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January 20, 2021
Today, President Joe Biden and Vice-President Kamala Harris were sworn in as the 46th President and Vice-President, respectively. On his first day in office, President Biden signed 17 executive orders ranging from addressing pandemic relief to protecting the immigrant community.
From Mexican American Legislative Caucus
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January 20, 2021
The Texas AFL-CIO today celebrated the inauguration of Joe Biden as President and Kamala Harris as Vice President, calling upon all of us to work together to build a better nation.
Texas AFL-CIO President Rick Levy and Secretary-Treasurer Montserrat Garibay issued this statement:
From Texas AFL-CIO
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January 20, 2021
“The biggest losers from this decision are the energy workers who stood to benefit from the pipeline,” said Sen. Cornyn. “There’s no doubt our energy industry has already suffered during the pandemic, and President Biden’s answer is to kick the industry further down the well.
From Senator John Cornyn
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January 20, 2021
“As Joe Biden is sworn in as the 46th President of the United States, our nation turns the page towards a brighter, more optimistic future for all Americans. I want to offer my sincere and heartfelt congratulations to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.
From Senator Cesar J. Blanco
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January 20, 2021
Texas Democratic Party Chair Gilberto Hinojosa issued the following statement:
“Texas Democrats are ecstatic Joe Biden and Kamala Harris have been inaugurated as the President and Vice President of the United States.
From Texas Democratic Party
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January 20, 2021
Progress Texas releases the following statement on the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris.
“After four long years of chaos and corruption from the Trump administration, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris bring with them much needed hope for Texas and our nation’s future,” said Ed Espinoza, executive director at Progress Texas.
From Progress Texas
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January 19, 2021
Texas Nurse Practitioners (TNP) is marking January as Human Trafficking Prevention Month by emphasizing the role nurse practitioners play in helping people escape the cycle of confinement and exploitation.
“As front-line health care providers, NPs are specially positioned to identify victims of human trafficking, but need to know the signs to look for,” said Christy Blanco, TNP President.
From Texas Nurse Practitioners
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January 19, 2021
—This morning, on what is designated as Confederate Heroes Day in Texas,
Representative Rafael Anchía filed House Bill 1186 which would remove confederate monuments,
memorials, and statues from the Capitol grounds as well as renaming the John H. Reagan State Office
Building.
From Representative Rafael Anchia
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January 19, 2021
Yesterday, Texans celebrated Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a remembrance of the country’s most famous activist for racial equality and civil rights. Tomorrow, Senator Kamala Harris will be inaugurated as the country’s first Black female vice-president. But today, the state of Texas is celebrating Confederate Heroes Day, an official state holiday meant to honor Confederate traitors.
From Progress Texas
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January 19, 2021
Attorney General Ken Paxton today announced that the Texas Office of the Attorney General recovered $1.2 billion in civil litigation between fiscal year 2015 and fiscal year 2020, an average of over $200 million for each year.
From Office of the Attorney General
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January 19, 2021
Former Texas Governor and U.S. Secretary of Energy Rick Perry announced his endorsement of Jacksboro conservative David Spiller, who is seeking to represent House District 68 in the Texas House of Representatives. Spiller is a family attorney who will work to defend rural conservative values against urban interests in the Texas House.
From David Spiller Campaign
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January 19, 2021
The Office of Court Administration (OCA) announced today that it has signed a new contract with Tyler Technologies to continue eFileTexas through 2027. The contract is valued at $98 million over the next five years and features major upgrades to the current system to benefit clerks, attorneys, litigants, and staff.
From Texas Office of Court Administration
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January 19, 2021
The Texas House Republican Caucus Executive Committee on Tuesday
announced the hiring of a Communications Director to lead a new, exciting effort to help
members connect with constituents through digital outreach.
Jordan Overturf will officially begin his role on January 21, 2021.
From Texas House Republican Caucus
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January 19, 2021
Noting that the Department of Public Safety (DPS) was forced to close down the Texas Capitol in response to planned armed protests, Representative Vikki Goodwin (D-Travis County) announced today that she had filed a bill that would ban the public display of firearms at protests and similar events.
From Representative Vikki Goodwin
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January 19, 2021
Today, in an emergency meeting of the Texas Democratic Party’s State Democratic Executive Committee (SDEC), the committee passed two resolutions calling for the resignations of 22 Texas Republicans who echoed Trump’s dangerous rhetoric and aided and abetted his attempts to overthrow the will of the people while inciting the violence we saw at the Capitol that killed a police officer injured thousands, and terrorized the country.
