AUSTIN – Five months ago I expressed my disappointment in the actions of the Legislative Budget Board (LBB) staff when they challenged the budget vetoes by Governor Abbott. At the time the LBB Executive Director, Ursula Parks, sent a letter to the Comptroller expressing her view that the Governor did not act appropriately. I disagreed with her… Read more »

AUSTIN – It is completely unacceptable for the city of Beaumont to ban its police officers from holding voluntary Bible studies during their lunch hour. This is an infringement on their First Amendment Right to free exercise of religion guaranteed by the United States Constitution. The City of Beaumont should immediately reverse its decision to… Read more »

AUSTIN – Due to the retirement of Senator Troy Fraser and Senator Kevin Eltife, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick announces the following appointments: Sen. Craig Estes – Chairman, Senate Natural Resources and Economic Development Sen. Kelly Hancock – Chairman, Senate Business and Commerce “The Texas Senate is losing a significant amount of institutional knowledge with the… Read more »

AUSTIN –I stand behind the City of Orange’s initial decision to display the nativity scene of Christ outside of City Hall. In fact, I encourage the City of Orange to put the nativity scene back on display and not succumb to the those who threaten to silence what many of us hold so dear to… Read more »

AUSTIN – I am extremely disappointed that the Texas Racing Commission failed to repeal historical racing. Previously, a state district court judge ruled historical racing rules adopted by the commission exceeded the commission’s authority granted to them by the Texas Legislature. Members of the legislature also expressed their opposition in a letter to the commission… Read more »

AUSTIN – I fully support Governor Abbott’s decision to extend the deployment of National Guard troops along the border. When considering fast changing world events and the threats they potentially bring Texas cannot, and will not, sit idly by when it comes to protecting our citizens and our border.   That is why I sent a letter… Read more »

AUSTIN – I applaud Governor Abbott’s selection of Mike Morath as the next Commissioner of Education. He is a great choice. As Vice Chair and Chair of the Senate Education Committee, I worked closely with Mike over the years to develop education reforms that have improved our schools and expanded school choice. I look forward… Read more »

AUSTIN – For as long as capitol historians can remember, going back more than 70 years, the Texas Senate Chamber has not had an annual Christmas tree to welcome members and visitors in the true spirit of the holiday. Why not? “I was asked that question two years ago as a state senator,” said Patrick,… Read more »

AUSTIN – Texas Lt. Governor Dan Patrick sent this letter to President Barack Obama and the Texas Congressional delegation urging swift action on securing our border.   —————————– Dear President Obama:   As a result of the failed immigration and border security policies of your administration, the state of Texas continues to shoulder the burden of… Read more »

AUSTIN – President Obama and his administration may not believe it but we are indeed in a time of war. I stand with Senator Ted Cruz and Governor Greg Abbott calling on Congress to immediately pass much needed legislation strengthening states’ legal rights to block potential terrorists.