If you’ve been keeping up with what’s going on in Austin, you’ve probably heard that my fellow legislators and I have been called back for a special session on July 18th. It’s been over five years since our last special session, so I wanted to take this opportunity to provide a brief refresher on what... Read More

In the weeks that follow, I’d like to use the column to provide you with a bi-monthly synopsis on developments from the 85th Legislative Session. If you’ve been keeping up with my weekly columns, you’re well aware of my involvement in the education arena. From the very onset of the session, I have made it... Read More

By the time some of you read this column, the Texas House will have adjourned Sine Die (meaning without assigning a day for a further meeting). A special session called by the Governor is a possibility, but as the dust settles and the curtains close on the 85th Legislative Session, legislators are eager to return... Read More

As the final week of the 85th Legislative Session approaches, I’d like to take a moment to thank each and every one of you that has contacted either myself or my staff over the last several months. Without your phone calls, emails, and letters to my office, I would not be able to represent my... Read More

With Mother’s Day upon us, I hope you’ll take some time to say ‘Happy Mother’s Day’ to the wonderful mothers, grandmothers, and even great-grandmothers, in our lives. While we should always be thankful to the women in our lives, Mother’s Day provides a unique opportunity to demonstrate our appreciation for the way they help shape... Read More

With less than four weeks to go in the 85th Legislative Session, the Legislature has shifted into high gear as we are now meeting even on weekends. This next week the Texas House will have its last chance to take action on the bills that were authored by House members. In the weeks that follow,... Read More

With less than a month remaining in session, mornings are coming earlier and nights lasting longer. On several recent occasions, the Texas House debated legislation well through the night and into the early hours of the morning. While these long nights will only become more frequent, I find motivation by working with my colleagues to... Read More

Education has been the buzzword around your Capitol this past week. From increasing school funding, to taking care of our retired teachers, the Texas House has taken decisive action on fulfilling our commitment to making meaningful improvements to the education system here in Texas. As hearings continue and proposals are discussed, I can’t help but... Read More

  AUSTIN – State Representative Trent Ashby (R-Lufkin) has been appointed by House Speaker Joe Straus (R-San Antonio) to serve on the Conference Committee for Senate Bill 1, which represents the state’s biennial budget. Prior to his appointment, Ashby has been deeply involved in crafting the House budget as the Chairman for the Article III... Read More

He is risen! With the Easter season upon us, I’m reminded of how fortunate we are to live in a state where your Legislature begins every day with a prayer. With all the hustle and bustle that surrounds the Capitol this time of year, it is so helpful to come to the Lord in reverence... Read More