over $216,000 in donations to end "lunch shaming" in Texas schools.
On May 23rd, Rep. Giddings and Feeding Texas, the statewide network of food banks, kicked off a fundraising campaign to fill the lunch accounts of needy children in schools.
From Representative Helen Giddings
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June 12, 2017
Governor Greg Abbott has signed HB 2619 into law. This bill, by State Representative Helen Giddings (Dallas), will create a new grant program to support officer mental healthcare in police departments across the state.
From Representative Helen Giddings
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June 12, 2017
After Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) directed them to do so, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has released a report on its search and rescue efforts, including the causes of death of migrants attempting to cross the southwest border.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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June 15, 2017
Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced significant funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs, including a $4 billion discretionary funding increase, in the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Bill for FY 2018.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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June 20, 2017
Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced new measures for the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to more efficiently fight disease and food-borne illnesses, including some border-specific efforts that could save businesses money and avoid wasted food.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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June 20, 2017
Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced the National Farmworkers Jobs Program would receive $81,896,000 for the 2017 fiscal year, consistent with 2016 funding. He also pushed the Department of Interior to improve cooperation with state governments on worker protection standards.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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June 22, 2017
Today, Senator John Cornyn (TX) and Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) sent a letter to Ambassador Robert E. Lighthizer, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, requesting that he meet with all Members of Congress representing constituencies along the U.S.-Mexico border to discuss modernization of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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June 27, 2017
Last week, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) took three separate steps to help struggling Americans lift themselves from poverty by pursuing education and entering the workforce. Local leaders including the Superintendent of Floresville Independent School District applauded the decisions.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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June 27, 2017
“Today the independent Congressional Budget Office calculated that the Senate health care legislation will leave 22 million more Americans uninsured. My most vulnerable constituents - people with disabilities, older Americans, children, working families - would be hit the hardest. This is unacceptable.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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June 9, 2017
Yesterday, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) hosted Assistant U.S. Trade Representative Christopher Jackson and Deputy Assistant U.S. Trade Representative Cameron Bishop to discuss the modernization of NAFTA and the need for America, not China, to lead the world on trade.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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June 7, 2017
Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives in support of the Anti-Border Corruption Reauthorization Act of 2017, a bipartisan bill he is co-sponsoring to solve the severe staffing shortage faced by Customs and Border Protection.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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May 29, 2017
Keifer Marshall Jr., former Temple mayor and World War II rifleman who served in the Marines, died Monday morning in Temple. State Representative Hugh D. Shine offered the following comment in response to the news of Marshall's passing:
From Representative Hugh Shine
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June 20, 2017
After being elected to serve the constituents of House District 124 in April of 2015, Representative Minjarez served only 30 days in the 84th Legislative Session. With the 85th Legislative session being her first full session, she still qualified for the Rookie of the year category.
From Representative Ina Minjarez
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May 29, 2017
Today, the Texas House of Representatives and Senate approved final passage of two bills that will enact transformational changes in the Texas child welfare system.
"I applaud my colleagues in the House and Senate for changing the status quo in our state's Child Protective Services (CPS) system by approving two strong reform bills," said Rep. Frank.
From Representative James Frank
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May 29, 2017
From Representative James Frank
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June 21, 2017
Today, Rep. Villalba announced his run for re-election to the Texas House of Representatives, serving House District 114. Villalba has served three terms in the Texas Legislature and has been named Legislator of the Year by organizations such MADD, the SPCA and the Dallas Police Association.
From Representative Jason Villalba
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June 21, 2017
Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued the following statement after this morning’s open hearing with former Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson:
From Representative Joaquin Castro
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June 22, 2017
Today, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) released the following statement regarding Senate Republicans’ proposed healthcare legislation:
“The new healthcare bill would be a disaster for Texans. It was drafted in secret by just 13 guys in the Senate, and then made public only after getting lobbyists’ approval.
From Representative Joaquin Castro
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June 27, 2017
Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) issued the following statement after the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office released its analysis of Senate Republicans’ healthcare bill:
“Like the House’s legislation, the Senate healthcare bill will force working families and seniors to pay jacked up prices for worse care.
From Representative Joaquin Castro
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June 15, 2017
Today, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), First Vice Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, issued the following statement to mark the fifth anniversary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program:
From Representative Joaquin Castro
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June 14, 2017
Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) issued the following statement after this morning’s shooting at a practice for the Congressional baseball game:
“My prayers are with Congressman Scalise, the injured Capitol Police officers, Congressman Williams’ injured staff member, and all of their loved ones after this morning’s terrible attack.
From Representative Joaquin Castro
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June 1, 2017
Today, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) issued the following statement after President Donald Trump announced his decision to withdraw the United States from participation in the Paris Climate Accord:
“Leaving the Paris Agreement is an abandonment of U.S. global leadership.
From Representative Joaquin Castro
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June 7, 2017
Today, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, released the following statement regarding former FBI Director James Comey’s written testimony for tomorrow’s Senate Select Committee on Intelligence hearing:
From Representative Joaquin Castro
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June 2, 2017
The 85th Texas Legislature's Regular Session has ended. State Sen. José Rodríguez passed 50 bills, including those addressing education, health care, courts, criminal justice, local governance, and more. Sen. Rodríguez will send information regarding some of those over the course of this week.
From Representative Jose Rodriguez
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June 8, 2017
Following last week’s signature by the Governor, Representative Lina Ortega released the following statement:
"I am grateful to have passed House Bill 1410, which ensures that children in our Child Protective Services system have the best possible chance of reuniting with their parents.