From Texas Democratic Party
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January 19, 2021
State Representative Brooks Landgraf (R-Odessa) filed House Bill 1077 to reduce the impact of “Robin Hood” recapture payments on mineral wealthy school districts.
“The events of the last year demonstrate how necessary HB 1077 is for school districts in the oilpatch,” Landgraf said.
From Representative Brooks Landgraf
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January 19, 2021
Today Senator Roland Gutierrez (D-Bexar) announced his appointment by Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick to four Senate committees for the recently begun 87th Legislature, including two prestigious committees.
From Senator Roland Gutierrez
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January 19, 2021
Texas State Senator Nathan Johnson (D-Dallas) today announced his committee assignments for the 87th Texas Legislature. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick appointed Johnson to serve as the Vice-Chair of the Senate Committee on Administration while also naming him to serve on Business and Commerce, Jurisprudence, Special Committee on Redistricting, and Water, Agriculture and Rural Affairs.
From Senator Nathan Johnson
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January 19, 2021
Today, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick announced Senate committee assignments for the 87th Legislative Session. Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa will serve as Vice Chair of the Senate Redistricting Committee and as Vice Chair of the Senate Jurisprudence Committee.
From Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa
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January 15, 2021
"We appreciate the opportunity to work for all of our constituents, and on behalf of all Texans. We are delighted to continue to serve on the Senate Committees on Administration, Business and Commerce, the revamped Intergovernmental Relations Committee now Local Government, and Redistricting.
From Senator Jose Menendez
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January 15, 2021
Today, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick announced the senate committee assignments for the 87th Legislature. Senator César J. Blanco (El Paso) was appointed to four influential committees — The Senate Committees on Health & Human Services, Higher Education, Transportation, and Veteran Affairs & Border Security.
From Senator Cesar J. Blanco
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January 15, 2021
Texas State Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, today was re-appointed by Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick for her fourth consecutive session as chair of the Senate Finance Committee. She was also reappointed to the State Affairs Committee and the Senate Select Committee on Ports.
From Senator Jane Nelson
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January 15, 2021
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued the following statement today upon announcing his Texas Senate committee appointments for the 87th Legislative Session. Lt. Gov. Patrick also appointed the Select Committee on Ports and the Special Committee on Redistricting:
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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January 15, 2021
Today the campaign for Speaker Dade Phelan (R-Beaumont) announced that it raised $4.5 million during the most recent reporting period, including nearly $4.4 million in monetary contributions and $100,000 in in-kind contributions. Speaker Phelan maintained $4.8 million cash on hand at the end of the year.
From Dade Phelan Campaign
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January 15, 2021
After nearly 20 years in government affairs and law, Chance Sampson is launching Sampson Public Affairs, LLC, a Texas lobby firm that will help clients achieve their legislative and regulatory objectives.
From Sampson Public Affairs
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January 15, 2021
On Thursday, January 14th, Texas State Representative Penny Morales Shaw (HD 148) sent a letter, co-signed by 34 of her legislative colleagues, to Governor Abbott and DSHS Commissioner Dr. John Hellerstedt calling for the state’s COVID-19 Expert Vaccine Allocation Panel to include teachers and school support staff in the next group eligible to receive the coronavirus vaccine.
From Representative Penny Morales Shaw
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January 15, 2021
Representative Michelle Beckley will be quarantining for the next ten days in accordance with CDC guidance after
learning that a colleague she was in close proximity to on the floor of the Texas House of Representatives on
Wednesday and Thursday tested positive for COVID-19.
From Representative Michelle Beckley
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January 15, 2021
State Representative Jacey Jetton (R-Sugar Land) announces his first bill designed to secure Texas Elections. This bill will be the first in a series of bills designed to increase election integrity in Texas.
“The 2020 elections exposed holes in our current election laws,” said Rep. Jacey Jetton.
From Representative Jacey Jetton
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January 15, 2021
“The Texas Democratic Party congratulates Jamie Harrison on being named as the next DNC chair. Jamie is somebody that I’ve gotten to know very well through his time as the South Carolina Democratic Party Chair.
From Texas Democratic Party
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January 14, 2021
Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick will report raising $4,982,662 in the second half of 2020, bringing his campaign war chest to $19,445,941. Patrick has raised more in campaign funds than any previous Lt. Governor in Texas history.
