I want to start this column by asking for all of your thoughts and prayers to be with the victims and families affected by the horrible terrorist attack in Paris. The attack was an atrocity, and I pray that those who took part in it will be brought to swift justice. While the world... Read More

  I want to start this column by honoring those who have served, or are currently serving, in our nation’s military.  Our country is blessed beyond measure to have men and women who continue to put service before self, and who answer the call to defend liberty, freedom, and the values we hold dear as... Read More

Like you, I am very grateful for the much-needed recent rainfall across our region of the state.  Further west in Austin, folks remain alert waiting for the Speaker of the House to issue the interim charges, which will direct the various House Committees to study important issues leading into the next session.  I submitted a... Read More

  The calendar has rolled over to October, and October has brought with it welcome relief from the heat of the past few months. The Capitol is mostly quiet during these fall months, as most legislators are back in their districts. However, the constitutional amendments election is right around the corner, on November 3rd, and... Read More

Fall is officially here, many communities have festivals around the corner, and it seems most of us have completely settled into our autumn routines. Further west, the Capitol crowd is anxiously awaiting the release of the House and Senate interim charges in the next couple of months, as these determine what issues each committee will... Read More

Over the past few weeks, we have seen some backlash and hostility towards our law enforcement community in the national press and on social media. Like you, I am very thankful for the work they do keeping us safe, and I think we should all honor them in every way possible. As you encounter law... Read More

The start to another school year is just around the corner, which means that a new fall season won’t be too far behind.  I hope everyone has been able to take advantage of their summer break. Here is an update of what is happening at your state capitol… A Bill and Some Change Earlier this... Read More

We are in the dog days of summer, but time is flying by. In a few short weeks students will be back in school, and fall will be just around the corner. While we are all trying to stay cool, here is what is happening in your state capitol… Back to School Tax-Free Weekend: Aug.... Read More

We are beginning to experience the true heat of a Texas summer, but things have cooled off at your State Capitol since the Legislative Session concluded last month. I hope everyone has had the chance to enjoy some time off and find ways to stay cool. A tale of two bills: Ethics Reform Ethics was... Read More

I hope everyone had a relaxing and safe Independence Day with friends and family. I also want to take a moment to say thank you to all that have served our nation and are currently serving that allow us to celebrate our nation’s independence each year. Veterans This past Legislative Session was extremely successful for... Read More