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July 27, 2017
Today, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick announced appointments to the Access to Justice Commission, the Council for Interstate Adult Offender Supervision, the Criminal Justice Legislative Oversight Committee, the Energy Council, the Jobs and Education for Texans Grant Program Advisory Board, the Joint Oversight Committee on Government Facilities, the Office of Small Business Assistance Advisory Task Force, and the Windstorm Insurance Legislative Oversight Board.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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July 27, 2017
The Mach 1 Group, a leading public affairs and strategic communications firm headquartered in Austin is pleased to announce the addition of a new senior strategist to its growing team.
From The Mach 1 Group
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July 27, 2017
Today U.S. Representative Will Hurd (R-TX) introduced the Secure Miles with All Resources and Technology (SMART) Act with Representatives Henry Cuellar (D-TX), David G. Valadao (R-CA), Steve Knight (R-CA), Steve Pearce (R-NM), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), and Keith Rothfus (R-PA) to ensure that the United States implements the most effective and fiscally-responsible strategy to achieve operational control of our southern border.
From Representative Will Hurd
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July 27, 2017
Yesterday, immigrants’ rights activists (including four DACA recipients) protested against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s recent attacks on Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) at the Texas Capitol, culminating with their arrest and detention in the Travis County Jail.
From Representative Eddie Rodriguez
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July 27, 2017
On Thursday, Representative Uresti laid out House Bill 117 before the House Transportation Committee, which would create a statewide "hands-free" driving law for hand-held device usage.
From Representative Tomas Uresti
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July 27, 2017
The Texas Senate, led by Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, has completed a legislative “tour de force” and passed eighteen major pieces of legislation is just three days. This is in addition to the sunset legislation that the Texas Senate previously passed, totaling 20 bills for the special session.
From Texas Senate Republican Caucus
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July 27, 2017
Rod Bordelon, an 11-time gubernatorial appointee, joins Granite Public Affairs where he will lead the firm’s insurance and regulatory affairs practice. Well respected throughout state government and industry, Rod brings more than 30 years’ experience working with consumers, regulators, legislators, and stakeholders.
From Granite Public Affairs
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July 27, 2017
The National Association of Counties annual conference in Columbus, Ohio (July 20-24) adopted two resolutions by Jefferson County Judge Jeff Branick. The first resolution urges Congress to maintain the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act’s (GOMESA) revenue sharing provisions that benefit oil producing states, counties and parishes in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama.
From Jefferson County
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July 27, 2017
Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) today spoke on the House floor to voice his opposition for H.R. 3219 that would add nearly $1.6 billion in federal taxpayer funds to begin construction of a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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July 27, 2017
When the Texas Senate recessed on Wednesday, July 26th, 18 bills (plus Senate Bill 20 and Senate Bill 60 - Sunset Bills) included on the Special Session proclamation by Gov. Greg Abbott had passed the Senate.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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July 26, 2017
The Texas Senate voted 19-12 today in favor of Senate Bill 6, also known as the Texas Annexation Right to Vote Act. The bill protects homeowners and businesses from forced annexation and makes the municipal annexation process in Texas more democratic, addressing one of Governor Abbott's 20 priority items.
From Senator Donna Campbell
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July 26, 2017
Today, Senator Sylvia Garcia (D-Houston) filed three bills to protect immigrants and immigrant families. One bill, Senate Bill (SB) 108, will prevent police from actively enforcing immigration laws in certain "safe places." The others, SB 109 and SB 110 will repeal SB 4, the "anti-sanctuary cities" bill, passed during the regular legislative session earlier this year.
From Senator Sylvia Garcia
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July 26, 2017
Two days of intense debate in the Texas Senate and record votes, led by members of the Texas Senate Republican Caucus, have seen eleven important pieces of legislation passed by the Senate and sent to the Texas House. These eleven bills are in addition to the sunset legislation, Senate Bills 20 and 60, that the Texas Senate has previously passed.
From Texas Senate Republican Caucus
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July 26, 2017
Today on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) invited his Democratic colleagues to join the effort to provide relief for the millions of Americans hurt by the Affordable Care Act.
From Senator John Cornyn
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July 26, 2017
Last night, the Texas Senate passed Senate Bill 19 (85-1) which transfers 405 million dollars out of Health & Human Services, Managed Care Organizations to pay for teacher pay raises and TRS Care.
The Bill Analysis for SB 19 states that the $405 million transferred out of MCO payments will be funded by deferring payments that are due in August 2019 to September 2019.
From Representative Poncho Nevarez
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July 26, 2017
Working after midnight, the Texas Senate voted 19-12 to pass Senate Bill 1, by Senator Bettencourt (R-Houston) to bring property tax reform and relief to hard pressed Texas home and business owners.
From Senator Paul Bettencourt
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July 26, 2017
Today, Representative Rodriguez filed House Bill 321 to increase state contributions to TRS-Care, the health insurance program our retired educators rely upon.
"We can no longer address the Teacher Retirement System through piecemeal funding each session—it is clear we need a long-term solution.
From Representative Justin Rodriguez
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July 26, 2017
Today, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) released the following statement:
“America’s armed forces need every patriotic person willing to serve and defend our country. The President’s policy announcement today is gratuitously discriminatory and will damage our national security.
From Representative Joaquin Castr0
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July 26, 2017
The Texas Senate has approved SB 19 by Texas State Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, providing additional compensation and benefits for Texas teachers. The bill, which passed by a 28-3 vote, next moves to the Texas House of Representatives for further consideration.
From Senator Jane Nelson
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July 26, 2017
Congressman Roger Williams (R – Austin), who is coach of the Republican Baseball Team and was injured at practice the morning of the shooting in June released the following statement on Wednesday, two days after the House passed a bill that will assist Capitol Police officers injured in baseball shooting:
From Representative Roger Williams
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July 26, 2017
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement following the passage of Senate Bill 19 on second reading with a strong bipartisan 28 to 3 vote. Final passage of the bill will be later this evening:
"Just before Special Session began, I announced it was my priority to direct more of our education funding to teachers.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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July 26, 2017
Despite slowdown tactics employed by Senate Democrats, the Texas Senate Republicans have continued their work to quickly pass the conservative legislative agenda outlined by Governor Abbott for the ongoing special legislative session. The Texas Senate today passed the Texas Privacy Act, Senate Bill 3, on second reading by a vote of 21-10.
From Texas Senate Republican Caucus
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July 26, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today delivered a floor speech to discuss the merits of the Consumer Freedom Amendment in the Senate’s Better Care Reconciliation Act of 2017. According to a report conducted by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Consumer Freedom Amendment expands coverage by more than two million individuals and reduces health insurance premiums by more than $7,000 per year.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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July 26, 2017
This evening the full Texas Senate passed the Texas Privacy Act (SB 3) by Senator Lois Kolkhorst, by a bipartisan vote, 21-10. Democrat Senator Eddie Lucio supported SB 3 along with all the Republicans. SB 3 protects privacy in showers, bathrooms, and locker rooms in public schools and government buildings.
From Texas Values
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July 26, 2017
With its preliminary approval on second reading of a “bathroom bill” this evening, the Texas Senate over the past two days has rushed through approval of bills discriminating against transgender people and making access to abortion care even harder for Texans.
