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December 18, 2018
Attorney General Ken Paxton today praised Governor Greg Abbott’s appointment of David Whitley as Texas Secretary of State. He currently serves as deputy chief of staff for the governor’s office. Whitley began working for then-Attorney General Abbott in 2004, serving in various roles including assistant deputy attorney general.
From Office of the Attorney General
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December 18, 2018
On the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed the recent changes made to the First Step Act and the resulting endorsements from key law enforcement groups. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s floor remarks are below, and video can be found here.
“This legislation is based on prison reform but has taken on some additional attributes relative to how we sentence and how judges sentence people convicted of various crimes.”
From Senator John Cornyn
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December 18, 2018
The Texas Medical Association (TMA) believes a Texas federal judge’s recent ruling that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is unconstitutional provides a bipartisan pathway to strengthen access to health care and provide coverage for the 4.5 million Texans without health care coverage.
From Texas Medical Association
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December 18, 2018
State Senator Donna Campbell, Chairwoman of Senate Veteran Affairs and Border Security, released the following statement in response to Airbnb's announcement of a new policy discriminating against Israeli residents in the West Bank:
"On November 19, Airbnb issued a press release announcing they would no longer allow listings in Israeli settlements in the West Bank to be booked via the Airbnb platform.
From Senator Donna Campbell
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December 18, 2018
Today, the Mexican American Legislative Caucus met to elect the executive Board for the 86th Legislative Session.
Through a unanimous vote, the Board was re-elected as follows:
From Mexican American Legislative Caucus
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December 18, 2018
In 2018, there are still thousands of Texans that don't have access to clean water and adequate wastewater infrastructure. Thankfully, last Thursday, the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) took a big step in helping those Texans and their communities. During TWDB’s Board Meeting, $12,865,000 in funding from the Economically Distressed Areas Program (EDAP) was approved to provide first-time wastewater service to 800 households in Montana Vista.
From Representative Mary Gonzalez
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December 18, 2018
In a letter today to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Attorney General Ken Paxton urged prompt repeal of an Obama-era rule that violates the religious liberty of Texas’ faith-based foster care and adoption service providers by requiring them to abandon their core religious beliefs as a condition of receiving federal funding under Title IV-E of the Social Security Act.
From Office of the Attorney General
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December 18, 2018
An innovative instructional video and presentation on how citizens and law enforcement officers should interact during traffic stops is now available to the public.
The Community Safety Education Act (S.B. 30) – introduced by State Senator Royce West and signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott – mandates specific instruction on traffic stop behavior by motorists and law enforcement officers.
From Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation
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December 18, 2018
U.S. Rep. Brian Babin (TX-36) issued the following statement officially announcing his endorsement of fellow Texan John Cornyn for United States Senate.
“I am proud to endorse my friend John Cornyn for the United States Senate. John has been leading the charge in the Senate fighting against illegal immigration and to improve our healthcare system, and he’s been a leading advocate for strengthening our military and caring for our veterans.
From Brian Babin Campaign
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December 18, 2018
Today, State Representative Joe C. Pickett of El Paso released the below statement:
"With a heavy heart, I am stepping down as a member of the Texas House of Representatives effective January 4th, 2019. Just before last session, I learned I had cancer. I moved quickly and sought treatment which was somewhat successful, but not 100%.
From Representative Joe C. Pickett
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December 18, 2018
Statement by Texas AFL-CIO President Rick Levy:
"If allowed to stand, today's outrageous ruling by a Fort Worth-based federal judge could eventually deprive millions of working people of a fair shot at affordable health care."
From Texas AFL-CIO
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December 18, 2018
Attorney General Ken Paxton today applauded a U.S. District Court decision declaring
unconstitutional the federal government’s Affordable Care Act, commonly known as Obamacare.
From Office of the Attorney General
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December 18, 2018
The House Committee on Pensions issued the interim report to the 86th Legislature providing an overview of the committee’s work and an analysis of issues facing pensions across the state.
“This committee has worked hard to improve and save pensions across the State of Texas and this report shows the efforts that have been done and lays out the road ahead. We are committed to making sure that Texas pensions are fiscally responsible and actuarially sound while preserving the retirement for current employees and retirees,” said Chairman Dan Flynn.
From Texas House Committee on Pensions
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December 14, 2018
The death, first revealed by the Washington Post, raises significant questions about the conditions in CBP’s short-term holding facilities, and the general suitability of such facilities for families given that Border Patrol stations were never designed to hold children.
From Congressional Hispanic Caucus
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December 14, 2018
The Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) released an update to its Pension Design Study today, December 14, 2018. The study, originally conducted in 2012, was originally requested by the Texas Legislature to assess potential changes to the pension fund’s defined benefit plan design.
A defined benefit pension plan, also known as a DB plan, differs from a defined contribution or DC plan in that it provides a lifetime annuity to plan participants.
From Texas Retired Teachers Association
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December 14, 2018
U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) issued the following statements praising the bipartisan deal to combat sexual harassment in Congress.
“In the last year, as scores of victims have come forward to share their stories of abuse, it has become overwhelmingly apparent that workplace misconduct is far too common,” Sen. Cruz.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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December 14, 2018
Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28), along with Representatives Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23), G.K. Butterfield (NC-01), Peter Welch (VT-AL), and Terri Sewell (AL-07), Shelia Jackson Lee (TX-18), Dan Kildee (MI-05), and Pete Aguilar (CA-31), was named Chief Deputy Whip by House Majority Whip-Elect James E. Clyburn for the 116th Congress. The Congressman released the following statement regarding this new position:
“I would like to thank House Majority Whip-Elect Clyburn for providing me with this great leadership opportunity.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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December 14, 2018
Attorney General Ken Paxton today announced that his Consumer Protection Division finalized a settlement with the owners of 11 gas stations – mostly Big Willy’s – accused of price gouging last year during the state of disaster declared for Hurricane Harvey.
From Office of the Attorney General
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December 14, 2018
FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has received flood claims on more than 800 homes that were damaged in the Oct. 16th flooding in central Texas. Thus far, payments for insured losses have exceeded $22 million and could exceed $30 million when all claims have been filed and paid. This total does not include homeowners who did not have flood insurance coverage.