From Representative Lina Ortega
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May 29, 2017
Representative Mary E. González celebrated her most successful legislative session to date as the 85th Legislature adjourned Sine die today. González passed six bills that now await Governor Greg Abbott's signature, served her first term on the powerful House Appropriations Committee, and served as Vice-Chair of the House Agriculture & Livestock Committee.
From Representative Mary Gonzalez
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May 28, 2017
Today, Representative Mary E. González voted in favor of the Texas budget, Senate Bill 1, to pass the House. The budget, though imperfect, contains key provisions that benefit El Paso County.
From Representative Mary Gonzalez
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May 29, 2017
Last night, both the House and Senate passed the final version of the 2018/2019 state budget. The budget prioritizes border security, foster care and mental health services.
From Representative Poncho Nevarez
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June 7, 2017
Today, Governor Abbott called lawmakers back to Austin to address the Texas Medical Board Sunset Bill that was held hostage by Lieutenant Governor Patrick. After this bill has passed the Senate, 19 items will be added to the agenda. The special session will last 30 days starting on July 18th, 2018.
From Representative Poncho Nevarez
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June 1, 2017
A bill by Representative R.D. "Bobby" Guerra that promotes computer science was signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott.
From Representative R.D. "Bobby" Guerra
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June 12, 2017
Governor Greg Abbott signed House Bill 2537 by Representative R.D. "Bobby" Guerra into law. HB 2537 will require high school counselors to provide information on financial assistance or waivers for post-secondary education to students who are in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services.
From Representative R.D. "Bobby" Guerra
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June 20, 2017
Representative R.D. "Bobby" Guerra's bill addressing the Zika virus was signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott.
This key legislation will provide more resources to aid the Department of State Health Services in tracking, studying, and preventing the spread of the Zika virus.
From Representative R.D. "Bobby" Guerra
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June 20, 2017
State Representative Richard Peña Raymond today formally requested that Mayor Pete Saenz and the Laredo City Council and Webb County Judge Tano Tijerina and the Webb County Commissioner's Court join and be part of the lawsuit recently filed by the City of El Cenizo and Texas League of Latin American Citizens (LULAC), Inc. against the State of Texas in an effort to stop the implementation of Senate Bill 4, the so called "show me your papers" law, also referred to as "the sanctuary cities" law.
From Representative Richard Pena Raymond
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June 27, 2017
Today, State Representative Rick Miller announced that he will seek re-election to the Texas House of Representatives. Currently serving in his third term, Miller continued to build on the momentum he gained during his first two terms in the House.
From Representative Rick Miller
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June 15, 2017
Today Governor Greg Abbott signed House Bill 490 by State Representative Rodney Anderson into law. House Bill 490 provides insurance coverage for medically necessary hearing aids and cochlear implants for children age 18 and younger.
From Representative Rodney Anderson
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June 27, 2017
Congressman Roger Williams (R – Austin), released the following statement in response to the Trump administration’s removal of the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule.
From Representative Roger Williams
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June 14, 2017
Congressman Roger Williams’ office (R – Austin), released the following information Wednesday after shots were fired at the Republican congressional baseball team practice in Alexandria, Virginia.
From Representative Roger Williams
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June 22, 2017
Congressman Roger Williams (R – Austin), who represents Fort Hood, one of the largest United States military installations in the world, released the following statement Wednesday after the passing of retired General Robert M. Shoemaker.
From Representative Roger Williams
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June 8, 2017
Congressman Roger Williams (R – Austin), a member of the House Committee on Financial Services and Vice Chair of the Subcommittee on Monetary Policy and Trade, released the following statement Thursday after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Financial CHOICE Act, H.R. 10.
From Representative Roger Williams
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June 6, 2017
Congressman Roger Williams (R – Austin), who represents Fort Hood, one of the largest United States military installations in the world, released the following statement Monday after the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary David Shulkin announced his decision to overhaul the VA electronic medical system to make it compatible with the Department of Defense (DoD).
From Representative Roger Williams
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June 7, 2017
Governor Greg Abbott today announced his plans to call the Texas Legislature back for a special session to address many legislative issues that were not passed during the 85th Regular Session.
From Representative Ron Simmons
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June 2, 2017
House Bill 25, filed by Representative Ron Simons (R-Carrollton) was signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott yesterday afternoon.
House Bill 25 eliminates the option to cast a single "one-punch" vote for all of the nominees of one party during a general election.
From Representative Ron Simmons
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June 20, 2017
On Sunday, State Representative Ron Simmons announced he will be seeking re-election to the Texas House for District 65 on WFAA Channel 8’s “Inside Texas Politics” program.
From Representative Ron Simmons
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May 28, 2017
Today I strongly voted not to concur on the conference committee report for Senate Bill 1, the state’s budget bill. The Conference Committee Report we voted on today was very different than the budget the House passed in April. The Conference Committee Report spent almost $1.4 billion less than what we originally appropriated.
From Representative Sergio Munoz, Jr.
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May 28, 2017
Today, Rep. Shawn Thierry (D-Houston) voted NO on SB 1, the final Texas budget which made cuts to services that were “indefensible," according to the Representative. Immediately after the House vote, Rep. Thierry issued the following remarks: “Almost every area of state spending was cut or underfunded, including one billion dollars in Medicaid payments, in favor of allocating 800 million dollars for border security patrol which is really a federal issue.