From Texas Freedom Network
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July 25, 2017
Congressman Roger Williams (R – Austin), vice chairman on the Subcommittee on Monetary Policy and Trade on the House Committee on Financial Services, released the following statement Tuesday in response to the passage or H.R. Resolution 111, CRA Joint Resolution Disapproving the CFPB Anti-Arbitration Rule.
From Representative Roger Williams
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July 25, 2017
The Texas Moms Matter Act (HB 11) takes an innovative "bottom-up" versus "top-down" approach to solving the alarming women's health crisis. Beyond extending the statutory authority of the maternal mortality task force, the bill specifically directs that the task force prioritize their research towards African American mothers given that they are three time more likely to die than all other groups.
From Representative Shawn Thierry
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July 25, 2017
On Sunday morning in San Antonio, more than one hundred people were found in a locked trailer in sweltering heat. Eight were dead. Two more died at the hospital. According to authorities, dozens suffered dehydration, and many who were hospitalized will suffer long-term injury, including brain damage.
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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July 25, 2017
Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar reminds shoppers they can save money on certain items during the state's annual sales tax holiday. This year, the sales tax holiday is scheduled for Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 11-13.
From Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
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July 25, 2017
Commissioner of Education Mike Morath announced today that a public comment period for the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) consolidated state plan will begin Monday, July 31. The ESSA consolidated state plan is scheduled to be submitted by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to the U.S. Department of Education later this year.
From Texas Education Agency
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July 25, 2017
Today at a press conference, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed the open amendment process where Senators on both sides of the aisle can offer amendments on the health care legislation following today’s vote.
From Senator John Cornyn
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July 25, 2017
Yesterday, the House Public Education Committee heard House Bill 21, the school finance reform package authored by Chairman Dan Huberty (R-Humble). The proposal closely resembles Huberty’s HB 21 from the legislature’s regular session with tweaks—one being new facilities funding for charter schools.
From Texas Aspires
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July 25, 2017
The US Senate just narrowly voted to proceed with the legislative process toward gutting Medicaid and ripping health care away from millions of Americans.
From Center for Public Policy Priorities
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July 25, 2017
Answering the call of hard-pressed Texans from the panhandle, to Houston, to the I-35 corridor, from big towns and small towns, the Texas Senate yesterday preliminarily passed Senate Bill 1, by Senator Paul Bettencourt (R-Houston) to bring about property tax reform and relief for all Texas home and business owners.
From Senator Paul Bettencourt
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July 25, 2017
On Thursday, House Bill 117 by Representative Tomas Uresti will be heard before the House Transportation Committee. HB 117 would create a uniform standard across Texas to prohibit hand-held device use while driving.
From Representative Tomas Uresti
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July 25, 2017
The National Association for Gun Rights (NAGR) President Dudley Brown was in Austin on July 24th advocating for Constitutional Carry legislation on behalf of NAGR state affiliate, Texas Gun Rights (TXGR).
TXGR briefed its members during a press conference, praising the pro-Second Amendment leadership of State Rep. Jonathan Stickland, while calling on Governor Greg Abbott to add Constitutional Carry to his agenda for the special session.
From National Association For Gun Rights
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July 25, 2017
The Republican Members of the Texas House are committed to working diligently to successfully address the conservative legislative agenda put forth by Governor Abbott in this special session.
From Texas House Republican Caucus
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July 25, 2017
This Special Session Representative Phil Stephenson (House District 85) has refiled the Pension Revenue Enhancement Strategy (House Bill 101) which authorizes the governing boards of all 93 prefunded pension plans to conduct a study as to its feasibility.
From Representative Phil Stephenson
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July 25, 2017
Attorney General Ken Paxton yesterday joined West Virginia’s amicus brief in Robinson v. United States along with Indiana, Michigan and Utah in the United States Supreme Court to protect against unjustified frisk searches occurring on the suspicion that a citizen is armed.
From Office of the Attorney General
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July 25, 2017
Today, the Texas House of Representatives passed HB 1 on third reading by a vote of 147-0. The legislation will keep several state agencies (including the Texas Medical Board) in operation through the interim so the sunset process can be revisited in the 86th Legislative Session.
From Representative Eddie Rodriguez
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July 25, 2017
As the Texas Senate gavels today, it is expected to approve legislation to protect privacy, it is important to consider the popular support for the bill across Texas.
SB 3, authored by Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, keeps men out of girls' showers, restrooms, and locker rooms in schools and government buildings.
From Texas Values
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July 25, 2017
Senator Borris Miles continues his commitment to women's health by successfully adding an amendment to SB 17 dealing with the opioid epidemic and maternal mortality.
From Senator Borris Miles
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July 24, 2017
Eleven Austin-area physicians have been selected for leadership positions in the Texas Medical Association (TMA). TMA held elections and appointments in conjunction with its TexMed conference and expo, held this year in Houston.
From Texas Medical Association
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July 24, 2017
U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) and U.S. Congressmen John Carter (TX-31), Michael McCaul (TX-10), and Filemon Vela (TX-34) today introduced bills to honor the fallen U.S. Border Patrol Agent Javier Vega, Jr. for his service by renaming the Border Patrol checkpoint where he was assigned, along U.S. Highway 77 North in Sarita, Texas, after him.
From Senator John Cornyn
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July 24, 2017
The Texas Alliance for Life (TAL) Executive Director, Joe Pojman, Ph.D., and the TAL Board of Directors announce the hiring of Melissa Duncan as the new Director of Communications.
"Continuing our commitment to pro-life issues across Texas we strongly believe Melissa is a great asset to TAL. With years of experience and respect, we are eager to have her join our team and expand our work towards the mission of changing hearts and saving lives," said Dr. Pojman.
From Texas Alliance for Life
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July 24, 2017
Yesterday afternoon, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick posted a statement on his Facebook page blaming “sanctuary cities” for the tragic deaths of several people in an apparent human trafficking operation this weekend.
From Representative Eddie Rodriguez
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July 24, 2017
Last week, the Texas Legislature convened in Austin for a special session called by Governor Abbott to address a series of pressing issues facing the state, including property tax reform.
From Representative Andrew Murr
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July 24, 2017
The Catholic Bishops of Texas join Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller, MSpS, in offering their sincerest condolences to the families of the migrants who were tragically killed as human smuggling or trafficking victims from heat exhaustion and suffocation in San Antonio overnight.
From Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops
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July 24, 2017
In the wake of the tragic deaths of 10 immigrants whose bodies were discovered over the weekend in an overheated truck in San Antonio, Texas AFL-CIO President John Patrick issued the following statement:
From Texas AFL-CIO
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July 24, 2017
Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) released the following statement after several immigrants were found dead in a truck at a San Antonio Walmart:
“These deaths are tragic and avoidable. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their loved ones.
From Representative Joaquin Castro
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July 24, 2017
Texas Senate Republicans continued their work to pass Governor Abbott’s complete conservative special session legislative agenda by hearing multiple bills today. The Senate Committee on Business and Commerce, the Select Committee on Government Reform, and the Finance Committee address pro-life issues, limiting the growth in property tax bills, and fighting for Texas teachers.
