The curtain has closed on the 87th Legislative Session, reminding me of the lyrics from one of my favorite Willie Nelson songs: “turn out the lights, the party’s over.” As lawmakers head back to their respective districts, they’ll return to their “day job” until our first Special Session is called later this summer. I’m personally... Read More

AUSTIN — Today, Representative Trent Ashby (R-Lufkin) released this statement on the conclusion of 87th Legislative Session: Monday was the final day of what many are calling “the most conservative session in Texas history.” In 140 days we protected the sanctity of life by banning abortions when a heartbeat is detected, built upon our state’s... Read More

Matthew 20:26 says, “whoever would be great among you must be your servant.” Our freedoms in America have not been granted, but fought for by the great men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. As you take a long weekend at the lake, enjoy a picnic with your family, or... Read More

This past week, we celebrated National Transportation Infrastructure Week. While this recognition does not come with celebratory cake and confetti, I know we can all appreciate the core systems which enable the movement of goods and people throughout the state and across the country. Transportation infrastructure brings prosperity to the nation by connecting Americans to... Read More

A little over two weeks is all that’s left of the 87th Legislative Session. Deadlines alluded to in previous columns have come and gone, and we are now in the final countdown. These deadlines, referred to as the “Split Session Amendments,” were first proposed in 1930 to set the pace of session and ensure the... Read More

Happy Mother’s Day! This weekend I hope that you will all take a moment to thank the hardworking mothers and grandmothers in your life. Whether carpooling a big group home from a late Friday night football game or working late nights to pay for that one perfect Christmas gift you just had to have, we... Read More

With less than four weeks to go before the 87th Legislative Session comes to a close, there is a mad dash to hear as many bills as possible before “Sine Die.” With so much happening in these final thirty days, let’s jump right in… Capitol Update Recently, state leaders announced that $11.2 billion of available... Read More

Even though Texas has felt a little cooler in recent days, things are heating up in your State Capitol—so let’s dive right in. The House Committee on Transportation met for a public hearing on Tuesday for eight hours to listen to and discuss public and stakeholder testimony. This committee covers a wide range of issues,... Read More

On April 21, 1836, General Sam Houston led the Texian Army to victory at the Battle of San Jacinto. Fought near the present day city of Deer Park, the 18 minute long battle began when Texian forces charged the Mexican camp during their siesta—for which Mexican President and General, Santa Anna, failed to post sentinels.... Read More

Surrounded by hundreds of law enforcement officers, the loved ones of Texas State Trooper Chad Walker solemnly laid him to rest after he gave his life in the line of duty. The funeral and burial of Trooper Walker this past week reminds us all of the inherent dangers our law enforcement members face each day... Read More