From Dan Patrick Campaign
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January 14, 2021
While recognizing the immense challenges facing the Legislature
this spring, the Texas Civil Justice League (TCJL) will put forward a legislative agenda to address
serious policy concerns in the civil justice and judicial arenas.
From Texas Civil Justice League
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January 14, 2021
Today, the Texas House of Representatives voted to adopt the House Rules for
the 87th Legislative Session. Each of these policies govern the procedures and operations of the
House Chamber.
In announcing the adoption of the procedural rules, Caucus Chairman Jim Murphy stated, “In
the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, members of the Texas House had to consider new
protocols for us to conduct legislative business on behalf of the citizens who elected us to serve
them
From Texas House Republican Caucus
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January 14, 2021
State Representative Jacey Jetton (R-Sugar Land) announces his team for the 87th Legislative Session. Jetton is a Freshman in the Texas House of Representatives, representing a key district in Fort Bend County.
“I am honored the people of House District 26 placed their trust in me to represent them in Austin,” said Rep. Jacey Jetton.
From Representative Jacey Jetton
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January 14, 2021
“After losing a seat in the Texas Senate, Dan Patrick and Texas Republicans again changed the rules of government to benefit themselves. The Texas Senate was once a deliberative body with a Texas tradition of bipartisanship and the requirement for a ? majority to bring a bill to the floor for debate.
From Texas Democratic Party
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January 14, 2021
Texans for Healthcare Access – a diverse coalition of organizations representing consumers, businesses, and healthcare stakeholders – are calling on lawmakers to remove outdated, unnecessary, and anti-competitive regulations on Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN), which will provide Texas patients more health care access and options.
From Texans for Healthcare Access
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January 14, 2021
On January 13th, 2021 the Dallas City Council unanimously voted in approval of the renaming of a part of Lamar Street, to Botham Jean Boulevard. State Representative Carl O. Sherman, Sr. (D-109), along with other Texas Legislators, family members of Botham Jean and concerned citizens voiced their staunch support for the street name change, during the meeting.
From Representative Carl Sherman
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January 13, 2021
“Today, justice was served when Donald Trump, by a bipartisan vote, became the only President in U.S. history to be impeached twice. The President of the United States incited and inspired a domestic terrorist attack against the legislative body of our country.
From Texas Democratic Party
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January 13, 2021
Progress Texas releases the following statement on the historic, bipartisan vote from the House of Representatives to impeach Donald J. Trump a second time for “inciting violence against the Government of the United States.”
“The president’s actions inciting the attack on our nation’s Capitol will be in history books, and so should the consequences of his actions,” said Ed Espinoza, executive director at Progress Texas.
From Progress Texas
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January 13, 2021
After 8 years of protracted litigation and findings of both intentional, racial discrimination and constitutional violations, the State of Texas is setting themselves up for a repeat of what happened in the last decade. The Senate's draft rules show few changes in the procedures and timelines that led to the legal problems that we saw in 2011 and 2013.
From Common Cause
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January 13, 2021
As the Texas Legislature convenes in Austin this week, Texas psychologists shared their legislative priorities, emphasizing the need for access to mental health care during the pandemic.
Legislative priorities for the Texas Psychological Association include:
• Protecting psychologists from civil liability for reporting of patients who may be a danger to themselves or others;
From Texas Psychological Association
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January 13, 2021
Today, Boot Texas Republicans PAC launches a new campaign, Defund Cruz, calling on Ted Cruz donors to ask for a refund of their political contribution following the January 6th violent riot at the Capitol.
Texas Senator, Ted Cruz, faces national backlash following his three month attempt to overturn the 2020 Presidential election resulting in violence at the Capitol.
From Boot Texas Republicans PAC
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January 13, 2021
The Lone Star Chapter of the Sierra Club, Public Citizen, Texas Campaign for the Environment, and JOLT, are calling on Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton to resign immediately for his role in spearheading a lawsuit that sought to throw out duly certified votes in states other than Texas, and his specific role in traveling to Washington, DC to spur on a crowd of white supremacist Trump supporters who later stormed the U.S. Capitol in a deadly attack on our country.
From Sierra Club Lone Star Chapter
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January 13, 2021
Senator Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, the second highest-ranking
senator and highest-ranking woman senator, today (Tuesday) was sworn in for a
new term representing Senate District 21.
This session will be unlike any before it. Because of COVID-19 restrictions, the
typically lengthy and crowded opening-day ceremony was abbreviated and only
lightly attended by senators' family members.