From Texas Senate Republican Caucus
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July 24, 2017
Taxpayers all over Texas turned out to testify in favor of property tax reform and relief today. From a taxpayer in the panhandle who came to say “let the people vote!” to a gentleman from Collin County who said, “trust the people to vote”, the Senate Committee on Government Reform took public testimony today on Senate Bill 1, and other legislation, regarding property tax reform and relief in Texas.
From Senator Paul Bettencourt
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July 24, 2017
The Senate Finance Committee today approved SB 19 by Texas State Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, providing pay and benefit increases for Texas teachers. The legislation will next come before the full Senate for consideration.
From Senator Jane Nelson
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July 24, 2017
The Texas Senate Committee on State Affairs approved SB 3, a bill to protect privacy in showers, restrooms, and locker rooms in schools and government buildings, by a bipartisan vote of 8-1 late Friday night. Democratic Sen. Eddie Lucio voted with Republicans and Sen. Judith Zaffirini voted no.
From Texas Values
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July 24, 2017
On Friday, the Texas Senate will hold a committee hearing on SB 3, filed by Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, to keep men out of girls’ bathrooms. Texas Values is calling on its supporters and volunteers to give testimony and show support for the bill.
From Texas Values
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July 24, 2017
State Representative Armando Walle (D-Houston) filed key legislation this week to address the state’s ongoing maternal mortality crisis.
“The issue of rising maternal mortality rates in Texas and its disproportionate impact among African-American mothers is not recent,” Rep. Walle said.
From Representative Armando Walle
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July 24, 2017
Austin City Council Members Leslie Pool and Sabino “Pio” Renteria joined Democratic Congressional Candidate Elliott McFadden (TX-21) in calling for the Trump administration to roll back proposed budget cuts to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
From Elliott McFadden Campaign
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July 21, 2017
Texas Senate Republicans continued their work to pass conservative solutions to Texas’ challenges in the special session by conducting multiple public hearings throughout the day on several of Governor Abbott’s legislative priorities today.
From Texas Senate Republican Caucus
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July 21, 2017
Yesterday, Senator Konni Burton (R-Colleyville) filed SJR 1, a constitutional amendment that would dedicate money from the state lottery to education and require fifty-percent of these funds to be used to provide salary increases and bonuses for experienced classroom teachers beginning with the 2020 fiscal year.
From Senator Konni Burton
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July 21, 2017
This just in: Texas Values renews our support this special session for protecting privacy in our restrooms, showers, and locker rooms.
The Texas Senate State Affairs Committee will hold a hearing on the Texas Privacy Act, SB 3, today(July 21) starting at 9 a.m. Texas Values and others will be available for commentary at the hearing or by phone.
From Texas Values
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July 20, 2017
Today Planned Parenthood and the Center for Reproductive Rights filed a lawsuit in federal district court to challenge the dismemberment ban in SB 8, passed by the Texas Legislature during the regular session that ended in May. The law is set to go into effect on September 1, 2017.
From Texas Alliance for Life
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July 20, 2017
From Representative Rene Oliveira
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July 20, 2017
The Catholic bishops of Texas expressed disappointment in Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s movement to terminate the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, forcing 117,000 young people to be deported from the United States.
From Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops
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July 20, 2017
The Texas Senate unanimously passed the Texas Medical Board’s, and other related agencies, sunset bills, SB 20 and SB 60, in a midnight session early this morning. The bill’s author, Sen. Van Taylor (R- Plano), who also serves as the Treasurer of the Senate Republican Caucus said, “This is the fastest bill I have ever passed in my entire legislative career.”
From Texas Senate Republican Caucus
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July 20, 2017
Today, State Representative Mary González filed House Bill 258 to fix our broken school finance system. Governor Greg Abbott uses the lives of schoolchildren for political posturing without actually addressing school finance.
From Representative Mary Gonzalez
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July 20, 2017
State Representative Matt Shaheen filed H.B. 220, creating relief for millions of Texans suffering from high property taxes. "This week I filed H.B. 220, which restricts local governments from substantially raising your property taxes without voter approval," said Shaheen.
From Representative Matt Shaheen
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July 20, 2017
On Friday, the Texas Senate will hold a committee hearing on SB 3, filed by Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, to keep men out of girls’ bathrooms. Texas Values is calling on its supporters and volunteers to give testimony and show support for the bill.
From Texas Values
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July 20, 2017
"Governor Abbott has called for a bill extending Additional State Aid for Tax Reduction (ASATR); I commend the Governor for doing this and I will work hard with his team, and my colleagues in both the House and Senate to enact passage. Early in the regular session, I introduced HB 308 which would have provided critical funding relief for our rural schools; while that bill did not succeed, the Governor's direct support of ASATR is good news as the legislature moves forward in the next several weeks.
From Representative Dustin Burrows
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July 20, 2017
Vice Chairman of the Sunset Advisory Commission, State Senator Van Taylor released the below statement on the Senate's unanimous passage of S.B. 20 and S.B. 60, the Sunset safety net bills:
From Senator Van Taylor
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July 20, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today introduced former Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison of Texas at her confirmation hearing to be the U.S. Ambassador to NATO. There, before the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, Sen. Cruz highlighted Sen. Hutchison’s accomplishments in her career of public service, and her extraordinary qualifications.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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July 20, 2017
Today, Joanna Cattanach, a former journalist and now educator and community advocate, announced her campaign to represent Texas's 108th State House District. She is running against Representative Morgan Meyer, a two-term Republican incumbent.
From Joanna Cattanach Campaign
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July 20, 2017
Legacy Community Health, one of Texas’ largest community health systems, released a web video featuring three of its physicians discussing the higher risk of suicide among transgender people. The spot, titled “An Uncomfortable Subject,” comes on the eve of tomorrow’s public hearing on “bathroom bills” in the Texas Senate.
From Legacy Community Health
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July 20, 2017
U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) introduced former Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX), President Trump’s choice to be U.S. Ambassador to the National Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), at today’s confirmation hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
From Senator John Cornyn
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July 20, 2017
State Sen. José Rodríguez early Thursday "tagged" 11 bills. The tag is a right any member of the Senate has to request application of Senate Rule 11.19, which states that a Senator "shall receive at least 48 hours advance written notice of the time and place set for a public hearing on a specific bill."
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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July 20, 2017
Texas State Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, today filed SB 19, providing pay and benefit increases for Texas teachers.
"This is the most important investment we can make in the future of our state,” Senator Nelson, a former sixth-grade teacher, said.
From Senator Jane Nelson
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July 19, 2017
According to a new report conducted by the Department of Health and Human Services, the Consumer Freedom amendment proposed by U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) to the Senate's Better Care Reconciliation Act expands coverage by more than two million individuals, and reduces health insurance premiums by more than $7,000 per year.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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July 19, 2017
Congressman Roger Williams (R – Austin) took to the House floor on Wednesday to speak during the rule debate on H.R. 2910, the Promoting Interagency Coordination for Review of Natural Gas Pipelines Act.
From Representative Roger Williams
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July 19, 2017
Texas State Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, was named Women's Health Champion by the Texas Women's Healthcare Coalition for her continued leadership on preventive health services for women. This is the third session in a row Senator Nelson has received this recognition.