From Representative Shawn Thierry
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June 7, 2017
State Representative Tan Parker issued the following statement today following Governor Greg Abbott’s announcement that he is calling the Texas Legislature back to Austin for a special session beginning July 18, 2017:
“First and foremost, I want to thank Governor Abbott for his leadership on setting a special session agenda that addresses a robust number of conservative priorities for the people of Texas.
From Representative Tan Parker
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May 29, 2017
Yesterday, House Bill 1823 authored by Representative Terry Canales was sent to the Governor's Desk with overwhelming approval from the Texas Legislature. HB 1823 would allow accent marks, tildes, or other diacritical marks to appear on Texan’s driver licenses, birth certificates, marriage certificates and death certificates.
From Representative Terry Canales
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May 31, 2017
On the last day of the 85th Legislative session, State Representative Tom Oliverson, MD (R-Cypress) was awarded freshman of the year by his colleagues in the Texas House GOP Caucus. The 95 Republican House members voted on their choice for the best Republican freshman via a secret ballot.
From Representative Tom Oliverson
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May 28, 2017
Working alongside leaders from across the state, Representative Toni Rose played a critical role in crafting Senate Bill 1, the $216.8 billion dollar Texas budget. Texas constitutional requirements to pass a balanced budget, in combination with a budget shortfall, meant budget writers were tasked with the difficult responsibility of identifying cuts while preserving the core structure of the state's governmental system.
From Representative Toni Rose
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June 6, 2017
U.S. Representative Will Hurd has announced that he will serve as one of the four inaugural co-chairs of the new Congressional Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSI) Caucus, which serves to ensure that the 472 HSI’s in the United States are advocated for in Congress.
From Representative Will Hurd
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June 9, 2017
On Thursday after the House of Representatives passed the Financial CHOICE Act to replace Dodd-Frank, U.S. Representative Will Hurd released the following statement:
“Through duplicative regulations and excessive red tape, Dodd-Frank created an uneven playing field between large financial institutions and community banks and credit unions, who provide nearly half of all small loans to businesses and farmers.
From Representative Will Hurd
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June 2, 2017
After introducing bipartisan legislation last week that will jumpstart overdue maintenance projects in National Parks, today U.S. Representative Will Hurd, along with the National Parks Conservation Association and San Antonio Missions staff, hosted a behind-the-scenes tour of Mission San Jose in San Antonio to view the deferred maintenance projects that could be alleviated by Hurd’s bill.
From Representative Will Hurd
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June 9, 2017
Recently, U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Dr. David J. Shulkin announced his decision to implement the same Electronic Health Record (EHR) system for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) as the Department of Defense (DoD), in an effort to synchronize patients’ healthcare records once they leave the military.
From Representative Will Hurd
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June 5, 2017
This weekend, following the resignation of RPT Chair Tom Mechler on May 20, I was honored to be elected by the State Republican Executive Committee to serve as Chair to fill his unexpired term. I am deeply humbled and I look forward to visiting all corners of our great state to help elect more Republicans up and down the ballot!
From Republican Party of Texas
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June 20, 2017
State Representative Richard Peña Raymond announced today he is seeking re-election to the Texas House of Representatives, District 42, representing Laredo, Texas. Representative Raymond is currently serving his 12th term as a House Member.
From Richard Pena Raymond Campaign
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June 20, 2017
Texas State Senator Robert Nichols (R-Jacksonville) announced today his intention to file for re-election to the Texas Senate.
“Serving Senate District 3 is the greatest honor of my life,” said Nichols. “I humbly ask for voters’ support to continue working on behalf of East Texas.
From Robert Nichols Campaign
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June 15, 2017
"According to the World Health Organization statistics, Texas has the highest number of pregnancy-related deaths in a developed world. For Black women, the numbers are even worse.
From Senator Borris Miles
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May 29, 2017
The Senate passed the Property Tax Reform & Relief act 68 days ago, leaving more than sufficient time for the Texas House Leadership to pass the bill. Only recently, a very weak version of the Senate's comprehensive property tax relief measures were added to an ad valorem tax bill in the House.
From Senator Brandon Creighton
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May 28, 2017
The Texas Legislature gave final approval to the state budget on Saturday, two days before the end of the 85th Legislative Session. While revenue is tight due to a downturn in the oil and gas sector, and the voters’ decision to dedicate revenue to transportation fixes in 2016, Senator Uresti worked diligently over the past year to stress the importance of funding our Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) system.
From Senator Carlos Uresti
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May 31, 2017
Flanked by members of the Texas Senate and Texas House of Representatives, Governor Greg Abbott signed a suite of bills to improve the lives of individuals who work for and with the Child Protective Services (CPS) system.
From Senator Carlos Uresti
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June 1, 2017
State Senator Donna Campbell sent a formal letter to Governor Greg Abbott requesting annexation and property tax reform be included to any call for a special session.
From Senator Donna Campbell
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May 29, 2017
State Senator Donna Campbell released the following statement following the filibuster of Senate Bill 715 by Senator Menendez, with assists from Sens. Watson and Uresti.
“Today you watched three lawmakers choose the interests of big city central planners over the rights of the citizens.
From Senator Donna Campbell
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June 6, 2017
State Senator Donna Campbell released the following statement after Governor Abbott’s press conference calling for a special session this afternoon:
“Time ran out on a number of issues critical to Texas families and homeowners this past legislative session. Fortunately, we have a Governor who listens to the people and has boldly provided a remedy.