From Insurance Council of Texas
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December 14, 2018
In 2018, there are still thousands of Texans that don't have access to clean water and adequate wastewater infrastructure. Thankfully, earlier today the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) took a big step in helping those Texans and their communities. During TWDB’s Board Meeting, $12,865,000 in funding from the Economically Distressed Areas Program (EDAP) was approved to provide first-time wastewater service to 800 households in Montana Vista.
From Representative Mary Gonzalez
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December 13, 2018
Yesterday, Rep. Celia Israel (HD 50) filed House Bill 517, allowing the State of Texas to take action against mental health care providers who practice "conversion therapy" on LGBTQ youth.
Conversion therapy is the practice of aiming to eliminate or suppress the sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression of LGBTQ individuals.
From Representative Celia Israel
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December 13, 2018
Texas State Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, today filed another package of bills in preparation for the upcoming legislative session, which begins in January 8, 2019 and concludes its business on Monday, May 27, 2019. Lawmakers may file legislation through March 8, 2019.
From Senator Jane Nelson
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December 13, 2018
The Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) today released the State Flood Assessment, a report to the Texas Legislature and the culmination of more than a year of outreach and research. The report includes TWDB’s recommendation to the legislature for statewide flood mitigation efforts.
From Texas Water Development Board
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December 13, 2018
The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $9,249,026 in fines on 3,475 enforcement dockets involving the state's oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety for calendar year 2018. These include:
$76,603 in fines assessed in protested dockets that went to hearing and related to pipeline damage and oil and gas violations;
From Railroad Commission of Texas
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December 13, 2018
The Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) today approved financial assistance totaling $162,994,350 for water and wastewater system projects. Of this funding, $57,254,350 was approved for rural projects.
From Texas Water Development Board
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December 13, 2018
The Alliance of Independent Pharmacists of Texas applauds state Rep. Tom Oliverson, M.D. (R-Cypress) for his ongoing national leadership in the effort to protect patients and pharmacies from the harmful business practices of Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs).
From Alliance of Independent Pharmacists of Texas
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December 12, 2018
It looks like the nation's farmers and ranchers will receive the certainty of a full, five-year farm bill for Christmas. The U.S. House of Representatives approved the farm, nutrition and conservation legislation in a 369-47 vote Wednesday afternoon.
From Texas Farm Bureau
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December 12, 2018
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today questioned administration officials on the threats of China’s non-traditional espionage against the United States. There, he expressed his concerns of China’s espionage activities stating, “I’m increasingly concerned that China is gaining access to American secrets using non-traditional all-of-nation approaches to conduct espionage against our allies.” Sen. Cruz directed his line of questioning to address concerns of Chinese espionage, as well as the threat it imposes to the United States’ safety and security.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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December 12, 2018
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) today released the final 2018 state academic accountability ratings for 1,200 school districts and charters and more than 8,700 campuses. The final ratings include the results of an appeals process that provides districts and charters an opportunity to contest preliminary ratings.
From Texas Education Agency
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December 12, 2018
U.S. Rep. Brian Babin (TX-36) released the following statement after the passage of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (H.R. 2), commonly known as the farm bill. Dr. Babin voted for this bill which now awaits President Trump’s signature to become law.
From Representative Brian Babin
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December 12, 2018
Representative Dennis Bonnen (R-Angleton) today announced eight Policy Advisors to the House — including three who will also serve as Assistant General Counsel — and one Policy Office Coordinator will join the Office of the Speaker on January 8th, 2019. Amanda Lopez, Jennifer Saenz, and Jesse Sifuentez will each serve as Assistant General Counsel and Policy Advisors to the House.
From Representative Dennis Bonnen
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December 12, 2018
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) today released the Texas Gang Threat Assessment, which was developed to provide a broad overview and update of gang activity in Texas.
“The findings in this report are further evidence that the State of Texas must continue to do all it can to proactively and aggressively combat gangs operating in our state,” said Governor Greg Abbott.
From Texas DPS
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December 12, 2018
U.S. Representative Will Hurd’s bipartisan bill, the DHS Data Framework Act, is officially on its way to the President’s desk today to be signed into law after the House unanimously concurred with the Senate version of the bill. This is Hurd’s 13th piece of legislation to be signed into law since 2015. Following the House voice vote, Hurd released the following statement:
From Representative Will Hurd
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December 12, 2018
Today, U.S. Representative Will Hurd (TX-23) proudly voted in support of the Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018 Conference Report (commonly known as the Farm Bill), which provides our nation’s farmers and ranchers with certainty and stability to continue feeding America.
From Representative Will Hurd
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December 12, 2018
Senator Paul Bettencourt (R-Houston) has filed Senate Bill 227, the Homeowners Religious Freedom Act. This legislation protects homeowners from overzealous Homeowner Association rules that would effectively ban religious displays. These problems especially reoccur every year around Hanukkah, Christmas, etc…
From Senator Paul Bettencourt
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December 12, 2018
Following a report criticizing lack of transparency at the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), the Texas Sunset Commission examined the agency at a hearing today. The Texas Public Interest Research Group (TexPIRG) called on the Commission and state Legislature to adopt reforms to LCRA to provide greater transparency.
"Citizens' ability to understand how their tax dollars are spent is fundamental
to democracy," said Bay Scoggin, Director of TexPIRG. "Budget and spending transparency holds government officials accountable for making smart decisions,
checks corruption, and provides citizens an opportunity to affect how government
dollars are spent. It's time for a dose of sunlight at LCRA."
From TexPIRG
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December 12, 2018
State and local officials joined Comptroller Glenn Hegar today at a groundbreaking ceremony for construction of the Texas Bullion Depository.
“This groundbreaking is a milestone in what is an historic achievement: the first ever state-administered gold bullion depository,” Hegar said. “I’m very proud of the work my team has done, and I’m thankful for the efforts of (depository operator) Lone Star Tangible Assets to make this day a reality.”
From Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
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December 12, 2018
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) issued the following statement upon casting a vote in support of the final 2018 Farm Bill:
“America’s agriculture and farming communities are vital to the fabric of our great nation, and are an enduring legacy of the Lone Star State. This bill includes important safeguards, including crop insurance, for our farmers and ranchers who feed and supply our country.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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December 12, 2018
Two-thirds of Texans without health insurance live in working families and more than half are in families that include at least one full-time worker. These are just some of the findings from a detailed report on the uninsured in Texas written by Urban Institute analysts and sponsored by Episcopal Health Foundation (EHF).
From Episcopal Health Foundation
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December 12, 2018
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick made the following statement today in response to the news that a Harris County Deputy Sheriff and two law enforcement officers from the Texas Attorney General’s Office were wounded in Houston. Later this afternoon, an El Paso Police Department officer was also wounded when shots were fired at him.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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December 12, 2018
Attorney General Ken Paxton released the following statement on today’s shooting in Houston:
“This afternoon, Captain Wes Hensley and Sergeant Mark Rychen from the Fugitive Apprehension Unit in my office were shot and wounded while serving an arrest warrant on a suspect in Northeast Harris County.
From Office of the Attorney General
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December 12, 2018
U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) today released the following statement after the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 passed the Senate:
“After many discussions with Texas farmers and ranchers, I’m pleased to report this Farm Bill includes a number of their priorities, including strengthening crop insurance, maintaining seed cotton eligibility for the Farm Bill safety net, and promoting animal health by countering cattle tick fever and Chronic Wasting Disease,” said Sen. Cornyn.
From Senator John Cornyn
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December 11, 2018
The state's largest farm and ranch organization is applauding the Senate's passage of a full, five-year farm bill Tuesday afternoon.
"With annual farm income projected to be at the third-lowest level in more than two decades, American farmers and ranchers need the stability provided by the farm bill," Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) President Russell Boening said.
From Texas Farm Bureau
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December 11, 2018
The Texas Office of the Attorney General released a statement today after receiving news that two OAG officers and a deputy serving the Harris County Sheriff’s Department were shot in the line of duty:
“This afternoon, two of our officers from the Office of Attorney General’s Fugitive Apprehension Unit were wounded while serving an arrest warrant alongside a deputy from the Harris County Sheriff’s Department.
From Office of the Attorney General
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December 11, 2018
Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) unveils its plan to drastically roll back Clean Water Act protections from vast networks of streams and wetlands in Texas and across the country. Brian Zabcik, Clean Water Advocate at Environment Texas, issued the following statement:
“The ‘Dirty Water Rule’ is the most extreme attack on clean water in recent memory. This outrageous proposal upends the core mission of the EPA: protecting human health and the environment.
From Environment Texas:
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December 11, 2018
There's good news for the nations' farmers, ranchers and landowners. On Tuesday, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) unveiled it's proposed replacement for the embattled Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule.
The move drew support from the state's largest farm organization.
From Texas Farm Bureau
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December 11, 2018
Today, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Rep. Mark Meadows (R-N.C.) introduced the SuperPAC Elimination Act, which expands and protects free speech in elections by allowing unlimited individual contributions to candidates with immediate disclosure, effectively eliminating SuperPACs. As a foundation for meaningful reform, this bill protects the interests of the American people and will serve as a model for how we should approach championing free speech in campaign finance.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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December 11, 2018
Lt. Governor Dan Patrick announced today that he is endorsing Senator John Cornyn for re-election to the U.S. Senate in 2020:
“Senator John Cornyn and I have been working together for Texas for many years. I told him months ago that I would be proud to endorse his re-election in 2020 and today, I am making that endorsement official. John is a principled leader who has been a great U.S. Senator for Texas.
From Dan Patrick Campaign
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December 11, 2018
U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) announced he has cosponsored the First Step Act after securing new changes to address the concerns of Senate Republicans and law enforcement:
“After listening to the concerns of our conference and law enforcement community, I’ve been working to improve this legislation so a majority of Senate Republicans can support it.
From Senator John Cornyn
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December 11, 2018
Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) included language in the fiscal year 2019 Appropriations package addressing issues pertaining to immigrant family separations and unaccompanied immigrant children at the U.S.-Mexico border. This legislation, which includes the Department of Defense, and Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations bills, passed both chambers of congress and was signed by the President at the end of September.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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December 11, 2018
Today on the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed his two new pieces of legislation to ensure safety and efficiency along Texas’ border. This month, he has introduced the Missing Persons and Unidentified Remains Act of 2018 and the United States Ports of Entry Threat and Operational Review Act.
From Senator John Cornyn
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December 10, 2018
Attorney General Ken Paxton today joined a bipartisan coalition of 43 state attorneys general urging the Social Security Administration (SSA) to comply with a new provision of federal law intended to protect Americans from the growing problem of synthetic identity theft. Such fraud occurs when criminals use real Social Security numbers along with fictitious names and birthdates to create fake identities, which are then used to apply for credit cards or loans.
From Office of the Attorney General
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December 10, 2018
Texas Petition Strategies, the leading firm conducting local option ballot initiates in Texas, scored a near perfect record, winning 20 of 21 ballot propositions this election season which included the November 6 and December 8 Elections. The firm, located in Buda, Texas near Austin, was hired to conduct the petition campaigns for twenty-one efforts, achieving 100% success in getting the issues on the ballot.
From Texas Petition Strategies
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December 10, 2018
Congressman Roger Williams (R – Austin), who represents Fort Hood, released the following statement after President Donald Trump named Army Chief of Staff General Mark A. Milley to succeed Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph Dunford:
From Representative Roger Williams
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December 7, 2018
Today, State Senator Kel Seliger (R- Amarillo) filed Senate Bill 223, to delink the elected class retirement annuity calculation from the salary of district judges.
Since 1991, the salary used to calculate the service retirement annuity for elected officials, such as state senators, has been tied to the salary of state district judges.
From Senator Kel Seliger
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December 7, 2018
State Representative Hugh Shine filed six pieces of property tax legislation on December 7, 2018. The legislation revolves around transparency and property tax reform. Shine has been working with a stakeholder group of sixty plus individuals on all sides of the property tax issue for the past 15 months.
From Representative Hugh Shine
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December 7, 2018
Today, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)’s Texas Energy Sector Rural Improvement Program received $50 million through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s BUILD grant program to improve roads impacted by the Permian Basin energy boom in Winkler, Reagan and Glasscock Counties.