From Senator Judith Zaffirini
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January 13, 2021
The Texas Senate elected Senator Brian Birdwell (R-Granbury) to serve as president pro tempore
during the 87th Legislature. Birdwell had the unique privilege of being sworn in by his very own
brother, Justice Wade Birdwell of Arlington.
From Senator Brian Birdwell
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January 12, 2021
—Today, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) held a board meeting and adopted
22 findings related to a natural gas explosion in Dallas that took the life of 12-year-old Linda
"Michellita" Rogers on February 23, 2018. In addition, the NTSB's five-member board voted on the
investigation's findings, probable cause, and provided safety recommendations to the Railroad
Commission of Texas, the Dallas Fire Rescue Department and Atmos Energy, among others.
From Representative Rafael Anchia
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January 12, 2021
"I want to congratulate Speaker Dade Phelan on his election as Speaker of the Texas House of Representatives. Dade is an accomplished leader who will be ready on day one to take on the tough challenges we are facing this legislative session.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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January 12, 2021
Today, the opening day of the 87th Texas Legislature, Navy veteran and now-former State Representative César J. Blanco (El Paso) took his Oath of Office for the Texas Senate. It is his first term representing District 29 in the Texas Senate after serving three terms in the Texas House of Representatives.
From Senator Cesar J. Blanco
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January 12, 2021
On Tuesday, January 12, Jake Ellzey was sworn in as the Texas State
Representative of House District 10 for the 87
th Texas Legislature.
"I'm humbled and blessed to be able to serve the people of our community. I will serve with
honor, dignity and quiet professionalism," stated Rep. Ellzey.
From Representative Jake Ellzey
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January 12, 2021
State Representative Brooks Landgraf (R-Odessa) took the oath of office on Tuesday at the Texas Capitol to once again serve the Permian Basin as a member of the Texas House of Representatives.
Landgraf and the other members of the Texas legislature convened at the Texas Capitol building for the 87th Texas Legislative Session on January 12th, 2021.
From Representative Brooks Landgraf
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January 12, 2021
Blakemore Public Affairs has updated the Texas Elected Officials Flash Card App to help users build knowledge of state elected officials and improve memory with each photo. The free app is being released to display the officials who have been sworn in on opening day of the 87th Legislative Session in January as well as the newly elected Speaker of the House of Representatives.
From Blakemore Public Affairs
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January 12, 2021
Today, Zack Malitz, Boot Texas Republican PAC Treasurer, released a statement in regards to Trump’s political retreat to Texas’ border wall site six days after the violent insurgency in Washington DC.
From Boot Texas Republicans PAC
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January 12, 2021
Progress Texas releases the following statement on the opening of the 87th Texas Legislature.
“At its best, the Texas Legislature can be a force for good and has the power to improve the lives of Texans across our state,” said Diana Gómez, advocacy manager at Progress Texas.
From Progress Texas
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January 12, 2021
Senator Sarah Eckhardt plans to make the following policy areas top priorities for the 87th Legislature:
1. Addressing the economic, health, and housing impacts of COVID-19;
2. Passing comprehensive criminal justice reforms;
3. Making Texas’ elections more democratic and more accessible;
4. Legalizing marijuana;
From Senator Sarah Eckhardt
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January 12, 2021
Today, the 83 members of the Texas House Republican Caucus were sworn
into the Texas House of Representatives. Both in-person and remotely, family members,
friends, and constituents gathered to watch as Secretary of State Ruth R. Hughs administered
the oath of office from the House Floor.
From Texas House Republican Caucus
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January 12, 2021
State Rep. Eddie Rodriguez represents Travis County’s HD-51 in the Texas House of Representatives. Rep. Rodriguez currently serves as Policy Chair of the Mexican American Legislative Caucus, the oldest and largest Latino legislative caucus in the nation. He also serves as Chair of the Texas House Farm-to-Table Caucus.
From Representative Eddie Rodriguez
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January 12, 2021
—Today, Texas State Representative Oscar Longoria (D-La Joya) was sworn in for his fifth
term in the Texas House of Representatives. First elected in 2012, Representative Longoria represents
House District 35, which encompasses parts of Hidalgo and Cameron Counties.
From Representative Oscar Longoria
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January 12, 2021
Today marks the commencement of the 87th Legislative Session at the Texas State Capitol. This session will undoubtedly look and operate differently from years past due to the ongoing COVID-19 Pandemic.