From Senator Donna Campbell
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June 12, 2017
Continuing her campaign to protect property owners in Texas, State Senator Donna Campbell sent an official letter to the Attorney General requesting an opinion on the constitutionality of tree ordinances such as the one currently being enforced in Austin.
From Senator Donna Campbell
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June 15, 2017
Today, Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed into law Senate Bill 589, the landmark legislation authored by Senator Eddie Lucio, Jr. (D-Brownsville), which protects vulnerable children with disabilities by requiring the licensing and regulation of behavior analysts in the state.
From Senator Eddie Lucio, Jr.
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June 9, 2017
Texas State Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, today praised the decision to place maternal mortality on the call for the upcoming special session.
"It is vitally important that we determine the root causes for the unacceptable rise in maternal morbidity and address those issues," Senator Nelson said.
From Senator Jane Nelson
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June 12, 2017
Texas State Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, issued the following statement about today’s signing of SB 1, the General Appropriations Act.
"All Texans will benefit from the budget signed into law today. This is a smart, responsible fiscal roadmap for the next two years.
From Senator Jane Nelson
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June 12, 2017
Texas State Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, has been named to Capitol Inside's "Best Legislators" list for her work during the 85th Regular Session of the Texas Legislature.
"I am honored to receive this recognition for the fifth time.
From Senator Jane Nelson
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May 29, 2017
The Texas Legislature adjourned sine die for the 85th Regular Session today with hundreds of bills signed into law or on their way to the governor's desk, including 16 authored by Texas State Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound.
From Senator Jane Nelson
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May 28, 2017
The Texas Legislature will conclude its 85th Regular Session on Monday with several pieces of legislation authored by Texas State Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, making their way to the governor's desk.
From Senator Jane Nelson
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May 28, 2017
The appropriations bill authored by Texas State Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, has been approved by the Texas Legislature establishing the state’s budget priorities for the next two years. The final budget was voted on by each chamber of the Legislature today.
From Senator Jane Nelson
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June 27, 2017
Today, Senator Joan Huffman (R - Houston) called on Governor Greg Abbott to add legislation requiring institutions of higher education in Texas to establish safe, appropriate, and reliable avenues for reporting instances of sexual assault and violence to the official proclamation for the upcoming First Called Session of the 85th Legislature.
From Senator Joan Huffman
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June 22, 2017
Today on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) spoke about the discussion draft of legislation introduced by Senate Republicans to replace the failing Affordable Care Act. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s remarks are below, and video of his remarks can be downloaded here.
From Senator John Cornyn
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June 26, 2017
U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimated the revised Senate Republican discussion draft of legislation to replace Obamacare will lower average premiums after 2020 and reduce the deficit by $321 billion:
From Senator John Cornyn
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June 21, 2017
U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) today introduced the Jobs for our Heroes Act of 2017, which streamlines and eases the burden on the process whereby active-duty military, reservists and veterans apply for their commercial driver’s license. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) is also an original cosponsor of the legislation.
From Senator John Cornyn
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June 22, 2017
U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after Senate Republicans released a discussion draft of legislation to replace the failed Affordable Care Act (ACA):
“After years of debate, hearings, and stories from folks harmed by Obamacare, today is a critical step towards delivering on our promise to provide the relief Texans so desperately need.
From Senator John Cornyn
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June 14, 2017
Today on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) addressed this morning’s tragic shooting at a practice for a charity baseball game and thanked the U.S. Capitol Police for their role in protecting the lives of those involved.
From Senator John Cornyn
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May 29, 2017
U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), who later today will host a send-off ceremony in San Antonio for Texans attending U.S. Military Service Academies next year, released the following open letter to Texans on Memorial Day:
From Senator John Cornyn
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June 1, 2017
U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today released the following statement after President Trump announced his intention to withdraw the United States from the Paris Climate Change Accord:
“I applaud the President’s decision today as he continues to turn the page on the previous Administration’s job-killing regulatory agenda.
From Senator John Cornyn
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June 6, 2017
Today at a press conference, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed his bipartisan legislation, the America Law Enforcement Heroes Act, which was signed into law by President Trump last week, as well as the Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act, which is expected to pass the Senate later today.
From Senator John Cornyn
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June 6, 2017
Today on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed Obamacare’s harmful impact as carriers in the state of Texas are pulling out of the exchanges, leaving some areas with only a few options from which to choose.
From Senator John Cornyn
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June 2, 2017
U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and U.S. Representative Will Hurd (TX-23) released the following statements after their bipartisan legislation, the American Law Enforcement Heroes Act, was signed into law by President Trump today. The legislation prioritizes U.S. Department of Justice Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grant applications of state and local law enforcement agencies who use that funding to hire military veterans.
From Senator John Cornyn
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June 8, 2017
U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today questioned former Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) James Comey in a Senate Select Committee on Intelligence hearing. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s remarks are below, and video of his remarks can be downloaded here.
From Senator John Cornyn
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June 8, 2017
U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) released the following statements after their bipartisan legislation, the PROTECT Our Children Act, passed out of the Senate Judiciary Committee today.
From Senator John Cornyn
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June 7, 2017
Senator José Rodríguez, Chairman of the Senate Democratic Caucus, released the following statement regarding today’s call by the Governor for a Special Session:
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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May 29, 2017
Today is Sine Die, the last day of the 85th Texas Legislature's Regular Session. State Sen. Jose Rodríguez passed 50 bills addressing education, health care, courts, criminal justice, local governance, and more.