U.S. Representative Will Hurd (TX-23), was instrumental in securing the funds by penning a bipartisan letter of support signed by 21 members of Congress to U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao and by advocating for the projects separately to Deputy Assistant Secretary Sean McMaster.
From Representative Will Hurd
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December 7, 2018
Attorney General Ken Paxton today commended President Trump’s nomination of former U.S. Attorney General William Barr to lead the Department of Justice again:
“In William Barr, President Trump nominated a highly respected attorney and brilliant legal mind who has demonstrated an unfailing commitment to the rule of law and fidelity to the pursuit of justice,” Attorney General Paxton said.
From Office of the Attorney General
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December 7, 2018
Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Chairman Elect of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus; Congressman Elijah E. Cummings (MD-07), Ranking Member of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee; Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (MI-02), Ranking Member of the House Homeland Security Committee; and Congressman Jerrold Nadler (NY-10), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee, today called on the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of the Inspector General (OIG) to investigate the death of Mariee Juarez days after leaving DHS custody earlier this year.
From Representative Joaquin Castro
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December 7, 2018
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today released the following statement on his support for a revised version of the First Step Act:
“I have long supported criminal justice reform. I believe in reducing mandatory minimum sentences for non-violent drug offenders, and providing greater opportunities for offenders to be rehabilitated.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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December 7, 2018
Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced $1.6 billion in federal funding for Community Health Centers (CHCs) in the fiscal year 2019 Defense and Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations package. This legislation passed the House and Senate and was signed into law by the President at the end of September before the end of the fiscal year.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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December 7, 2018
Commissioner of Education Mike Morath announced today that the Texas Education Agency (TEA) is accepting applications from school districts to the 2019 cohort of the System of Great Schools (SGS) Network.
From Texas Education Agency
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December 7, 2018
U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), John Cornyn (R-Texas) and U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas) released the following statements after the President signed their bill to rename the U.S. Postal Office in Mission, Texas as the “Mission Veterans Post Office Building” into law:
From Senator Ted Cruz
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December 7, 2018
Today, in light of the resignation of current Secretary of State, Rolando Pablos, Rep. Celia Israel (HD 50 - Austin) is calling on Governor Abbott to appoint a candidate that will focus on improving Texas's critical elections infrastructure. With a majority of Texas voting machines over 10 years old, experts say these machines should not be used for any more time than they already have been.
From Representative Celia Israel
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December 7, 2018
Attorney General Ken Paxton’s office today announced that a jury found 41-year-old Steven Charles Sumlin guilty on the charge of continuous trafficking of persons, a first-degree felony, for the sex trafficking of a 16-year-old girl and a 22-year-old woman. He was sentenced to 55 years in prison.
From Office of the Attorney General
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December 7, 2018
Leading a coalition of 10 states, Attorney General Ken Paxton today filed a friend-of-the-court brief with the U.S. Supreme Court supporting President Trump’s authority to rescind the unlawful Obama-era Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) progam. DACA unilaterally granted lawful presence and work permits to nearly one million unlawfully-present aliens without congressional authorization.
From Office of the Attorney General
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December 6, 2018
The office of Senator José Rodríguez is coordinating a "Gifts for Good" drive for the youth in the Tornillo detention center, which currently holds 2,400 children. Many from the community have asked how they can help and now the community has an opportunity.
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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December 6, 2018
The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) today announced the average unemployment insurance (UI) tax rate for all employers will be 1.25 percent for Calendar Year (CY) 2019, dropping from 1.37 percent in CY 2018 to its lowest point since 2009.
From Texas Workforce Commission
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December 6, 2018
The Texas Comptroller’s office announced today that Lone Star Tangible Assets (LSTA) has selected MHT Constructors, LLC, as general contractor to build the Texas Bullion Depository.
From Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
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December 6, 2018
U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) and U.S. Congressmen Will Hurd (TX-23) and Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) today introduced the Missing Persons and Unidentified Remains Act of 2018, a bill to help local jurisdictions improve the recording and reporting of missing persons and unidentified remains found along the U.S.-Mexico border.
From Senator John Cornyn
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December 6, 2018
Leading a bipartisan coalition of 36 states, Attorney General Ken Paxton’s office today presented a strong case for the U.S. Supreme Court to uphold its longstanding view on states’ authority to prosecute criminals.
From Office of the Attorney General
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December 6, 2018
The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) Governing Board has named David Cervantes as Acting Director of the agency, effective December 1, 2018. Cervantes succeeds outgoing executive director Tim Irvine who is retiring after 19 years of state service.
From Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs
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December 6, 2018
Most individuals find the transition to adulthood difficult – but for alumni of the foster care system, making that transition is uniquely overwhelming. Difficulty acquiring postsecondary education and mental health care, housing instability and homelessness, pregnancy and parenting, and lack of relational support all pose obstacles to a successful adulthood for foster care youth.
From TexProtects
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December 6, 2018
U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), and John Kennedy (R-La.) on Wednesday introduced the WALL Act, legislation that would fully fund the border wall along the southern border. Their legislation is also the first bill that will fund the wall by identifying specific funding sources.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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December 6, 2018
Representatives Dennis Bonnen (R-Angleton), Joe Moody (D-El Paso), and Four Price (R-Amarillo) today announced Sharon Carter and Hugh Brady will serve jointly as Parliamentarians for the Texas House of Representatives in the 86th Legislative Session. Today’s announcement follows last month’s formation of a diverse bipartisan working group of ten House Members – selected by Rep. Bonnen and led by Reps. Price and Moody – to search and make recommendations for the next House Parliamentarian.
From Representative Dennis Bonnen
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December 5, 2018
“There could not be a clearer warning signal about the seriousness of the state’s nursing home funding crisis than yesterday’s bankruptcy filing by Senior Care Centers LLC. Caring for over 10,000 patients and employing over 11,000 employees, this unfortunate announcement will have impact across the state and across the long term care sector.
From Texas Health Care Association
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December 5, 2018
Every year we hear of stories where the government tries to ban references to Christmas in public schools and on public property. This week, Texas Values announced the launch of its annual “Merry Christmas Texas Project,” a statewide effort to educate and protect the acknowledgment of Christmas in public schools.