From Representative Ray Lopez
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January 12, 2021
Texas abortion funds released new polling today that shows the majority of Texas voters support lifting the ban on Medicaid coverage of abortion.
Findings from the poll show include:
• 63% of Texas voters support Medicaid coverage of pregnancy-related health care, including abortion.
From Lilith Fund
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January 12, 2021
The Texas Association of Manufacturers today released its “TAM Top Ten,” which details the Association’s policy priorities for the 87th Legislature in 2021.
“Pandemic economic recovery, competitiveness and job growth are at the core of our priorities for the 87th Legislature,” said Tony Bennett, president of the Texas Association of Manufacturers.
From Texas Association of Manufacturers
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January 12, 2021
Texas Rising, the Texas Freedom Network’s youth organizing program, today marked the opening of the 87th session of the Texas Legislature by calling on state lawmakers to tackle urgent problems, like the ongoing pandemic, and work on policies that will improve the futures of a rising generation of young Texans.
From Texas Freedom Network
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January 12, 2021
Today, as Members of the Texas House begin the 87th Legislative Session, the HDCC congratulates Chairman Chris Turner on his reelection as Democratic Chair of the House Democratic Caucus. The capable leadership team includes Rep. Toni Rose as 1st Vice Chair, Rep. Oscar Longoria as 2nd Vice Chair, and Rep. Lina Ortega as Treasurer.
From Texas House Democratic Campaign Committee:
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January 12, 2021
Texas Freedom Network President Val Benavidez has the following statement on today’s opening of the 87th Legislature in Austin:
“Dealing with a deadly pandemic that continues to ravage our state and the need to reinforce democratic values and institutions must be top priorities in this legislative session.
From Texas Freedom Network
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January 12, 2021
As lawmakers dive into the first day of the 2021 legislative session, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) looks ahead to what public health initiatives our lawmakers can accomplish in the new year.
From American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network
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January 12, 2021
Texas Farm Bureau (TFB), the state’s largest general farm and ranch organization, is pursuing several legislative priorities to benefit Texas farmers, ranchers and rural areas in the 87th Texas Legislature that began today in Austin.
From Texas Farm Bureau
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January 12, 2021
As the 87th Texas Legislature kicks off its 140-day legislative session, Texas hospitals outline a public policy agenda focused on strengthening the state’s health care infrastructure to meet the health care needs of all Texas residents.
From Texas Hospital Association
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January 12, 2021
Texas AFL-CIO President Rick Levy and Secretary-Treasurer Montserrat Garibay posted this statement on Tuesday’s opening of the 87th session of the Texas Legislature:
“Our state is in a major crisis. Tens of thousands of people in Texas have died from COVID-19 and the decisions of lawmakers in 2021 will involve nothing less than life and death.
From Texas AFL-CIO
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January 12, 2021
James B. Crow has announced his plan to retire as Executive
Director of the Texas Association of School Boards after serving more than 25
years in that position. He will retire August 31, 2021.
From Texas Association of School Boards
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January 11, 2021
“Comptroller Hegar’s revenue estimate this morning offers both bad and good news. The pandemic and the associated impact on state revenues means Texas faces budget challenges at the very time Texans may need government help more than ever; however, the numbers are manageable.
From Texas Taxpayers and Research Association
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January 11, 2021
“Donald Trump started his campaign with hate-filled rhetoric about Mexicans and his time in power will end as he highlights the most divisive symbol of his presidency, a wall that tears apart our border communities. In a week where we’ve seen the dangers of Trumpism and Trump’s incendiary rhetoric, Donald Trump is going back to his most dangerous and hate-filled play book.
From Texas Democratic Party
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January 11, 2021
According to just-released data from the Texas Oil & Gas Association (TXOGA), the Texas oil and natural gas industry paid $13.9 billion in state and local taxes and state royalties in fiscal year 2020, funds that directly support Texas schools, teachers, roads, infrastructure and essential services. TXOGA President Todd Staples hosted a media briefing today to share the Association's Annual Energy & Economic Impact Report and outline a policy Roadmap to Recovery ahead of the 87th Texas Legislature that convenes tomorrow.