From Senator Jane Nelson
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July 19, 2017
Attorney General Ken Paxton today voiced his disappointment after a federal judge sided with a group of Texas inmates who sued the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) over summer heat conditions at the Wallace Pack Unit northwest of Houston.
From Office of the Attorney General
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July 19, 2017
Today, Sen. Konni Burton (R-Colleyville) released the following statement on U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions' new policies regarding civil asset forfeiture:
"I am extremely disappointed in the decision by Attorney General Jeff Sessions to rescind certain policies implemented by his predecessors which limited the federal scope and use of civil asset forfeiture.
From Senator Konni Burton
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July 19, 2017
Yesterday, Senator Sylvia Garcia (D-Houston) filed legislation that will ensure that Texas is an inclusive state that works for all people, regardless of gender identity. " All Texans want to go to the bathroom in peace, including transgender people."
From Senator Sylvia Garcia
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July 19, 2017
In a series of 20 to 11 party line votes, the Texas Senate suspended the rules to allow the Legislature’s sunset bills, SB 20 and SB 60 to be heard in the Business and Commerce Committee, chaired by Senator Hancock (R-North Richland Hills). The bills were then voted out unanimously back the Texas Senate for second reading today at 1 PM.
From Texas Senate Republican Caucus
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July 19, 2017
U.S. Rep. Brian Babin (TX-36), a member of the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and the Highways and Transit Subcommittee, today announced that he has introduced H.R. 3282, the ELD Extension Act of 2017, legislation that would provide for an additional two year delay before mandatory implementation of Electronic Logging Devices (ELD) on all American freight trucks.
From Representative Brian Babin
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July 19, 2017
Reporting over $450,000 raised in the second fundraising quarter, Democratic challenger Alex Triantaphyllis became one of the top ten fundraising House challengers in the country. Among Democratic House challengers, he is in the top five fundraisers nationally.
From Alex Triantaphyllis Campaign
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July 19, 2017
On Tuesday July 18th, as campaign finance reports were released, State Representative Briscoe Cain exceeded early fundraising goals , raising $168,446.13 in twelve days, making the freshman representative the second-largest GOP fundraiser in the House, second only to Speaker Straus.
From Briscoe Cain Campaign
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July 19, 2017
Today, State Representative Tan Parker filed House Bill 208 during the 85th Special Legislative Session. House Bill 208 limits the growth in state spending to no more than the growth of population and inflation. This legislation is one of the 20 items that Governor Greg Abbott proclaimed will be added to the special session agenda.
From Representative Tan Parker
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July 18, 2017
Chairman Dan Huberty today filed several bills, reflecting his legislative priorities for the special session. Each of these bills was a priority for Huberty during the regular session, and he is grateful to have the opportunity to file this legislation again.
From Representative Dan Huberty
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July 18, 2017
Responding to overwhelming support for property tax reform and relief, Senator Bettencourt filed Senate Bill 1, which was joint authored by Senators Creighton, Hancock, and V. Taylor, for the special session of the 85th Texas Legislature.
From Senator Paul Bettencourt
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July 18, 2017
Today, State Representative Travis Clardy filed HB 198 which increases teacher pay and gives greater flexibility to administrators in order to recruit and retain the best teachers in Texas public schools.
“Every Texas student deserves the opportunity for a quality education,” said Rep. Clardy. “That means we must have motivated teachers joining the ranks of the many outstanding professionals we have in Texas classrooms today.
From Representative Travis Clardy
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July 18, 2017
On the opening day of the legislative special session, State Senator Donna Campbell filed Senate Bill 6, also known as the Texas Annexation Right to Vote Act. The bill protects homeowners and businesses from forced annexation and proposes needed reforms to the municipal annexation process in Texas, addressing one of Governor Abbott's 20 priority items.
From Senator Donna Campbell
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July 18, 2017
Today, the 85th Texas Legislature met in Austin for the opening day of the first Special Session called by Governor Greg Abbott.
State Representative Eddie Rodriguez (D-Austin) has represented House District 51 in the Texas House of Representatives since 2003.
From Representative Eddie Rodriguez
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July 18, 2017
State Sen. José Rodríguez today "tagged" Senate Bill 20, the Sunset bill, which extended the expiration date for the Texas Medical Board and four other state agencies by two years from Sept. 1, 2017 to Sept. 1, 2019. The tag is a right any member of the Senate has to request application of Senate Rule 11.19, which states that a Senator "shall receive at least 48 hours advance written notice of the time and place set for a public hearing on a specific bill."
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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July 18, 2017
This morning Senator Garcia resisted against efforts by Senate leadership to hear legislation without sufficient notice or a public hearing.
"We are here in service of the people of Texas. To vote to do the people's business without the people's input is wrong and un-Texan.
From Senator Sylvia Garcia
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July 18, 2017
On the opening day of the Legislative Special Session, Rep. Helen Giddings (Dallas) commemorated Nelson Mandela International Day of Service by passing House Resolution 34. Each year, on July 18th, the world celebrates the birth of Nelson Mandela by devoting 67 minutes to helping others. This resolution honors President Mandela for his many contributions to peace and freedom around the world.
From Representative Helen Giddings
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July 18, 2017
Upon receiving their property tax notices Texas homeowners seem ready to channel Peter Finch in the classic movie "Network," by throwing open their windows and yelling, "I'm as mad as hell, and I'm not going to take this anymore!" But at whom should that ire be directed?
From Representative Donna Howard
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July 18, 2017
The mayors of 18 of the state’s largest cities have requested a meeting with Gov. Greg Abbott to discuss the governor’s concerns about cities and “how we can work together to ensure a productive partnership for Texas.”
From Texas Municipal League
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July 18, 2017
State Representative Trent Ashby (R-Lufkin) filed two bills for consideration on the first day of the recently convened special legislative session.
The first, House Bill 20, would appropriate $150 million from the Economic Stabilization Fund (commonly referred to as the Rainy Day Fund) to decrease health insurance premiums and deductibles for retired educators under the age of 65 who participate in TRS-Care.
From Representative Trent Ashby
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July 18, 2017
State Representative Eric Johnson (D-Dallas) reported $309,908.44 cash on hand on his semiannual campaign finance report due yesterday, covering the period from January 1, 2017 through June 30, 2017.
From Representative Eric Johnson
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July 18, 2017
On Monday, July 17, 2017, Governor Gregg Abbott announced that the federal government would begin funding certain border security operations. In a press release, the Governor extended his gratitude to the federal government and Congressional appropriators for "stepping up" in providing additional resources for border security.
From Representative Cesar Blanco
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July 17, 2017
On the eve of the Special Session, Texas business leaders and tourism officials gathered at the State Capitol to urge lawmakers to once again reject efforts to pass a bathroom bill. Leaders from Texas Welcomes All and Keep Texas Open for Business said bathroom bills are unnecessary and are already bringing significant damage to the Texas economy and brand.
From Texas Welcomes All
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July 17, 2017
Senator Lois W. Kolkhorst (R-Brenham) has authored Senate Bill 17 to extend the Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Task Force and other policies to improve maternal health in Texas. This legislation is one of 20 items that Governor Greg Abbott previously announced to be addressed on the special session agenda.