From Texas Values
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December 5, 2018
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today delivered remarks on the Senate floor honoring the life and legacy of former President George H.W. Bush.
“He will be remembered as a good and faithful servant to his country, whose great legacy of leadership and love of homeland became a family tradition, earned him the admiration of cou
From Senator Ted Cruz
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December 5, 2018
Cornerstone Government Affairs announced the addition of Steve Holzheauser as a Senior Consultant to the firm. Holzheauser comes to Cornerstone having previously been a political consultant with Woodhouse Group Texas.
“Steve Holzheauser is one of the most respected and knowledgeable consultants in Austin.,” said Tony Essalih, Cornerstone Director out of Houston, Texas.
From Cornerstone Government Affairs
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December 5, 2018
Today on the floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed the extraordinary life and legacy of President George H.W. Bush following his passing. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s floor remarks are below, and video can be found here.
“To his country, he was a devoted public servant who fought to defend our freedoms and led the nation at the end of the Cold War and at the fall of the Berlin Wall.”
From Senator John Cornyn
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December 4, 2018
State Representative Hugh Shine filed House Bill 452 on December 3, 2018 to allow local courts in Bell County to appoint "truancy masters" that will serve in the same capacity as justices and share the caseload from local schools.
"As school populations increase across the State of Texas, we have seen an increase in truancy issues that not only affect school funding, but also student success.
From Representative Hugh Shine
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December 4, 2018
Voting delegates stamped their position on food labeling and regulatory control of imitation meat and dairy products at Texas Farm Bureau's (TFB) 85th Annual Meeting.
Eminent domain and electronic logging devices also topped the list of concerns during the policy session, which concluded yesterday in Corpus Christi.
From Texas Farm Bureau
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December 4, 2018
U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) today introduced a Senate resolution honoring the late President George H.W. Bush. The full text of the resolution can be read here.
“President George H.W. Bush was a dedicated family man and husband of 73 years,” reads the resolution. “[He] showed unwavering love and devotion to his family, the United States, and the world.”
From Senator John Cornyn
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December 4, 2018
Today, State Senator Seliger (R-Amarillo) filed Senate Bill 213, which allows for the continued use of Individual Graduation Committees. SB 213 gives deserving students who fail one or two state mandated exams, but otherwise meet all other graduation requirements, a path to high school graduation.
From Senator Kel Seliger
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December 4, 2018
Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar today said state sales tax revenue totaled $2.998 billion in November, 7.7 percent more than in November 2017.
“While slower than the double-digit pace of recent months, state sales tax revenue growth in November was strong,” Hegar said.
From Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
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December 4, 2018
The Texas Commission on Licensing and Regulation today honored Keith Bell, the out-going presiding officer of the Electrical Safety and Licensing Board. Bell resigned from the board this afternoon. He will be sworn in as a State Representative in the Texas House of Representatives in January.
From Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation
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December 3, 2018
The Texas Public Power Association (TPPA), a trade association representing the 72 municipally-owned electric utilities (MOUs) in Texas and celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2018, announced today that longtime Austin public affairs executive Russ Keene has joined the association as its sixth executive director.
From Texas Public Power Association
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December 3, 2018
Today U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) issued the following statement after Governor Greg Abbott appointed Major General Tracy Norris as the Adjutant General of Texas, effective January 1, 2019:
“The Texas Military Department will be well-served by the leadership of Major General Norris,” said Sen. Cornyn. “Throughout her 32 years of service, she has demonstrated unwavering patriotism, dedication, and talent, and I commend her on achieving this appointment to her next role.”
From Senator John Cornyn
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December 3, 2018
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) last week penned a letter to FEMA Administrator Brock Long urging him to amend the scope of the existing FEMA dredging project on the San Jacinto River near Kingwood to include the mouth bar located on the West Fork of the river.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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December 3, 2018
Today Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush announced the application for the Homeowner Assistance Program is now available in all eligible Hurricane Harvey affected counties. The Texas General Land Office (GLO) allocated $1.098 billion in Community Development Block Grants for Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), for rehabilitation and reconstruction of thousands of owner-occupied single-family homes damaged by Hurricane Harvey.
From Texas General Land Office
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December 3, 2018
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick made the following statement today after helping decorate the Senate Chamber's Christmas tree:
"I am proud to once again bring Christmas to the Texas Senate. Texans of all faiths celebrate during the end of the year holiday season and we will continue to protect that freedom and religious liberty for everyone.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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December 3, 2018
Earlier in November, The Board of Hispanic Caucus Chairs (BHCC) elected new leadership at the BHCC 13th Annual Conference in Washington, DC, and Rep. González was elected Vice Chair of the Caucus. The BHCC conference is the largest gathering of Latina/o state legislative leaders in the nation and is the premier policy event for state legislative issues relevant to the Latina/o community.
From Representative Mary Gonzalez
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December 3, 2018
Eminent domain reform is agriculture's top state issue for 2019, according to the president of Texas' largest farm organization.
From Texas Farm Bureau
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December 3, 2018
The Texas House Republican Caucus voted today to elect Dennis Bonnen as the new Speaker of the House. Texas Values Action eagerly awaits fresh leadership in the State House and stands ready to work with Speaker Bonnen.
From Texas Values Action
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December 3, 2018
Today, the members of the Texas House Republican Caucus met for the Caucus’ Selection of its Endorsed Speaker Candidate for the upcoming 86th Legislative Session. The Texas House Republican Caucus has selected Representative Dennis Bonnen as its Endorsed Speaker Candidate.
From Texas House Republican Caucus
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December 3, 2018
Attorney General Ken Paxton released the following statement this morning as the world mourns the death of President George H.W. Bush:
"I join all Americans and Texans in mourning the passing of a true patriot and fine president, George H.W. Bush. Across six decades, President Bush served his country courageously and selflessly.
From Office of the Attorney General
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December 3, 2018
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick made this statement today after the passing of former U.S. President George H. W. Bush:
“Jan and I express our deepest condolences to the Bush family on the passing of our former President, George H. W. Bush. President Bush was a great Texan whose life and work exemplify public service and love for his country. His lasting legacy will inspire Americans for generations to come.”