From Texas Oil & Gas Association
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January 11, 2021
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following the release of Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar's biennial revenue estimate (BRE):
"The Comptroller’s Biennial Revenue Estimate today is welcome news considering the economic challenges our state has faced.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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January 11, 2021
“A well-ordered separation of powers and a system of checks and balances is the foundation
of a healthy democracy,” said Anchía. “It is of the utmost importance that the power of the
state is responsive to the needs of the people. This measure will strengthen our state’s ability
to meet future challenges like the current COVID-19 pandemic."
From Representative Rafael Anchia
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January 11, 2021
Representative Michelle Beckley (D-Carrollton) and Representative Ana-Maria Ramos (D-Richardson)
will not attend Opening Day of the Texas Legislature at the State Capitol on January 12, 2021, believing
the ceremony may become a COVID-19 Superspreader Event. They will be swearing each other in at an
alternative location, which they are allowed to do by law as Texas legislators.
From Representative Michelle Beckley
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January 11, 2021
“We already know that the state’s essential services, including public and higher education and healthcare services, will cost the state upwards of $112 billion. Knowing that resources, particularly federal resources, are available to maintain these services, the Legislature must not ignore the state’s long-term obligations and challenges.”
From Representative Donna Howard
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January 11, 2021
Texas State Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, today issued a statement on the Biennial Revenue Estimate (BRE):
"This revenue estimate highlights the resiliency of our Texas economy," Senator Nelson, chair of the Senate Finance Committee said. "Tough decisions remain, but I am confident we can pass a budget that meets our essential needs, maintains our commitment to education and follows the principles of fiscal responsibility that put us in a stronger position than other states to withstand this unprecedented pandemic.”
From Senator Jane Nelson
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January 11, 2021
Texas Hispanic Policy Foundation: New THPF Podcast To Share Hispanic Texans’ Stories
From Texas Hispanic Policy Foundation
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January 11, 2021
As the Texas Legislature prepares to convene during a deadly pandemic, the Texas State Teachers Association calls on legislators to provide an option for virtual testimony for all committee hearings. The lawmaking process must remain accessible to all members of the public, including those who need or prefer the safety of participating remotely.
From Texas State Teachers Association
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January 7, 2021
The Texas House of Representatives today released the following information regarding media access for the 87th legislative session. Until further notice, these protocols will apply each day the House is in session. Details specific to opening day are included below.
From Texas House of Representatives
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January 7, 2021
From Senator Judith Zaffirini
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January 7, 2021
In light of the domestic terrorist attack at the Capitol of the United States yesterday, the League of Women Voters of Texas President Grace Chimene has issued the following statement:
"The peaceful transition of power is not a partisan issue.
From League of Women Voters of Texas
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January 7, 2021
-- There have been very few moments in our nation’s history that shook our country to its core. Yesterday was one of those dark days.
From Texas Democratic Party
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January 7, 2021
Today, State Representative Chris Turner (HD 101-Grand Prairie) released the following statement in response to Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton's role in yesterday's insurrection at the United States Capitol and his efforts to overturn the results of the free and fair 2020 presidential election.
From Representative Chris Turner
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January 7, 2021
Senator Sarah Eckhardt released the following statement on yesterday’s violent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol:
“Watching a lone black police officer with nothing but a riot stick defending the halls of the U.S. Capitol against an advancing white mob as senators cower under their desks, I'm reminded of the Niemoller poem that begins, ‘First they came for the socialists and I did not speak out - because I was not a socialist’ and ends with ‘then they came for me.’”
From Senator Sarah Eckhardt
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January 7, 2021
State Senator Robert Nichols (R-Jacksonville) and State Representative Trent Ashby (R-Lufkin) announced today their intent to file legislation aimed at expanding access to critical broadband services throughout the State of Texas.
From Representative Trent Ashby
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January 7, 2021
Colby Nichols is bringing his vast experience and expertise as an advocate to Ancira Strategic Partners, the public affairs firm led by Jesse Ancira. He will be joining the Firm as a Partner.
Nichols is an attorney and lobbyist who has primarily focused on general school law, including elections, real estate, purchasing, construction, student issues and employment.
From Ancira Strategic Partners
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January 7, 2021
“The attack at the Capitol was a despicable act of terrorism and a shocking assault on our democratic system. The Department of Justice should vigorously prosecute everyone who was involved in these brazen acts of violence.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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January 7, 2021
Yesterday, 37 members of the Texas House of Representatives joined State Representative Vikki Goodwin (D-Travis County) in calling on Governor Greg Abbott and DSHS Commissioner Dr. John Hellerstedt to improve the COVID-19 vaccination distribution process.