From Senator Lois Kolkhorst
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July 17, 2017
This afternoon, Senator Charles Schwertner, MD (R-Georgetown) filed Senate Bill 4, legislation to prohibit government entities in Texas from providing funding or other material support to an abortion provider or affiliate. The First Called Session of the 85th Legislature begins this Tuesday and will last no more than 30 days.
From Senator Charles Schwertner
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July 17, 2017
Congressmen Joaquin Castro (TX-20) and Lloyd Doggett (TX-35) sent a letter to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Thomas Price requesting an explanation for the agency’s decision to cut short the grant awards for the Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program (TPPP).
From Representative Joaquin Castro
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July 17, 2017
Today on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed the updates and revisions made to the Senate Republican plan to reform health care after additional input by Members.
From Senator John Cornyn
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July 17, 2017
Sen. José Rodríguez has filed a number of bills for the upcoming Special Session, which begins on Tuesday. The bills filed address the most important issue that should be central to the Special Session, school finance, as well as ensuring that the state does not sanction discrimination against LGBTQ Texans, and providing greater opportunity for mail-in ballot voting while ensuring ballot integrity.
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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July 17, 2017
Texas AFT President Louis Malfaro commented today on the rally for public education at the state Capitol:
Today’s rally for public education is yet another clear sign that Texans are fed up with the destructive agenda being pushed by some politicians in the special session.
From Texas AFT
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July 17, 2017
While some lawmakers in Austin are pushing the envelope on providing property tax relief to Texas residents and businesses, local municipalities are fighting tooth and nail to keep money in their pockets and keep with the status quo.
From Houston Building Owners and Managers Association
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July 17, 2017
On Tuesday, Texans from all over the state will be eager to again defend the Texas Privacy Act.
Texas Values, along with likeminded partners, have been busy briefing people across the state on this important issue with well-attended stops in Midland, Houston, Fort Worth, and Tyler.
From Texas Values
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July 17, 2017
Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) released the following statement regarding the Texas Legislature’s 2017 special session:
“Governor Abbott and Lt. Governor Patrick are forcing a special session and spending millions of taxpayer dollars to dictate bathroom policy.
From Representative Joaquin Castro
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July 17, 2017
The voice of the Texas GOP majority is loud and clear when it comes to privacy legislation. They want to maintain separate restrooms, locker rooms, and shower facilities for men and women and boys and girls and they don’t care if the media thinks it is politically incorrect.
From Dan Patrick Campaign
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July 17, 2017
On the heels of an extremely successful fundraising period, Senator Konni Burton (R-Colleyville) today announced the strong support of local county and state legislative leaders in her 2018 campaign for reelection.
From Konni Burton Campaign
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July 14, 2017
Today, U.S. Representative Will Hurd joined his colleagues in the House of Representatives in support of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2018, which determines funding levels and priorities for our nation’s common defense.
From Representative Will Hurd
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July 14, 2017
Democratic candidate and nonprofit leader Alex Triantaphyllis released the following statement in response to the newest iteration of the Republican healthcare repeal bill in the U.S. Senate:
From Alex Triantaphyllis Campaign
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July 14, 2017
Would you like to help establish long-term goals for the Texas public schools? The State Board of Education is now accepting nominations from those who would like to serve on a Long-Range Plan Steering Committee.
From Texas Education Agency
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July 14, 2017
Congressman Roger Williams (R – Austin), who represents Fort Hood, one of the largest United States military installations in the world, released the following statement Friday after the passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2018 (FY18).
From Representative Roger Williams
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July 14, 2017
"This latest version of the Senate Republicans’ healthcare bill is proof that Republicans like Congressman John Culberson aren’t serious about protecting Americans’ access to health care. I’d like Congressman Culberson to sit down with my cancer patients and explain why he voted for a bill that would kick them off their insurance in order to give a massive tax break to the wealthy.
From Jason Westin Campaign
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July 14, 2017
Today, July 13, 2017 marks two years since Ms. Sandra Bland’s tragic death in the Waller County jail. Representative Garnet F. Coleman (D-Houston) released the following statement:
From Representative Garnet Coleman
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July 14, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today announced his intention to introduce companion legislation to U.S. Rep. Martha McSally’s (R-Ariz.) bill to eliminate a healthcare exemption for members of Congress that was required to be included in the Senate’s health care bill due to procedural requirements under the reconciliation process.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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July 13, 2017
Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28), Texas Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz (R-TX), and Congressmen Will Hurd (TX-23) and Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) met with U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer in response to a letter from Senator Corny and Congressman Cuellar requesting a meeting with Members of Congress representing constituencies along the U.S.-Mexico border.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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July 13, 2017
Ahead of Texas lawmakers’ return to the Capitol to take up Governor Greg Abbott’s extreme anti-abortion, special session agenda, a broad coalition of reproductive health, rights, and justice groups from across the state — the Trust. Respect. Access. coalition — denounce his dangerous anti-abortion priorities.
From Texas Reproductive Rights & Justice Coalition
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July 13, 2017
“It’s encouraging to see the Lieutenant Governor’s newfound focus on school finance reform. Nothing could be more important in this special session than beginning to fix our school finance system so that we improve education, keep more local dollars in local schools, and provide real property tax relief, just as the House overwhelmingly approved in the regular session.”
From Speaker Joe Straus
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July 13, 2017
Texas AFT President Louis Malfaro commented today on Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick’s proposals on increased school funding and teacher pay:
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick’s numbers just didn’t add up to a serious school-finance plan today as he threw out a flurry of proposals for increased teacher compensation without offering any new state money to pay for them.
From Texas American Federation of Teachers
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July 13, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) released the following statement regarding the revised version of the Better Care Reconciliation Act, introduced today by the U.S. Senate:
From Representative Ted Cruz
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July 13, 2017
Today, Congressman Cuellar (TX-28) announced the inclusion of funding for 65 new immigration judges and support staff he helped secure in the Fiscal Year 2018 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies (CJS) Appropriations bill.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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July 13, 2017
The Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) Board of Trustees appointed Jerry Albright today as the agency’s new chief investment officer (CIO). The announcement follows last month’s decision by former TRS CIO Thomas “Britt” Harris to accept an offer to serve as chief executive officer for The University of Texas Investment Management Company (UTIMCO).
From Teacher Retirement System of Texas
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July 13, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Space, Science and Competitiveness, participated in the third of a series of planned hearings to explore the reopening of the American frontier in space.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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July 12, 2017
Senator Ted Cruz of Texas is getting a lot of attention for an amendment he's floating for the Senate’s health care repeal and Medicaid cut bill.
Let's be clear -- his amendment is a terrible idea that makes a bad bill worse.
From Center for Public Policy Priorities
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July 12, 2017
David Hall – who has led Texas RioGrande Legal Aid (TRLA) from its early days defending South Texas farm workers with a handful of attorneys through its transformation into the nation’s third largest legal aid provider, serving 25,000 people annually – has announced his retirement.
From Texas Rio-Grande Legal Aid
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July 12, 2017
Michael F. Cannon, director of health policy studies for the Cato institute, recently wrote an op-ed for The Hill outlining the need to include U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz’s (R-Texas) Consumer Freedom Amendment currently under consideration in the Senate’s Better Health Care Act legislation, citing it would "make access to healthcare more secure for patients who develop expensive conditions” and "would instantly stabilize the individual market."