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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December 3, 2018
Today U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) issued the following statement after former President George H.W. Bush passed away:
“Today the nation mourns the loss of a great patriarch who served this country as a war hero, Congressman, CIA Director, Vice President, and President. Just as important, he will be missed by his family as a caring husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. A truly honorable and gracious man has gone home to God.
From Senator John Cornyn
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December 3, 2018
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today issued the following statement on the passing of former President George H. W. Bush:
“Today, American hearts are heavy as we bid farewell to President George H.W. Bush. He will be remembered as a good and faithful servant to his country, whose great legacy of leadership and love of homeland became a family tradition, earned him the admiration of countless Americans, and secured him a special place in the memory of every Texan.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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December 3, 2018
"President George Bush lived his entire life in service to his country. History will remember him as a man who made America stronger and more secure, who served bravely as a Navy aviator and led boldly as Commander in Chief, who made difficult decisions even when they weren’t politically convenient, and who governed with strength and pragmatism. He was all of those things, and a statesman in every sense of the word.
From Speaker Joe Straus
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December 3, 2018
Rep. Giddings received the distinguished Lifetime Achievement Award this evening at the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce (DBCC) 92nd Anniversary Annual Awards Dinner at the Renaissance Dallas Hotel.
From Representative Helen Giddings
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November 30, 2018
Lt. Governor Dan Patrick has appointed Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa to the Select Committee to Determine a Sufficient Balance of the Economic Stabilization Fund. The committee met this morning and adopted a sufficient balance of $7.5 billion.
Senator Hinojosa issued the following statement:
"It is an honor to be appointed to the Select Committee to Determine a Sufficient Balance of the Economic Stabilization Fund (ESF).
From Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa
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November 30, 2018
The Revenue Workgroup, Chaired by Senator Paul Bettencourt (R-Houston) today presented their series of recommendations to the full Texas Commission on Public School Finance. The Workgroup voted to advance these proposals to the full commission earlier this week by a 4-1 vote.
From Senator Paul Bettencourt
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November 30, 2018
Today, the comprehensive committee report of the House Select Committee on Opioids and Substance Abuse was released to the public. The Select Committee, chaired by State Representative Four Price and comprised of 13 House members, was tasked by the Speaker's Proclamation to "develop and present concrete principles and action items to reduce the scourge of opioids in Texas and to provide legislative solutions to address these issues, as well as examine other topics related to substance abuse in Texas."
From Representative Four Price
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November 30, 2018
Attorney General Ken Paxton today filed a lawsuit in Travis County district court against the city of San Antonio, its police department, chief of police and city manager, to require their compliance with Senate Bill 4. Enacted by the Legislature last session, Senate Bill 4 prohibits sanctuary cities in Texas. Earlier this year, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit upheld virtually all of the law.
From Office of the Attorney General
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November 30, 2018
The Senate Finance Committee has issued its interim report – an analysis of several issues facing Texas with recommendations for the upcoming Legislature to consider.
“I appreciate the hard work of the Senate Finance Committee members over the interim to delve into key fiscal issues such as tax policy, fee structure, and the Economic Stabilization Fund,” said the committee chair, Texas State Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound.
From Senator Jane Nelson
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November 30, 2018
With the future of the Economic Stabilization Fund (ESF), often called the "Rainy Day" Fund, emerging as a major issue facing the 86th Legislature, the Select Committee to Determine a Sufficient Balance of the Economic Stabilization Fund (ESF) met today and set the ESF sufficient balance at $7.5 billion with Texas State Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, presiding as co-chair.
From Senator Jane Nelson
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November 30, 2018
Congressman Michael McCaul (TX-10) issued the following statement after being selected by the House Republican Conference to serve as Ranking Member on the House Foreign Affairs Committee for the 116th Congress:
Congressman McCaul: “I am honored to be selected as the top Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee (HFAC).
From Representative Michael McCaul
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November 30, 2018
Today, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) selected its leadership team for the 116th Congress. Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) will chair the CHC. Joining Congressman Castro on the leadership team will be Congressman Ruben Gallego (AZ-07) as First Vice Chair, Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44) as Second Vice Chair, Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13) as whip, and Congresswoman-Elect Veronica Escobar (TX-16) as Freshman Representative.
From Congressional Hispanic Caucus
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November 30, 2018
On Thursday, November 29, 2018, the House voted on H.R. 7187, National Flood Insurance Program Further Extension Act. This legislation extends the current National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) through December 7. After passage of the bill, Congressman Randy Weber (R – Friendswood) released the following statement:
From Representative Randy Weber
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November 30, 2018
Today Congressman Jodey Arrington (TX-19) released the following statement after the Republican Steering Committee voted to elect Congresswoman Kay Granger (TX-12) to take the helm as Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee.
“Congratulations to my friend and fellow Texan, Kay Granger, on being selected as Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee for the 116th Congress,” said Arrington.
From Representative Jodey Arrington
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November 29, 2018
Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and First Vice Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, today released the following statement in response to reports that the Trump Administration is still separating families at the border:
“The President’s zero-tolerance immigration policy cruelly tore children from their parents and ran contrary to our American values.
From Representative Joaquin Castro
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November 29, 2018
McGinnis Lochridge is pleased to announce that Travis E. Vickery has joined the firm as Of Counsel in Austin. Vickery will join the firm’s Electric Energy Practice Group, drawing on his administrative law background handling cases in the electric energy, natural resources, and environmental sectors.
From McGinnis Lochridge
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November 29, 2018
Today, Congressmen Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15), and ten other Democratic members sent a letter expressing their opposition to Leader Schumer’s recent comments establishing Senate Democrats’ starting negotiating position of $1.6 billion for a border wall. In the letter, the members made clear that the Democrats should not accept any funding in the FY 2019 Homeland Security Appropriations bill.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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November 29, 2018
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today reminded Texans impacted by Hurricane Harvey who are still rebuilding their homes and businesses that they have until the end of the year to access their retirement accounts without having to pay the ten percent penalty that typically applies. Retirement account withdrawals must be made by December 31, 2018.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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November 29, 2018
Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and First Vice Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, today released the following statement:
“Today’s guilty plea from Michael Cohen for lying to Congress about Moscow Trump Tower shows that his plea arrangement struck in August has indeed turned into cooperation.