From Representative Vikki Goodwin
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January 7, 2021
“Yesterday’s cowardly attack on our American democracy was a heinous act. While Congress attempted to execute their constitutional duty to debate and vote on the certification of the electoral college, violence interrupted the proceedings in an attempt to stop the democratic process.
From Representative Roger Williams
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January 7, 2021
During the counting of the electoral college votes today, the Capitol was stormed in a desperate and half-baked play to overturn the election results. Our democracy will overcome the forces attempting to undermine it. Despite this effort, Joe Biden is the next president of the United States.
From Texas Democratic Party
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January 7, 2021
“Everyone has a right to free speech, but mob rule and violence must always be condemned! People have been seriously injured! Our Democracy is at stake! If you love this Nation you must speak out against the criminals at our Nation’s Capitol.
From Senator Jose Menendez
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January 6, 2021
Texas Freedom Network President Val Benavidez today called on U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton to resign their offices immediately for helping fuel the unhinged conspiracies that have led to today’s pro-Trump chaos and violence in the nation’s capital.
From Texas Freedom Network
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January 6, 2021
— The Texas State Auditor’s Office (SAO) released their Report on the State’s Law Enforcement Salary Schedule (Salary Schedule C) for the 2022-2023 Biennium, comparing the maximum and mid-range base pay for positions paid according to Salary Schedule C and the average maximum and mid-range base pay of the seven largest local law enforcement departments with more than 1,000 commissioned positions.
From Department of Public Safety Officers Association
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January 6, 2021
Today, Ted Cruz continued his embarrassing, dangerous attempt to overthrow the will of the people despite the fact that Joe Biden won the election handedly. Meanwhile, Indicted Texas Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton spoke at a rally of traitors where he incited violence and enabled right-wing terrorists to storm the Capitol building.
From Texas Democratic Party
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January 6, 2021
Congressman Tony Gonzales (TX-23) joined Reps: Van Duyne, Fallon, Jackson, and Pfluger on Wednesday in sending a letter to Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton affirming their commitment to working with the Attorney General’s Office on ensuring Texas has the federal resources needed to combat voter fraud.
From Representative Tony Gonzales
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January 6, 2021
Railroad Commissioner Jim Wright is pleased to announce the names and roles of his personal office staff.
Kate Zaykowski will serve as Director of Public Affairs, Christopher Hotchkiss will serve as General Counsel, and Megan Moore will serve as Executive Assistant.
From Railroad Commission of Texas
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January 6, 2021
Today, Zack Malitz, treasurer of Boot Texas Republicans released a statement on the results of Democratic wins in Georgia’s Senate Election.
“We just saw the culmination of years of hard work and strategic investment in last night’s victories in Georgia.
From Boot Texas Republicans PAC
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January 6, 2021
Congress is set to convene today in a joint session to formally count the votes of the Electoral College. But just as every step of this election has been made unnecessarily difficult by Republicans attempting to overturn the will of the people, this routine legal procedure is being turned into a sideshow by Republicans in Congress like Sen. Ted Cruz.
From Progress Texas
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January 6, 2021
The Texas Democratic Party applauds Senators-elect Jon Ossoff and Reverend Raphael Warnock. During these runoff elections Georgians voted for jobs, healthcare, and justice for all and in doing so, voted for a Democratic majority in the U.S Senate.
From Texas Democratic Party
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January 6, 2021
A critical tool developed by federal agencies for analyzing flood risk has received important enhancements for Texas as a result of state and federal cooperation.
From Texas Water Development Board
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January 5, 2021
Rep. Lyle Larson filed HJR 52 to require the Texas Legislature to hold annual legislative sessions, which last 70 days each year. This would change from the current schedule of 140 day meetings in only odd-numbered years.
From Representative Lyle Larson
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January 5, 2021
Last month, the French government pressured Engie - a company that delivers natural gas to homes and businesses all over France - to call off or delay a 20-year, $7 billion contact with a Houston-based company called NextDecade to export Texas natural gas. Apparently, the French are concerned Texas gas is too dirty.
From Railroad Commission of Texas
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January 5, 2021
The Texas Senate is committed both to transparency in the conduct of its business and to providing access to the media. Senate proceedings and all Senate committee hearings are livestreamed via the Senate webstream or televised broadcast. In order to provide physical access, the Senate requires all members of the press to have and display Senate media credentials to enter the Senate Chamber while the Senate is in session.