From Senator Ted Cruz
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July 12, 2017
Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar announced today he will send cities, counties, transit systems and special purpose taxing districts $679.9 million in local sales tax allocations for July, 9 percent more than in July 2016.
From Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
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July 12, 2017
On Monday Senator Bob Hall filed Senate Bill (SB) 14 to protect the private property rights of landowners from political subdivision rules, regulations, and ordinances that interfere with a private property owner's right to plant, transplant, and remove, trees and vegetation from their own property.
From Senator Bob Hall
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July 12, 2017
Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28) announced the inclusion of $91.5 million which he helped secure in the Fiscal Year 2018 Agriculture Appropriations bill for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Cattle Health Program; funding that is used in part to help fight the spread of cattle fever ticks.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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July 12, 2017
Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28) announced the inclusion of more than $116 million in federal funds he helped secure in the Fiscal Year 2018 Agriculture Appropriations bill to help fight Citrus Greening Disease and fruit flies.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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July 12, 2017
State Representative Jeff Leach is now accepting applications for the Texas Armed Services Scholarship Program (TASSP). Known as TASSP, this prestigious program offers a conditional scholarship for a hard-working Texas student that is dedicated to higher education and military service.
From Representative Jeff Leach
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July 12, 2017
Today, Representative Morgan Meyer (R-Dallas) announced that he will seek re-election to his third term in the Texas House of Representatives representing District 108, looking to build upon a successful, effective legislative session in 2017.
From Morgan Meyer Campaign
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July 12, 2017
Today on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) addressed the ongoing effort to replace the failed Affordable Care Act (ACA) with real health care reform.
From Senator John Cornyn
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July 11, 2017
Mexico’s Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Luis Videgaray, met with Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) today in Washington to discuss negotiations for the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Congressman Cuellar has known both Secretary Videgaray and President Enrique Peña Nieto personally for many years.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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July 11, 2017
U.S. Representative Will Hurd is pleased to announce that the House Energy and Water Appropriations Bill includes $10 million in federal reimbursement for the Mission Reach Project in Bexar County through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Fiscal Year 2018 Work Plan.
From Representative Will Hurd
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July 11, 2017
On Monday, Representative Ron Simmons filed House Bills 46, 50, 52, and 58 relating to Governor Greg Abbott's call for legislation dealing with educational choice for the families of children with special needs and privacy for Texans during the first called special session, set to begin July 18.
From Representative Ron Simmons
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July 11, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) issued the following statement regarding the nomination of former Texas Comptroller Susan Combs to be assistant secretary for policy, management and budget at the U.S. Department of Interior:
From Senator Ted Cruz
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July 11, 2017
U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement after President Trump announced his intention to nominate former Texas Comptroller Susan Combs to be Assistant Secretary of Policy Management and Budget at the U.S. Department of Interior:
From Senator John Cornyn
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July 11, 2017
Today, Representative Drew Darby filed nine bills that address the Teacher Retirement System, teacher pay, property taxes and others to be debated during the upcoming Special Session of the Texas Legislature.
From Representative Drew Darby
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July 10, 2017
State Senator Van Taylor today released the below statement on filing S.B. 20, the Sunset Scheduling bill:
“I again want to applaud Governor Greg Abbott on his bold call for the Legislature to address meaningful conservative reforms during the upcoming special session,” stated Taylor.
From Senator Van Taylor
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July 10, 2017
The Harris County Commissioners Court is set to consider joining the lawsuit against Senate Bill 4 at their meeting tomorrow, July 11th at 10am. Senators John Whitmire, Sylvia R. Garcia and Borris Miles issued a joint letter urging commissioners to vote in favor of joining with counties and municipalities across Texas in suing the State of Texas over the controversial legislation.
From Senator Sylvia Garcia
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July 10, 2017
Today on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed the ongoing effort to replace Obamacare with real health care reform. Excerpts of Sen. Cornyn’s remarks are below, and video of his remarks can be found here.
From Senator John Cornyn
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July 10, 2017
Texas State Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, today filed SB 21 reforming the property tax appraisal process.
“Homeowners in Texas are shouldering a significant share of the tax burden. We need to reduce this burden and ensure that taxpayers are treated fairly in the appraisal process.
From Senator Jane Nelson
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July 10, 2017
Senator Borris L. Miles renews his commitment to women's health and files legislation to combat the problem of maternal mortality for the special session.
"During the 85th Legislative Session, I successfully passed SB 790 to extend the Women's Health Advisory Committee for another two years and SB 1599 to improve maternal mortality reporting.
From Senator Borris Miles
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July 10, 2017
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following Gov. Greg Abbott’s proclamation for a Special Session beginning with legislation to extend the expiration dates for several health related agencies. The Special Session will begin on July 18, 2017:
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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July 10, 2017
On Monday, July 10 hundreds of local leaders announced their support for Catherine Mauzy for 459th Civil District Judge. The Texas Legislature created the new 459th Civil District Court this past legislative session. Mauzy, who currently runs a successful private family law firm and is board certified in family law, filed for the office last week and named Bev Reeves, local attorney and Democratic activist, her treasurer.
From Catherine Mauzy Campaign
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July 7, 2017
A majority of Texas students were successful in completing the five State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR®) end-of-course exams, according to statewide results released today by the Texas Education Agency. The results reflect passing rates for the spring 2017 administration of STAAR.
From Texas Education Agency
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July 7, 2017
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) today released results for the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR®) reading and mathematics tests in grades 3, 4, 6, and 7; writing tests in grades 4 and 7; science tests in grades 5 and 8; and the social studies test in grade 8.
From Texas Education Agency
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July 7, 2017
Last night, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) participated in the second of a series of ‘Defend & Reform’ town halls with Concerned Veterans for America (CVA) in Austin. There, along with Director of Policy Dan Caldwell, Sen. Cruz discussed his efforts on behalf of veterans, including implementing VA accountability, expanding veteran choice and modernizing the VA’s IT infrastructure.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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July 7, 2017
Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and Congressman Brendan Boyle (PA-13), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement after meeting with U.S. diplomats and European officials in Berlin and Hamburg, Germany:
From Representative Joaquin Castro
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July 7, 2017
Attorney General Ken Paxton today lauded a federal court decision to dismiss a complaint by three professors at the University of Texas at Austin regarding Senate Bill 11, the campus carry law. In their lawsuit, the professors claimed that the legislation passed by the Texas Legislature would have a “chilling effect” and stifle class discussion in their courses.
From Office of the Attorney General
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July 7, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) joined WOAI’s Joe Pags for a live in-studio interview, where he discussed his work on behalf of veterans, the town hall tour across the state with Concerned Veterans for America, and his efforts on Obamacare repeal and replace.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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July 7, 2017
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today in honor of all Texas law enforcement officers killed in the line-of-duty:
"July 7 marks the solemn anniversary of the tragic loss of five law enforcement officers in Dallas. That was a dark day for Texas and for all America.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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July 7, 2017
Elliott McFadden, Democratic candidate for Congress in Texas' 21st District, spoke today at a noon rally at Senator John Cornyn's office in downtown Austin in support of universal healthcare. He also called for the Senator to vote NO on the Republican Senate Healthcare bill.