From Representative Joaquin Castro
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November 29, 2018
Representative Dennis Bonnen (R-Angleton) today announced Andrew Blifford, the current Chief of Staff in the Office of Speaker Joe Straus, will continue to serve in the Speaker’s Office as Rep. Bonnen’s Director of Finance. In this position, Blifford will be charged with overseeing and directing all budget operations.
From Representative Dennis Bonnen
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November 29, 2018
House Bill 421 by State Representative Hugh D. Shine aims to extend the Purple Heart Trail to the section of Interstate Highway 14 in Bell County.
"As a county that is so involved with veterans and with active duty military, we want to honor those that have made sacrifices for our freedom and to show others that come through what we stand for."
From Representative Hugh Shine
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November 29, 2018
Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar announced today he recently completed the transfer of $2.77 billion into the State Highway Fund (SHF) and the Economic Stabilization Fund (ESF; commonly known as the "Rainy Day Fund"). Each fund received more than $1.38 billion, or 50 percent of the total transfer.
From Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
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November 28, 2018
The Senate Select Committee on Property Tax Reform met today at Lone Star College-Montgomery to study modifications to the rollback rate, evaluate the operations of appraisal review boards, and study the feasibility of replacing the property tax with a consumption tax.
From Senator Paul Bettencourt
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November 28, 2018
Attorney General Ken Paxton today applauded a decision by the Texas 3rd Court of Appeals to toss out a lawsuit that challenged state licensing of family residential centers, including the Dilley and Karnes centers in South Texas.
From Office of the Attorney General
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November 28, 2018
Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and First Vice Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, today made the following statement following press reports that more than 2,000 workers at Tornillo have not received background checks:
From Representative Joaquin Castro
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November 28, 2018
Rep. Hurd released the following statement regarding the Tornillo Facility:
“The problems we are seeing in Tornillo are as shameful as they were in June and symptoms of a much larger problem that we’ve spent years ignoring – a broken immigration system.
From Representative Will Hurd
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November 28, 2018
Yesterday, the Travis County Commissioner’s Court approved the formation of an Indigent Legal Services Work Group to develop a proposal for a public defender office and improved indigent defense in Travis County.
From Texas Fair Defense Project
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November 28, 2018
Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) helped secure $85 million in funding for child abuse prevention in a FY19 Appropriations bill containing the Defense and Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations bills.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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November 28, 2018
Today Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush announced the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has granted a six-month extension for Hurricane Harvey survivors still residing in federally funded manufactured housing units and travel trailers.
From Texas General Land Office
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November 28, 2018
Today Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush announced the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has granted a Temporary Housing Units (THU) Sales to Occupants program for Hurricane Harvey survivors still residing in federally funded manufactured housing units and travel trailers.
From Texas General Land Office
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November 28, 2018
Yesterday, Congressmen Henry Cuellar (TX-28) and Michael McCaul (TX-10) announced the passage of H.R. 1567, the United States-Mexico Economic Partnership Act, in the House of Representatives. This bipartisan legislation will bolster professional development and economic growth in both countries, including in the border region in Texas, with a focus on the energy, health, entrepreneurship, and education sectors.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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November 27, 2018
U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Justice announced $2,151,599.51 in federal grants to promote the health and safety of Texas law enforcement officers. The grants, awarded by the Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will be used to protect officers and improve overall public safety.
From Senator John Cornyn
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November 27, 2018
Today at a press conference, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed the migrant crisis at the border and the importance for any long-term solution to be bipartisan.
From Senator John Cornyn
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November 27, 2018
Bill filing for the upcoming 86th legislature, which gavels January 8th, opened Monday, November 12th. Representative Phil Stephenson wasted no time in filing House Bill 183, the intent of which is to shore up Texas Retirement System's insolvent pension fund. After serving two terms (4 years) on the House Pensions Committee (83rd, 84th), Stephenson became aware of the impending Texas public sector retirement crises, particularly with regards to TRS.
From Phil Stephenson Campaign
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November 27, 2018
After another Thanksgiving void of one of the most historic collegiate football rivalries, Rep. Larson decided to fill House Bill 412 to start the negotiating process between both institutions to bring back the fabled football game.
For over 100 years, Aggies and Longhorns gathered to honor a tradition of playing a world renowned rivalry football game on Thanksgiving Day. Songs, stories, family legacies and a century of Texas heritage were manifested from this historic gridiron battle.
From Representative Lyle Larson
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November 27, 2018
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today issued the following statement on the passing of Houston Texans late owner Bob McNair:
“As I watched the Texans earn their eighth win in a row last night on Monday Night Football, a franchise record, I was moved by the memorial in honor of my friend Bob McNair. I’ve known Bob for two decades.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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November 27, 2018
Leading an 11-state coalition, Attorney General Ken Paxton today filed a friend-of-the-court brief with the U.S. Supreme Court, asking it to review the case of two Oregon bakers and their constitutionally-protected conscience rights.
From Office of the Attorney General
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November 26, 2018
Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar today released the Tax Exemptions and Tax Incidence report, as required by state law.
The report estimates the value of each exemption, exclusion, discount, deduction, special accounting method, credit, refund and special appraisal available to payers of Texas’ sales, franchise, motor vehicle sales, oil production and gasoline taxes, as well as property taxes levied by school districts.
From Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
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November 26, 2018
Representative Dennis Bonnen (R-Angleton) today announced Gene Acuña will serve as Communications Director in the Office of the Speaker. Acuña, who has more than 30 years of experience working in communications, state government and broadcast journalism, joins Rep. Bonnen’s team from the Texas Education Agency, where he has served as Director of Communications for over six years.
From Representative Dennis Bonnen
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November 26, 2018
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton today warned Texans that fraudulent emails are being sent from people impersonating the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) targeting users with fake tax documents. These emails often use the subject line “tax transcripts” in an attempt to bait people into opening links and documents that contain destructive malware specifically designed to steal sensitive financial data.
