AUSTIN – Today, Texas Lt. Governor Dan Patrick announced interim charges for the State Affairs, Natural Resources and Agriculture, Water and Rural Affairs Committees. Interim charges for other committees will be announced tomorrow.

All the interim charges reflect the concerns and priorities of Texans across the state and include input from every senator.

“I’m asking the State Affairs Committee to assure we preserve our most fundamental rights including the freedom of religion, the right to bear arms and freedom of political speech,” said Patrick. “State Affairs will also identify ways to strengthen Texas ethics laws and ensure policy makers across the state are held to the high standards held by Texas voters.

“The Natural Resources Committee will study the federal mandates being implemented by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the impact they will have on the Texas economy,” continued Patrick. “The committee will also review the competitiveness of Texas’ permitting process and make recommendations on how to maintain our friendly business climate.

“The Senate Agriculture, Water and Rural Affairs Committee will continue their critical focus on protecting and increasing the water resources of our state while preserving the water rights of all Texans.

“Texas needs to protect its most valuable resources, while maintaining a vibrant economy. These interim charges will address potential issues that might hinder our way of life and suppress personal freedom,” concluded Patrick.

ATTACHMENT:

84th Senate Interim Charges, Part 1 (332 KB, PDF)