From Elliott McFadden Campaign
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July 6, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today visited and toured USAA headquarters in San Antonio, where he had lunch and took questions from about 300 USAA employees. His visit is part of a week-long tour across Texas where he is meeting with various veterans groups to hear their ideas and concerns.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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July 6, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today joined KTSA’s Trey Ware for a live, in-studio interview at the Alamo Lounge. While in Military City, USA, Sen. Cruz appeared on several other Texas radio shows, including 660 AM The Answer’s The Wells Report, and Mike Gallagher show.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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July 6, 2017
Last night, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) participated in the first of a series of ‘Defend & Reform’ town halls with Concerned Veterans for America (CVA) in McKinney. There, along with CVA Director of Policy Dan Caldwell, Sen. Cruz discussed his efforts on behalf of veterans with attendees.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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July 5, 2017
Today at the World Trade Bridge, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) joined U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials, the Office of U.S. Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX), the City of Laredo, the State of Texas, and representatives of the international trade community to announce a $100 million plan to increase technology and modernize Laredo’s World Trade Bridge and make it a world class cargo facility.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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July 5, 2017
This morning, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) joined local Texas radio hosts to discuss his work on behalf of veterans, including the VA Information Technology Restructuring Act he introduced last week to modernize the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) IT infrastructure, among other topics, including his efforts on health care reform to advance commonsense measures that lower health insurance premiums and provide more consumer choice and freedom.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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July 5, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today attended a roundtable discussion with members of the Veterans Center of North Texas. There, Sen. Cruz participated in a Q&A with attendees and shared his efforts on behalf of veterans, including the VA Information Technology Restructuring Act, which he introduced last week.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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July 5, 2017
The temperature in a motor vehicle can rise quickly during the summer, reaching temperatures up to 130 degrees within an hour. Unfortunately, with our intense heat, Texas leads the nation in hot car deaths with 55 children tragically passing since 2010. This year there have been a number of high profile cases where children who were stuck in hot motor vehicles passed away from heat stroke.
From Senator Carlos Uresti
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July 5, 2017
2016 wind and hail loss information released last week by the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) show that homeowner losses from hail in Texas were the highest annual losses ever recorded, as they exceeded $5 billion. Combined wind damage and hail losses to residential property also set a record at nearly $6 billion.
From Insurance Council of Texas
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July 3, 2017
U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following open letter to Texans in advance of the 4th of July holiday:
Dear Fellow Texans,
From Senator John Cornyn
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June 30, 2017
Since fiscal 2013, the Comptroller’s office has returned more than $41 million in unpaid life insurance benefits to its rightful owners. We examine the issue of life insurance — and an important new Texas law affecting it — in the latest issue of Fiscal Notes.
From Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts
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June 30, 2017
State Senator José Rodríguez released a statement today in response a ruling by the Texas Supreme Court that would allow for a challenge to a decision by the City of Houston to extend benefits to same-sex couples.
From Senator Jose Rodriguez
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June 30, 2017
This week, Governor Abbott officially recognized Rep. Drew Springer to re-introduce his legislation in the special session to prohibit local and state governments from providing taxpayer funds to abortion providers. This legislation, originally filed in the regular 85th Session as HB 1936, closes the local loophole indefinitely and will prevent cities and the state from funding any organizations that perform abortion services with taxpayer dollars.
From Representative Drew Springer
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June 30, 2017
State Senator Donna Campbell released the following statement following the tragic death of San Antonio Police Officer Miguel Moreno.
“I’m deeply saddened to hear of Officer Miguel Moreno's passing after yesterday's tragic shooting. I join leaders across the state in extending prayers and condolences to his family and the San Antonio Police Department.
From Senator Donna Campbell
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June 30, 2017
Texas Freedom Network President Kathy Miller is expressing her shock and dismay after the Texas Supreme Court today ruled that state and local governments do not have to treat the same-sex spouses of their employees equally to opposite-sex spouses when it comes to employment benefits.
From Texas Freedom Network
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June 30, 2017
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following the death of San Antonio police officer Miguel Moreno:
"Today, we join with all of San Antonio in grieving the loss of a nine-year veteran of the San Antonio Police Department, Officer Miguel Moreno. Officer Moreno was shot in the line of duty yesterday and paid the ultimate price to keep his community safe.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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June 30, 2017
Attorney General Ken Paxton today applauded the Texas Supreme Court’s decision to allow a challenge to the lawless actions of former Houston Mayor Annise Parker to move forward.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 30, 2017
In a court victory for Texas Values and Houston taxpayers, the state supreme court ruled unanimously this morning that Houston taxpayers (Jack Pidgeon and Larry Hicks) may proceed in their lawsuit against the mayor and city of Houston for illegally providing spousal benefits to homosexual partners of city employees.
From Texas Values
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June 30, 2017
Today, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton joined nine other states in requesting the Trump Administration to abolish the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.
From Mexican American Legislative Caucus
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June 30, 2017
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following the shooting of two San Antonio police officers:
"My prayers are with the San Antonio Police Department officers who were victims of this terrible act of violence and the entire SAPD.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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June 30, 2017
Congressman Roger Williams (R – Austin), today voted for the No Sanctuary for Criminals Act (H.R. 3003), and Kate’s Law (H.R. 3004), that are the beginning of Congress’ efforts to improve our nation’s immigration system.
From Representative Roger Williams
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June 30, 2017
Attorney General Ken Paxton gave this statement today after receiving news that two San Antonio police officers were shot:
“I am asking all Texans to join me in praying for the wounded San Antonio police officers.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 30, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) issued the following statement praising the passage of Kate’s Law today in the U.S. House of Representatives. This bill, which was introduced by Rep. Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) and Rep. Steve King (R-Ia.), received strong bipartisan support.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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June 30, 2017
Senator Sylvia R. Garcia, Chair of the Senate Hispanic Caucus issued the following statement in regard to Attorney General Paxton urging President Trump to phase out the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) executive order or risk further litigation:
From Senate Hispanic Caucus
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June 30, 2017
U.S. Rep. Brian Babin (R-TX) today voted to pass the No Sanctuary for Criminals Act (H.R. 3003) and Kate’s Law (H.R. 3004), two common sense bills that crackdown on sanctuary cities and enhance penalties for deported criminal aliens. Rep. Babin spoke passionately on the House floor in support of both bills.
From Representative Brian Babin
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June 29, 2017
Kevin Roberts, Texas State Representative for District 126, representing an area of northwest Harris County including parts of the Cypress-Fairbanks, Klein, Tomball area, announced his re-election bid for the 2018 GOP Primary.
From Kevin Roberts Campaign
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June 29, 2017
Today on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) stressed the importance of upholding the promise Republicans have made for seven years to replace the failed Obamacare law with real health care reform.
From Senator John Cornyn
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June 29, 2017
During the 85th Regular Legislative Session, 6,631 bills were filed in the House and Senate Chambers and 1,211 passed both chambers and were sent to the Governor's desk. Governor Abbott vetoed 51 bills leaving 17% of all bills filed this legislative session becoming law.