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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June 1, 2017
The 85th Texas Legislature's Regular Session has ended. State Sen. José Rodríguez passed 50 bills, including those addressing education, health care, courts, criminal justice, local governance, and more.
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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May 31, 2017
The 85th Texas Legislature's Regular Session has ended. State Sen. José Rodríguez passed 50 bills, including those addressing education, health care, courts, criminal justice, local governance, and more. Sen. Rodríguez will send information regarding some of those over the course of this week.
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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June 15, 2017
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott vetoed bills by state Sen. José Rodríguez that would have given consumers vital loan information and set deadlines for well owners to secure their deteriorated water wells.
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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June 15, 2017
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott today vetoed state Sen. José Rodríguez's S.B. 570, which would have helped communities deal with the problem of scrap tires being illegally dumped, an issue that is particularly troubling for local health authorities trying to prevent the spread of the Zika virus.
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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May 28, 2017
The Texas Legislature today voted on the state budget in both the House and Senate. Sen. Rodríguez joined the House members of the El Paso delegation in voting for the budget.
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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May 30, 2017
The 85th Texas Legislature's Regular Session has ended. State Sen. José Rodríguez passed 49 bills, including those addressing issue areas such as education, health care, the civil and criminal justice system, local governance issues, and more. Sen. Rodríguez will send information regarding some of those over the course of this week.
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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June 27, 2017
By the end of the 85th Legislative Session, the so-called "sanctuary cities" bill had regrettably escalated into a "show me your papers" bill. Senate Bill 4 is an emotionally divisive issue and threatens to disrupt the lives of all our citizens, not only those who are undocumented but also U.S. citizens of Hispanic ethnicity.
From Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa
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May 29, 2017
Today, the Texas Legislature adjourned Sine Die for the 85th Regular Session. Sine Die is the last day of the 140 days every-odd numbered year the Texas Legislature meets.
Senator Hinojosa issued the following statement:
From Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa
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May 29, 2017
The Texas Legislature today adjourned the 2017 legislative session Sine Die today (Monday), with Senator Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, having passed 108 bills since January. That brings her total to 1,003 bills passed since 1987, more than any other legislator in the history of the State of Texas.
From Senator Judith Zaffirini
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June 1, 2017
Capitol Inside, an online news service, on Wednesday named Senator Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, among 10 Texas lawmakers designated "Best of the Legislature" for the 2017 legislative session.
From Senator Judith Zaffirini
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June 23, 2017
Senator Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, won six top honors at the National Federation of Press Women's (NFPW) Annual Communications Contest for her work published in 2016, the organization has announced.
From Senator Judith Zaffirini
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June 14, 2017
Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed into law House Bill 810 by Chair Tan Parker (R-Flower Mound) and sponsored in the Senate by Senator Paul Bettencourt (R-Houston). HB 810 allows patients with terminal illnesses or severe chronic diseases to access adult stem cell treatments that often are their last hope of significantly improving their physical well-being or even saving their own lives.
From Senator Paul Bettencourt
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June 19, 2017
Governor Greg Abbott has signed four taxpayer friendly appraisal reform bills to bring added transparency, accountability, and simplicity to the property tax process in Texas. Three bills authored by Senator Bettencourt, SB 731, SB 945, and SB 1286, as well as one bill authored by Representative Jim Murphy (R-Houston) and sponsored in the Senate by Senator Bettencourt will now become law.
From Senator Paul Bettencourt
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May 28, 2017
The Texas Senate today concurred with the Texas House on House Bill 810 by Chair Tan Parker (R-Flower Mound) and sponsored by Senator Paul Bettencourt (R-Houston). HB 810 allows patients with terminal illnesses or severe chronic diseases to access adult stem cell treatments that often are their last hope of significantly improving their physical well-being or even saving their own lives.
From Senator Paul Bettencourt
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May 28, 2017
The Texas House of Representatives today failed to appoint conference conferees for Senate Bill 669 by Senator Jane Nelson (R-Flower Mound), which effectively killed property tax relief for the 85th Regular Session. SB 669 in conference could have included property tax relief as set out by Senate Bill 2 by Senator Paul Bettencourt (R-Houston).
From Senator Paul Bettencourt
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June 6, 2017
Governor Greg Abbott announced that he was calling a special session of the Texas Legislature to address issues that were not resolved during the 85th Legislative Session. Among the items included in Governor Abbott’s call are property tax reform and relief for Texans. The special session is scheduled to begin on July 18, 2017 and will last for thirty days.
From Senator Paul Bettencourt
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May 28, 2017
Today the Texas Senate and House approved SB 1, the general appropriations bill.
Quote attributable to Senator Sylvia Garcia of Houston:
"This budget is more of the same and fails Texas families. There's no new money for pre-k, there's continued spending on more border militarization, and it continues to shortchange education and healthcare.
From Senator Sylvia Garcia
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June 1, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today released the following statement regarding President Trump’s announcement that he will withdraw from the Paris Agreement:
"I commend President Trump for putting American jobs first.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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June 5, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today attended the White House announcement of the new Air Traffic Control (ATC) system reform and modernization initiative.