From Secretary of the Senate
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January 5, 2021
Today, the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) partially responded to a public information request made by Rep. Chris Turner (HD 101-Grand Prairie) regarding Ken Paxton’s lawsuit against the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the states of Georgia, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
From Representative Chris Turner
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January 5, 2021
“Speaker Pelosi begins this new Congress with a partisan rules package that discards 200 years of precedent in order to appease the radical left and diminish the voices of Republican Members. Democrats gutted the Motion to Recommit, a key safeguard that ensures the voices of the minority party can be heard, which is critically important when the Speaker determines what bills will receive a vote.
From Representative Roger Williams
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January 5, 2021
The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) for Emergency Protective Measures will receive $89,060,952.92 to increase testing for COVID-19 in Texas, U.S. Senator John Cornyn announced today.
From Senator John Cornyn
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January 5, 2021
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today issued the following statement applauding the administration’s decision to grant a presidential permit for the expansion of the Pharr International Bridge:
“Texas is home to some of the nation’s busiest border crossings and the Pharr International Bridge serves as an important port of entry to facilitate the United States’ trade and commerce with Mexico.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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January 5, 2021
Jim Wright was sworn-in as the 51st Railroad Commissioner of Texas today. The lifelong South Texan joins a three-member Commission in leading an agency that is more than a century old.
From Railroad Commission of Texas
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January 5, 2021
The following protocols will be in place when Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick gavels in the Texas Senate for the 87th Legislative Session on opening day, January 12, 2021. At a time when the U.S. Capitol and many state capitol buildings are closed to the public, these protocols are designed to ensure the Texas Capitol can be open to the public.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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January 5, 2021
In preparation for session the Capitol will reopen to the public on Monday, January 4, 2021. The 87th Legislative Session will begin at 12 noon, Tuesday, January 12, 2021. The agency looks forward to welcoming the public back to the Capitol.
From State Preservation Board
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December 23, 2020
David Spiller of Jacksboro has announced that he will seek the seat for House District 68 in the Texas House of Representatives that is to be vacated by Rep. Drew Springer after Saturday’s special election. Spiller is an attorney with the law firm of Spiller & Spiller in Jacksboro, has lived his entire life in Jack County, and is currently serving his 26th year as a Trustee of the Jacksboro Independent School District.
From David Spiller Campaign
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December 23, 2020
-- Commissioner Wayne Christian issued the statement below in response to Congress tying much needed COVID-19 relief to the end-of-the year omnibus spending bill:
It is unconscionable for Nancy Pelosi and leaders in Congress to hold COVID -19 relief hostage in order to fund their pet projects and give special interests everything on their wish list for Christmas.
From Railroad Commission of Texas
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December 23, 2020
Today, Rep. Dean announced the promotion of Ashley Troy from Legislative Director to
Chief of Staff. Danny Mittnacht, who previously filled the role, exits the office to join the staff of the
presumptive Speaker of the House.
From Representative Jay Dean
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December 23, 2020
The Texas State Teachers Association encourages every school employee who is 65 or older or who has underlying health conditions to take the COVID vaccine, if their physicians approve. But our public schools and students will not be safe until every educator who wants a vaccine can get one.
From Texas State Teachers Association
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December 21, 2020
U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), chairman of the Subcommittee on Aviation and Space, and John Cornyn (R-Texas) were joined by members of the Texas Congressional delegation in sending a letter to President Trump in support of Port San Antonio and Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA) being designated as the location for the U.S. Space Command Headquarters (USSPACECOM HQ).
From Senator Ted Cruz
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December 21, 2020
U.S. Congressman Brian Babin (TX-36) issued the following statement after sending a letter with eighteen House colleagues requesting a hearing to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, and several relevant House and Senate committee chairs.
From Representative Brian Babin
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December 21, 2020
State Representative Brooks Landgraf (R-Odessa) issued the following statement Monday after learning that Medical Center Health System CEO Russell Tippin has carved out a portion of its state-allocated COVID-19 vaccine shipment for frontline medical workers at hospitals in Kermit, Monahans and other surrounding communities:
From Representative Brooks Landgraf
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December 21, 2020
“This year we have all been battling a global pandemic and it has exacerbated already existing issues in our system. Today, my team has filed a COVID-19 legislative package aimed at assisting our frontline workers, students, the economy, and every day Texans.
From Senator Jose Menendez
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 Copyright January 21, 2021, Harvey Kronberg, www.quorumreport.com, All rights are reserved
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