Friends,

This interim has been a time for me to continue pursuing the priorities of Texans. The past few weeks I have been back on the road making my way around Central Texas. I’ve traveled about 700 miles, stopping in Killeen, Ft. Hood, Waco, Belton, Austin and Hays County. There is always more work to be done, and I will do my part in meeting the needs of the 254 counties across Texas.

Central Texas Visit

My first stop was Killeen, Texas, to meet with local leaders, including the Chamber of Commerce, Mayors and Hispanic-American Chamber in the four surrounding cities. I was able to share the successes of the 84th Legislature. Bell County is looking forward to the positive effects from lower property taxes for homeowners and small businesses. The Texas Senate passed SB7 and was instrumental in passing historical legislation that will reduce the franchise tax by 25 percent. This was excellent news to small business in the Killeen area. Other major achievements we discussed comprised of increasing border security funding from $300 million to $800 million and holding schools more accountable across this state to improve our education system.

Lt. Gov. Patrick at a reception with local Bell County leaders at the Marriott in Killeen.

Fort Hood Tour

Having the opportunity to tour the largest military training base we have was astonishing. Ft. Hood stretches across 370 square miles and houses 40,000 troops. I was able to see their training city built on the grounds, as well as hundreds of tanks and other military vehicles. Their railhead can move 20,000 soldiers with their equipment per week. These soldiers are the epitome of courage and bravery. We should always honor our men and women in uniform because they honor and protect our freedom.

Lt. Gov. Patrick about to board the Black Hawk to tour Ft. Hood.

Lt. Gov. Patrick aboard the helicopter overlooking Ft. Hood.

Renewed Push For Preventing County Jail Deaths

I held a news conference with Criminal Justice Committee Chair Senator John Whitmire to announce an interim study on jail safety standards in Texas. Too often, circumstantial needs of inmates are not met and it results in tragedies that could have been avoided. We need to ensure the necessary resources are available to meet the health, well-being and safety needs of every individual in custody. It would be foolish for us to wait a year and a half for the 85th Legislative session to make changes, if we can potentially help save lives now.

Read more from this Press Release.

Lt. Gov. Patrick, Sen. Whitmire and local sheriffs at a press conference announcing an interim study on jail safety.

Directly From the Source

Visit my website at www.ltgov.state.tx.us for the latest updates from the Lieutenant Governor’s office.

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God Bless Texas,

“Whomever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant.”

Matthew 20:26 (NLT)