“I am grateful this administration has been eager and willing to reduce the burden of federal regulations and mismanaged bureaucracy on a variety of America’s core industries,” Sen. Cruz said.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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May 29, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today attended Memorial Day events in San Antonio and Kerrville. In San Antonio, Sen. Cruz addressed attendees of the Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery Memorial Day Program. In Kerrville, Sen, Cruz delivered the keynote remarks in a ceremony at the Kerr County War Memorial.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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June 8, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today issued the following statement praising Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ announcement to end the improper practice, implemented at the Department of Justice under the Obama Administration that sometimes required defendants who choose to settle lawsuits to contribute funds to preferred third-party groups that were neither victims nor parties involved in the case:
From Senator Ted Cruz
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June 20, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) issued the following statement regarding the passing of Otto Warmbier, an Ohio native and student at the University of Virginia who was imprisoned in North Korea for more than a year before he was returned to his family earlier this month:
From Senator Ted Cruz
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June 20, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and chairman of the Subcommittee on The Constitution, participated in a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing today titled “Free Speech 101: The Assault on the First Amendment on College Campuses.”
From Senator Ted Cruz
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June 9, 2017
Today, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) participated in a roundtable discussion with community leaders and executive board members of the Borderplex Alliance in El Paso. There, he discussed the importance of trade to the Texas economy, his efforts in rolling back burdensome federal regulations, and expanding economic opportunity for hardworking Texans.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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June 26, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today praised the United States Supreme Court’s decision in Trinity Lutheran Church of Columbia vs. Comer.
“The Court’s decision today stops blatant religious discrimination by a state and is a landmark victory for religious freedom and free exercise in our country,” Sen. Cruz said.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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June 22, 2017
Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), and Rand Paul (R-Ky.) issued the following statement Thursday responding to the release of the Better Care Reconciliation Act of 2017:
“Currently, for a variety of reasons, we are not ready to vote for this bill, but we are open to negotiation and obtaining more information before it is brought to the floor.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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June 22, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) released the following statement regarding the Better Care Reconciliation Act, introduced today by the U.S. Senate:
“Four months ago, I joined with a group of five other senators with very different perspectives on health care policy – representative of the full spectrum of the Republican Party – for the sole purpose of working together to fulfill our commitment to voters to reduce premiums and provide better, more affordable healthcare.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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June 26, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today praised the Supreme Court’s unanimous decision to reinstate parts of President Trump’s executive order on refugees and vetting in Trump v. Hawaii. In a per curiam opinion, the Court agreed to hear the dispute this fall, and it overruled lower court injunctions that baselessly claimed to apply to foreign persons with no connection to the United States.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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June 27, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) announced his cosponsorship of the Protecting the Second Amendment Act, which was introduced by Sen. Luther Strange (R-Ala.). The bill would amend the Gun Control Act to nullify generalized, routine, or ongoing reporting requirements on lawful gun owners based on geographic location or sales records of multiple long guns, and prohibit future executive action against them.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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May 29, 2017
State Senator Van Taylor, the Vice Chairman of the Sunset Commission, today responded to the last minute ad hoc attempt by the Texas House to rescue important Sunset bills they failed to pass earlier in the legislative session:
“Since the opening gavel the Senate has been hard at work passing legislation important to Texans, including all ten of our Sunset bills.
From Senator Van Taylor
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June 8, 2017
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Scott Pruitt announced a plan Tuesday to delay implementing the 2015 ozone standard one year, from 2017 to 2018. EPA’s decision will impact several million people, especially children, living in San Antonio and El Paso, since they are on track to be designated by EPA in ozone nonattainment due to unhealthy air quality.
From Sierra Club Lone Star Chapter
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May 30, 2017
At the conclusion of the regular session of the 85th Texas Legislature, the Sierra Club’s Lone Star Chapter water lobby team issued the following remarks on the outcome of water legislation.
From Sierra Club Lone Star Chapter
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June 14, 2017
On Monday, Texas Governor Greg Abbott cut funds from important low-income and clean air planning programs, as well as brackish groundwater research, using his line item veto power. Abbott also signed SB 1731 into law, which keeps the Texas Emissions Reduction Program (TERP) alive but at much lower funding levels.
From Sierra Club Lone Star Chapter
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June 6, 2017
Texas House Speaker Joe Straus released the following statement Tuesday after Governor Greg Abbott announced that he is calling a special legislative session:
"I hope that Members will take advantage of the next six weeks to spend with their families after a long 140-day legislative session.
From Speaker Joe Straus
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May 29, 2017
The Texas House adjourned sine die on Monday, wrapping up a 140-day legislative session in which the
body took significant action on a number of challenges facing the state.
“The results of this session are going to make a real difference in Texans’ lives,” said House Speaker Joe Straus, R- San Antonio.
From Speaker Joe Straus
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May 28, 2017
The Texas House gave final and overwhelming approval Saturday to a budget proposal that keeps state spending flat while making significant investments in child protection and mental health care.
The budget, Senate Bill 1, appropriates about $107 billion in General Revenue and almost $1 billion from the state’s Economic Stabilization Fund. Including federal funds and other dollars, the budget totals $217 billion.
From Speaker Joe Straus
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May 31, 2017
Texas House Speaker Joe Straus of San Antonio applauded Wednesday the signing of bills that aim to improve
Child Protective Services and the state’s foster care system.
Leading up to this year’s legislative session, high-profile and tragic incidents put a spotlight on problems at CPS.
From Speaker Joe Straus
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June 14, 2017
While bills to raise the minimum legal sale age of tobacco to 21 in Texas stalled during the 85th legislative session, the Texas 21 Coalition says the groundwork laid this year will ensure future success of the legislation designed to protect Texas youth from the deadly impact of tobacco.
