The State Capitol was filled with energy this past week, as folks from around the state poured into the building to celebrate Texas Independence Day. On March 2, 1836 our brave ancestors adopted the Texas Declaration of Independence, which officially established Texas’ independence from Mexico and created the Republic of Texas. As I walked the... Read More

REPRESENTATIVE ASHBY HONORED BY CHRISTIAN LIFE COMMISSION AUSTIN – This week, at a reception hosted by the Christian Life Commission, State Representative Trent Ashby (R-Lufkin) was honored with the Micah 6:8 Justice Award for his dedicated public service and advocacy on behalf of Texas school children. The Christian Life Commission is the public policy arm... Read More

I’d like to start the column by recognizing a very special group of young constituents that made their way to Austin this past week. The San Augustine High School Band was selected to come to their State Capitol to help commemorate the State of Texas Anniversary Remembrance Day. It was my distinct honor to introduce... Read More

AUSTIN, TX – Today, a group of key state lawmakers filed a slate of legislation to push back against Texas Central Railway’s controversial proposal to construct a high-speed rail line between Dallas and Houston.  Senators Birdwell (R-Granbury), Creighton (R-Conroe), Kolkhorst (R-Brenham), Perry (R-Lubbock), and Schwertner (R-Georgetown) joined with Representatives Ashby (R-Lufkin), Bell (R-Magnolia), Cook (R-Corsicana),... Read More

It’s been a very busy week at the Capitol, so let’s jump right into what’s happening at your State Capitol. . .   Lufkin – Angelina County Day Recently, we celebrated Lufkin/Angelina County Day in Austin. Many of you made the long drive to Austin to be with us for this special occasion, and I... Read More

I’d like to start the column by highlighting an event that is particularly special to me and other members of the Legislature. This week I joined my colleagues, and hundreds of other Texans, when we gathered in prayer on the South steps of your Capitol to launch the Texas Legislative Prayer Caucus. With the 85th... Read More

This past week was a busy one at your State Capitol with lots of constituent visits, office meetings, and a variety of resolutions being considered on the floor. As the House eagerly awaits committee assignments to be announced by the Speaker, here’s the latest update on what’s happening in Austin . . .   State... Read More

AUSTIN – Senator Robert Nichols (R-Jacksonville) and State Representative Trent Ashby (R-Lufkin) have once again filed legislation aimed at addressing the arbitrary small school adjustment formula in our state’s school finance system. Senate Bill 678 and House Bill 1390 will help create a level playing field for small districts that are expected to provide the... Read More

As January comes to a close, I’d like to point out that this past month was School Board Recognition Month.  As a former school board member, I have a deep appreciation for the critical role our school boards play in shaping our state’s future by providing direction and leadership for our state’s 1,000 plus school... Read More

This past week all eyes were on Washington as President Donald Trump was sworn in as the 45th President of the United States of America.  Closer to home, in Austin, we continue to convene in our respective chambers and go about the work the people of Texas expect from their citizen legislators. On that note,... Read More