From Office of the Attorney General
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November 26, 2018
As Baby Boomers reach retirement, a perfect storm is set to hit nursing homes as a surge in the number of aging Texans, known as the Silver Tsunami, is projected to affect long term care services across the state.
More than 12 percent of the Texas population is over 65, and that number is growing. According to the Texas Demographic Center, the over-65 population across the state is projected to increase by more than 262 percent by 2050.
From Texas Health Care Association
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November 26, 2018
Texas farmers and ranchers will address policy issues----such as eminent domain reform, transportation and food labeling---- at the 85th annual meeting of Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) Dec. 1-3 in Corpus Christi.
Members from the state's 206 county Farm Bureaus will work together to craft policy positions and prepare for the challenges agriculture faces.
From Texas Farm Bureau
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November 26, 2018
".... was first elected to District 145 in 2008. Since then she has briskly climbed the leadership ranks and last session was appointed chair of the Urban Affairs Committee. Consider it a sign of the trust that Speaker Joe Straus put in her ability to reach across the aisle and work with Republicans to pass important bills.
From Carol Alvarado Campaign
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November 26, 2018
Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and First Vice Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, today released the following statement:
“For generations, Republican and Democratic Administration have maintained an orderly, humane asylum process that respects international law while protecting the sovereignty and security of the United States.
From Representative Joaquin Castro
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November 20, 2018
Texas Nurses Association extends our deepest sympathies to the health care workers of Mercy Hospital & Medical Center in Chicago following the shooting on Nov. 19.
For many nurses, Monday’s shooting is just another example of the threat of violence they face every day while trying to care for their patients. According to coverage in the Chicago Tribune, Mercy Hospital had emergency plans in place and conducted an active shooter drill just last month.
From Texas Nurses Association
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November 20, 2018
Today Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush announced the locations of regional Homeowner Assistance Program offices in advance of the application release dates.
From Texas General Land Office
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November 20, 2018
Greenberg Traurig LLP’s has earned recognition as one of the nation’s best law firms in an annual listing published by U.S. News & World Report and The Best Lawyers in America.
The firm’s Texas offices in Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston achieved honors in 33 practice areas, with top-tier metropolitan rankings in 15 specific practices.
From Greenberg Traurig LLP
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November 20, 2018
Because of strong investment returns, the State Board of Education (SBOE) voted to increase the funding provided for school operations, instructional materials and technology to $2.212 billion in the 2020-2021 biennium, an increase of $172 million over its preliminary spending rate decision.
From Texas Education Agency
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November 20, 2018
State Rep. Carol Alvarado's campaign for State Senate, District 6 was endorsed yesterday by two key local progressive organizations -- the Houston GLBT Political Caucus and Area 5 Democrats.
From Carol Alvarado Campaign
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November 20, 2018
As Baby Boomers reach retirement, a perfect storm is set to hit nursing homes as a surge in the number of aging Texans, known as the Silver Tsunami, is projected to affect long term care services across the state.
More than 12 percent of the Texas population is over 65, and that number is growing. According to the Texas Demographic Center, the over-65 population across the state is projected to increase by more than 262 percent.by 2050.
From Texas Health Care Association
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November 20, 2018
Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) included funding and language to improve the health and welfare for our troops through medical assistance, wound care innovation, cancer research, and therapy to help facilitate recover after military service in a fiscal year 2019 appropriations bill.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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November 20, 2018
Walter Wilkerson, Jr., MD, of Conroe, Texas, was named the Texas Academy of Family Physicians 2018 Physician Emeritus during TAFP’s Annual Session and Primary Care Summit in Arlington on Nov. 10. Each year, patients and physicians nominate extraordinary, long-serving physicians and a panel of TAFP members chooses one to distinguish as physician emeritus.
From Texas Academy of Family Physicians
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November 20, 2018
After hearing testimony from Texas Values and other religious leaders in their community, the Laredo City Council made a motion and unanimously voted to “table” a so-called “anti-discrimination” ordinance which would have forced private businesses and contractors with the city to violate their sincerely held religious beliefs on same-sex “marriage” and gender identity.
From Texas Values
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November 20, 2018
Attorney General Ken Paxton today asked the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit to review and reverse a lower court’s decision blocking Texas from implementing laws requiring the humane disposition of fetal remains.
From Office of the Attorney General
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November 19, 2018
Texas Values will be testifying at the Laredo City Council tonight against a proposed so-called “anti-discrimination” ordinance which would force private businesses and contractors with the City of Laredo to violate their sincerely held religious beliefs on same-sex “marriage” and gender identity.
From Texas Values
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November 19, 2018
Mary Nguyen, MD, FAAFP, of Castroville, Texas, was sworn in as parliamentarian of the Texas Academy of Family Physicians during the 2018 Annual Session and Primary Care Summit in Galveston. Nguyen assumed her duties Nov. 10 at the TAFP Business and Awards Lunch.
Nguyen is a physician practicing at Medina Valley Family Practice.
From Texas Academy of Family Physicians
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November 19, 2018
After election results were canvassed in Medina County this morning and across the district over the previous days, Gina Ortiz Jones released the following statement:
“Our campaign was based on the belief that everyone is equal - equally deserving to be heard at the ballot box and served in our communities.
From Gina Ortiz Jones Campaign
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November 19, 2018
On November 20th at 12pm, Speaker Joe Straus will administer the oath of office for Representative-Elect James Talarico during a public swearing-in ceremony on the State House floor.
This event is open to the public. All family, friends, supporters, constituents, and members of the press are encouraged to attend.
From James Talarico Campaign
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November 19, 2018
Today Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush announced the second amendment to the Texas General Land Office's (GLO) $5.024 billion state Action Plan for Hurricane Harvey has been posted for a federally required 30-day public comment period. The amendment details an additional allocation of $652 million from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to benefit unmet housing recovery needs.
From Texas General Land Office
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November 19, 2018
State Representative Four Price of Amarillo, Texas was presented with the Patient Advocacy Award from the Texas Academy of Family Physicians. He received the award from TAFP President Janet Hurley, MD, at the organization’s Annual Session and Primary Care Summit in Arlington on Nov. 10.
From Texas Academy of Family Physicians
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 Copyright December 19, 2018, Harvey Kronberg, www.quorumreport.com, All rights are reserved
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