From Texas 21 Coalition
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May 29, 2017
Texas AFL-CIO President John Patrick issued the following statement on today's day of action to fight back against SB 4 at the Capitol:
"The Texas AFL-CIO supports today's day of action because we are determined to fight for all working people - no matter their race, nationality, or immigration status.
From Texas AFL-CIO
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June 6, 2017
The following statement on Gov. Abbott’s decision to include bathroom legislation in his Special Session call should be attributed to Chris Wallace, President of Texas Association of Business, on behalf of the Keep Texas Open for Business Coalition:
From Texas Association of Business
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June 14, 2017
Members of the Texas Cable Association (TCA) Board of Directors have elected the 2017-2018 Executive Committee and Board of Directors for one-year terms. TCA has been the primary trade organization for cable operators in Texas since 1960.
From Texas Cable Association
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June 7, 2017
Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s issues to be addressed in the one-month special session include many of the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops’ priorities, especially pro-life legislation and parental choice for special needs students.
From Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops
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June 26, 2017
On Friday, June 23rd, the Texas State Board of Education (SBOE) endorsed the decision by Commissioner of Education Mike Morath to approve five Generation 22 open-enrollment public charter schools.
From Texas Charter Schools Association
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June 21, 2017
Today, the Texas Clean Energy Coalition (TCEC) sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Energy Rick Perry suggesting that market forces can
drive the nation’s transition to an affordable and reliable electric grid that relies on U.S.-produced clean energy.
From Texas Clean Energy Coalition
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June 7, 2017
The Texas Coalition for Affordable Insurance Solutions (TCAIS) – representing the major auto insurance companies doing business in Texas – thanked Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Tuesday for signing House Bill 62 – a statewide ban on texting while driving – into law, effective Sept. 1, 2017.
From Texas Coalition for Affordable Insurance Solutions
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June 2, 2017
Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar today announced his certification of Senate Bill 1, the general appropriations bill that was approved by both houses during the recently gaveled regular session of the 85th Texas Legislature. The bill now heads to the desk of Gov. Greg Abbott.
From Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
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June 14, 2017
Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar announced today the selection of Lone Star Tangible Assets (LSTA) as the vendor that will partner with the Comptroller’s office to build and operate the Texas Bullion Depository — the nation’s first state-administered gold bullion depository.
From Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
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June 2, 2017
Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar said today that state sales tax revenue totaled $2.5 billion in May, 4 percent more than in May 2016.
“State sales tax collections in May indicate a Texas economy expanding at a moderate pace,” Hegar said. “Growth in sales tax revenue occurred across most major industry sectors, including oil- and gas-related sectors.
From Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
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June 12, 2017
Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar announced today that Tom Smelker, director of Treasury Operations, has been named administrator of the future Texas Bullion Depository.
Smelker will oversee the depository and work closely with the vendor ultimately selected to build and operate the depository.
From Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
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June 14, 2017
Commissioner of Education Mike Morath has announced that Texas parents will now have access to greater individualized student information with the launch of the new State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR®) Report Card.
From Texas Education Agency
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June 23, 2017
Five Generation Twenty-Two charter school applicants today successfully completed the final step of the state’s application process allowing them to begin operation in Texas for the 2018-2019 school year once any contingencies are met.
From Texas Education Agency
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June 23, 2017
Texas Freedom Network President Kathy Miller is warning that California’s decision this week to bar nonessential state travel to Texas highlights the growing risks from legislative efforts to pass laws discriminating against LGBT people.
From Texas Freedom Network
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June 15, 2017
Texas Freedom Network President Kathy Miller has the following statement on Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signing HB3859 today. This new law allows child welfare services providers that contract with the state to use religion as justification to discriminate against LGBT Texans and others, including people of minority faiths.
From Texas Freedom Network
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June 6, 2017
Texas Freedom Network President Kathy Miller has the following statement on Gov. Greg Abbott’s announcement calling back the Texas Legislature for a special session beginning July 18 to address various issues, including divisive, culture war topics like public restroom regulations, abortion and private school vouchers:
From Texas Freedom Network
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May 29, 2017
Texas Freedom Network President Kathy Miller has the follow statement on the end of the Texas legislative session today:
“When it comes to civil liberties and basic human rights, the Legislature gave Texas a big black eye this session.
From Texas Freedom Network
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May 29, 2017
Texas Freedom Network President Kathy Miller is warning that today’s passage of SB801 by the House and Senate threatens to return Texas to the worst years of textbook censorship by the State Board of Education.
From Texas Freedom Network
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May 31, 2017
During the 2017 Texas Legislative session, the Texas Home School Coalition (THSC) realized several successes advocating for needed reforms to Child Protective Services (CPS).
From Texas Home School Coalition Association
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May 31, 2017
Despite overwhelming support from home schoolers, the Texas legislature, and the Chair of Public Education in the House, the Tim Tebow Bill died in the House Public Education Committee during the 2017 Texas Legislative session.
From Texas Home School Coalition Association
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June 26, 2017
The Texas Home School Coalition (THSC) realized victory on behalf of Texas parents on June 15, 2017, when Gov. Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 999 into law.
Introduced by Sen. Royce West during the 2017 Texas Legislative session, SB 999 enacts the following changes:
From Texas Home School Coalition Association
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June 12, 2017
Last night, Gov. Greg Abbott signed legislation that would increase the punishment for violent animal cruelty offenses and address loopholes that have allowed animal abusers to avoid prosecution, said the Texas Humane Legislation Network.