From Representative Morgan Meyer
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June 29, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today praised the passage of FY2018 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) through the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) markup process earlier this week, which provides numerous military necessities, including over $512 million in military construction funds to the state of Texas for 2018.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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June 29, 2017
In a letter sent today to the U.S. Attorney General, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, nine other state attorneys general and the governor of Idaho urged the Trump Administration to phase out the unlawful Obama-era Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) program, which confers lawful presence and work permits for nearly one million unlawfully present aliens in the U.S.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 29, 2017
A public information request was recently made to my office by Agua SUD for all documents related to Senate Bill 814, legislation I passed this session to increase transparency and curb conflicts of interests within the Agua SUD board. Today, I am releasing all information our office has on this issue, including all correspondence and documents in compliance with the Texas Public Information Act.
From Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa
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June 29, 2017
State Representative Paul Workman (R-Austin) today announced that he will seek re-election as State Representative for District 47 in the Texas House of Representatives.
“Representing the people of western and southern Travis County is an honor and privilege,” said Rep. Workman. “It is a blessing to serve my neighbors at the state capitol, and I look forward to continuing to represent my community in the Texas House of Representatives should the voters again place their trust in me.”
From Paul Workman Campaign
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June 29, 2017
U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) introduced a Senate Resolution to honor the first anniversary of the tragic attack on Dallas law enforcement on July 7, 2016. The full text of the resolution is as follows:
From Senator John Cornyn
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June 29, 2017
Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush and State Representative Pat Fallon joined Admiral Bobby R. Inman and Linda Mays McCaul as well as Chancellors William McRaven and John Sharp and representatives from AT&T today to raise awareness of the needs of military veterans who often struggle to find work in corporate America and to support a new Texas organization dedicated to helping veterans transition to the private sector.
From AT&T
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June 29, 2017
Attorney General Ken Paxton today announced that his agency will assist Dallas County District Attorney Faith Johnson in her ongoing investigation into allegations of widespread voter fraud in Dallas County precincts.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 29, 2017
Today the charges against Trooper Brian Encinia were dropped. Representative Garnet F. Coleman (D-Houston) released the following statement:
"It is upsetting that the prosecutors decided to drop the charge of perjury against Trooper Encinia.
From Representative Garnet Coleman
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June 28, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today introduced the VA Information Technology Restructuring Act to modernize the Department of Veteran’s Affairs (VA) IT infrastructure in a manner that will better equip it to ensure our veterans receive the utmost quality health care.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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June 28, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) applauded EPA administrator Scott Pruitt’s Wednesday announcement that he would withdraw the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule.
"The announcement to withdraw the Waters of the United States rule is a welcome change for hardworking families, farmers, and ranchers in Texas,” Sen. Cruz said.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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June 28, 2017
On June 29, 2017, Travis County #StrongerTogether will donate $133,000 to Travis County to keep several important specialty court, victim services, and juvenile justice programs in operation through November, as the county works to identify long-term revenue sources.
From Travis County #Stronger Together
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June 28, 2017
With the Republican Senate healthcare bill in limbo, Democratic congressional candidate Elliott McFadden called on Congress to scrap the current plan and adopt a Medicare for All program as the most humane and cost-effective way towards universal healthcare.
From Elliott McFadden Campaign
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June 28, 2017
Gov. Greg Abbott announced today that Sen. Lois Kolkhorst and Rep. Ron Simmons will author legislation in the upcoming special session to protect the privacy of all Texans in restrooms, locker rooms, changing areas, and other intimate spaces.
From Texas Values
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June 27, 2017
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton today joined West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey, Wisconsin Attorney General Brad Schimel and 19 other state attorneys general in supporting the repeal of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 27, 2017
U.S. Rep. Brian Babin (R-TX) issued the following statement today applauding the EPA’s decision to repeal the Obama-era Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule that would have given the federal government unprecedented authority to regulate virtually all water flows in America, including ditches and farmland ponds:
From Representative Brian Babin
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June 27, 2017
Congressman Roger Williams (R – Austin), released the following statement in response to the Trump administration’s removal of the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule.
From Representative Roger Williams
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June 27, 2017
By the end of the 85th Legislative Session, the so-called "sanctuary cities" bill had regrettably escalated into a "show me your papers" bill. Senate Bill 4 is an emotionally divisive issue and threatens to disrupt the lives of all our citizens, not only those who are undocumented but also U.S. citizens of Hispanic ethnicity.
From Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa
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June 27, 2017
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) filed an amicus brief in federal court in support of several Texas cities seeking to halt implementation of Senate Bill 4 (“SB4”). This bill would require local police to question legally detained or arrested individuals, as well as victims and witnesses, about their immigration status, and would punish officials who refuse to comply with federal immigration law.
From Anti-Defamation League
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June 27, 2017
Today, State Representative Rick Miller announced that he will seek re-election to the Texas House of Representatives. Currently serving in his third term, Miller continued to build on the momentum he gained during his first two terms in the House.
From Representative Rick Miller
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June 27, 2017
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) announced his cosponsorship of the Protecting the Second Amendment Act, which was introduced by Sen. Luther Strange (R-Ala.). The bill would amend the Gun Control Act to nullify generalized, routine, or ongoing reporting requirements on lawful gun owners based on geographic location or sales records of multiple long guns, and prohibit future executive action against them.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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June 27, 2017
Last week, Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) took three separate steps to help struggling Americans lift themselves from poverty by pursuing education and entering the workforce. Local leaders including the Superintendent of Floresville Independent School District applauded the decisions.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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June 27, 2017
Aurora Martinez Jones, Associate Judge for Travis County, has filed for election to the 459th Civil District Court, and says her top campaign priority is to work hard to care for the children and families of Travis County with a focus on children in the state’s foster care system.
From Aurora Martinez Jones Campaign
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June 27, 2017
The Texas Ethics Commission (TEC) has now resolved all enforcement efforts related to Zimmerman’s 2014 payment to his wife for campaign work without any finding that a violation occurred and without any fine.
From Najvar Law Firm
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June 27, 2017
Leading a 12-state coalition, Attorney General Ken Paxton filed an amicus brief in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, arguing that the Massachusetts and New York attorneys general are abusing their authority by punishing ExxonMobil Corporation for its climate change views.
From Office of the Attorney General
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June 27, 2017
Today, Senator Joan Huffman (R - Houston) called on Governor Greg Abbott to add legislation requiring institutions of higher education in Texas to establish safe, appropriate, and reliable avenues for reporting instances of sexual assault and violence to the official proclamation for the upcoming First Called Session of the 85th Legislature.
From Senator Joan Huffman
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June 27, 2017
Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) issued the following statement after the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office released its analysis of Senate Republicans’ healthcare bill:
“Like the House’s legislation, the Senate healthcare bill will force working families and seniors to pay jacked up prices for worse care.
From Representative Joaquin Castro
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June 27, 2017
“Today the independent Congressional Budget Office calculated that the Senate health care legislation will leave 22 million more Americans uninsured. My most vulnerable constituents - people with disabilities, older Americans, children, working families - would be hit the hardest. This is unacceptable.
From Representative Henry Cuellar
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 Copyright July 28, 2017, Harvey Kronberg, www.quorumreport.com, All rights are reserved
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