From Texas Humane Legislation Network
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June 7, 2017
"The Governor’s call today for a special session strikes squarely at the heart of local control in Texas. Several items on the Governor’s list include issues that will further chip away at Texas cities’ right to govern in ways that meet the needs of their communities, such as preventing cities from regulating what property owners can do with trees on private land.
From Texas League of Conservation Voters
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June 6, 2017
“The list of proposed topics for a special session represents an all-out assault on the ability of Texas voters to decide what’s best for their communities and their neighborhoods.
“From proposed revenue caps, to spending caps, to tree ordinances, to texting while driving and more, no one has ever proposed such sweeping restrictions on local voters having a voice in shaping the character of their communities.
From Texas Municipal League
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June 1, 2017
In his capacity as the state's Border Commerce Coordinator, Texas Secretary of State Rolando Pablos today convened his first meeting as Chair of the Border Trade Advisory Committee (BTAC).
From Texas Secretary of State
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June 12, 2017
The Texas State Library and Archives Commission (TSLAC) will receive a special legislative appropriation of one million dollars to bring high-speed internet connections to Texas communities via public libraries.
From Texas State Library and Archives Commission
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June 6, 2017
The Texas Taxpayers and Research Association (TTARA) today issued the following statement after Gov. Greg Abbott announced he will include the property tax issue in a call for a special session of the Texas Legislature.
The following statement can be attributed to Dale Craymer, president of the Texas Taxpayers and Research Association (TTARA):
From Texas Taxpayers and Research Association
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June 7, 2017
Today brought about good news on several fronts, including two issues central to the work being done by Texas Values – protecting privacy in bathrooms, showers, and intimate spaces and expanding protections for the life and dignity of the unborn.
From Texas Values
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May 29, 2017
While the 85th Legislature regular session made moves on religious liberty and pro-life issues (mainly via amendments), privacy in school restrooms, showers, and locker rooms remains a question mark.
From Texas Values
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June 6, 2017
The 85th Texas Legislature regular session ended last week and the problem of privacy in school restrooms, showers, and locker rooms was not resolved as House leadership killed legislation that passed the Senate as well as another measure that had a majority of support of House members.
From Texas Values
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June 14, 2017
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signed a bill Monday that includes language giving County Clerks the freedom to leave their names off marriage licenses and marriage applications.
From Texas Values
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June 22, 2017
Today the Fifth Circuit unanimously rejected a constitutional challenge to Mississippi’s religious-freedom law, known as HB 1523, which shields churches, religious organizations, state employees, and small businesses from government penalties if they refuse to participate in same-sex marriage ceremonies and other activities that violate their religious or moral beliefs.
From Texas Values
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June 15, 2017
Legislation designed to allow faith-based foster homes and adoption agencies to keep operating according to their faith-based principles (HB 3859) was signed by Gov. Greg Abbott this afternoon.
From Texas Values
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June 15, 2017
The Texas Women’s Healthcare Coalition (TWHC) is disappointed in Governor Abbott’s decision to veto SB 790 by Senator Borris Miles, the companion bill to HB 279 by Representative Donna Howard. This bill would have extended the Women’s Health Advisory Committee (WHAC) until September 2019.
From Texas Women's Healthcare Coalition
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June 15, 2017
Today, prominent Texas and Mexico business leaders announced the formation of an organization designed to develop, promote, and grow trade opportunities between Texas and Mexico.
From Texas-Mexico Trade Coalition
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June 8, 2017
The following statement can be attributed to TexPIRG Director Bay Scoggin.
“Today, the U.S. House, on a nearly party-line vote, approved HR10, the Financial Choice Act, which is the Wrong Choice for all of us who aren’t Wall Street banks or predatory lenders and would gut the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, or CFPB.
From TexPIRG
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June 19, 2017
Statement from Madeline McClure, founding CEO of TexProtects:
“At the beginning of the 85th Legislative Session, Governor Abbott declared protecting Texas children from abuse among his top priorities. We are therefore perplexed and disappointed in his veto of HB 1342, the only bill requiring children to receive self-protection training against predators.
From TexProtects
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May 30, 2017
We applaud the Texas Legislature, with a special recognition of Senators Kirk Watson and Joan Huffman and Representatives Jeff Leach, Carol Alvarado, J.M. Lozano and John Zerwas for authoring legislation during the 85th Session that addressed the very important issue of campus sexual misconduct.
From The University of Texas System
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May 31, 2017
In a case before the State Office of Administrative Hearings where Clean Harbors San Leon has applied for a draft permit to dump effluent containing up to 17 toxic chemicals - including arsenic and mercury – into Dickinson Bayou, they continuously argue against doing whole effluent toxicity (“WET”) testing
From The Wilbanks Group
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June 22, 2017
State Rep. Tony Dale (R-Cedar Park) announced today that he seeking reelection to House District 136 representing southwestern Williamson County in the Texas House of Representatives. The district consists of the communities of Cedar Park, Leander, Brushy Creek, and parts of Austin and Round Rock.
From Tony Dale Campaign
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June 22, 2017
Today, State Rep. Travis Clardy announced his plans to seek re-election to represent House District 11 in the Texas House of Representatives.
“It has been a distinct honor and privilege to serve the people of Cherokee, Nacogdoches, and Rusk counties," Clardy said.
From Travis Clardy Campaign
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 Copyright June 28, 2017, Harvey Kronberg, www.quorumreport.com, All rights are reserved
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