Article Source: LLKLLC.com I’d like to say – “oh what a night”. But now it has turned into “ oh what a week!” Everyone in America is just waiting for a true election night, that may take more time that anyone wanted….. That being said, the State of Texas certainly has some Definity. What a…
Source: Texas Lobby Partners Mike Toomey announced today that he is forming a new partnership with lobbyist Marc A. Rodriguez. The new venture, Texas Lobby Partners LLP, will also include Carrie Simmons as a partner. Simmons and Toomey have worked together since 2014. The many decades of combined experience of the Texas Lobby Partners team…
Source: LLKLLC.com Lara Keel is branching out to launch her own lobby practice, LLK LLC. “Lara has been a valued friend and partner for many years, and I’m proud of her decision to strike out and build her own practice. We both look forward to our continued partnership in this new capacity for many years…
News Source: Texas Lobby Partners A lot of money was spent, and the status quo remains for the most part (assuming 2 recounts don’t change the election night winner) . The blue wave that was suspected did not hit Texas shores. The Texas House of Representatives stayed at its current makeup (83 Republicans, 67 Democrats)…
Time to get aboard the Texas Central Railroad. Every Texan should celebrate the Federal Railroad Administration’s greenlight of a truly transformative project that will create jobs, protect the environment, and attract billions of dollars of investment. If you are grateful to previous generations for building the Interstate Highway System, you should support high-speed rail. Texas…
Fiscal Year 2020 Comes to a close This week Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar released totals for fiscal 2020 state revenues, in addition to announcing monthly state revenues for August. Overall tax collection was down 3% from FY 2019. General Revenue-related revenue for fiscal 2020 totaled $56.98 billion, down 1.5 percent from fiscal 2019. All Funds…
Sunset Commission Cancels Upcoming Meeting COVID-19 has affected many typical interim legislative activities. Recently, it has caused much consternation for the Sunset Commission. The Sunset Commission conducts reviews of state agencies during every legislative interim, which include public hearings and legislative recommendations that must be finalized before the 87th Legislative Session. Chairman John Cyrier has…
Sales Tax Revenue Rebound in July This week, Comptroller Glenn Hegar announced that state sales tax revenue totaled $2.98 billion in July, 4.3% more than in July 2019. “Collections from e-commerce were up sharply, as many consumers chose to shop online rather than at brick-and-mortar stores,” Hegar said. “Also, more online marketplace and remote vendors…
Texas Comptroller Provides Update on State’s Fiscal Situation On Monday, July 20, Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar provided an update on Texas’ fiscal condition at two meetings. At the Cash Management Committee meeting, Governor Greg Abbott, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, Speaker of the House Dennis Bonnen, and Comptroller Hegar discussed the cash flow forecast for fiscal…
Governor Abbott Announces School Flexibility and Funding On July 17, Governor Greg Abbott and several other state officials announced that Texas is apportioning $200 million of Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funds to the Texas Education Agency (TEA). These funds will be used for technologies that will enable remote learning, particularly for…
On July 14, the Republican and Democratic primary runoffs and a special election were held across Texas. Four Texas House incumbents lost their runoff elections – Rep. J.D. Sheffield, Rep. Dan Flynn, Rep. Anna Eastman and Rep. Lorraine Birabil. In the Democratic runoff for U.S. Senator, Mary “MJ” Hegar took 52.13% of votes in a…
Governor Abbott Responds Further to Surge of COVID-19 Cases As the number of coronavirus cases continues to increase in the state of Texas, Governor Abbott is aiming to anticipate the economic impact and respond proactively. Many students that are enrolled in the Texas higher education system receive need-based financial aid, the resources for which could…
Governor Abbott Increases Precautions as COVID-19 Numbers Rise This week, Governor Greg Abbott has taken several measures to increase protection of Texans from COVID-19. Today, the Governor announced a statewide facemask mandate. Governor Abbott’s executive order requires all Texans to wear a face covering over the nose and mouth in public spaces in counties with…
Governor Abbott Suspends Further Openings This week, Texas saw an increase in COVID-19 cases. In response, Governor Greg Abbott issued three executive orders and announced a temporary pause of any further phases to open Texas. This morning, Governor Abbott released an Executive Order to reduce the spread of COVID-19 by restricting high traffic areas. The…
Texas Hospital Capacity On Tuesday, June 16th, Governor Greg Abbott held a press conference to update Texans on the State’s coronavirus response and hospital capacity. Although there has been an uptick in cases, the Governor offered reassurances that Texas continues to maintain abundant hospital capacity. “As we begin to open up Texas and Texans returns…
Governor Announces Third Phase of Reopening. On June 3, Governor Greg Abbott announced an executive order implementing the third phase of the plan to reopen the state during the coronavirus pandemic, allowing most businesses to operate at 50% capacity effective immediately. Meeting and event venues may operate at 50% capacity indoors and without a capacity…
Governor Abbott Expands Reopened Services. On May 26, Gov. Abbott issued executive order GA-23 expanding additional services and activities allowed to open under the second phase of Texas’s reopening plan: Effective immediately, driver education programs can resume operations. Effective immediately, food-court dining areas within shopping malls can resume operations. Effective May 29, water parks can…
Governor Urges Local Governments Against Increasing Property Taxes. On May 19, Governor Abbott responded to a letter from members of the Texas Democratic Congressional Delegation regarding tax burdens on Texans. In his letter, the Governor voiced his support of lessening the tax burden on Texans and urged local governments not to raise property taxes during…
Governor Abbott Announces Phase 2 Reopening of Businesses. On May 18th, Governor Abbott announced an executive order governing Phase 2 of the state’s reopening, subject to sanitation, distancing, and safety standards to prevent the spread of COVID-19 which can be found at Gov.texas.gov/opentexas. The order, effective until June 3, 2020, includes several key dates for…
Coronavirus Updates Governor Directs COVID-19 Testing in all Nursing Home Facilities. On May 11th, Governor Abbott directed the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM), and the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) to test all residents and staff in Texas nursing homes. The Governor instructed HHSC,…
Comptroller Releases Sales Tax Update. On May 2, Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar said state sales tax revenue totaled $2.58 billion in April, 9.3 percent less than in April 2019 and the steepest decline since January 2010. Next month’s remittances likely will show steeper declines compared to a year ago, as the effects of both the…
Governor Holds Press Conference On Further Opening Economy. On May 5th, Governor Greg Abbott held a press conference to provide updates on the state’s COVID-19 response and share clarifications and modifications to his recent executive orders to reopen the state’s economy. The governor shared data showing increasing numbers of tests being conducted in the state…
Gov. Abbott Announces Plan to Reopen State. On April 27th, Gov. Greg Abbott held a press conference at the state Capitol to announce an executive order for an initial easing of COVID-19 restrictions. The governor described a limited, phased reopening, requiring 2 weeks of steady or declining COVID-19 cases before moving from phase to phase.…
Governor Plans Announcement on Opening of Businesses. Next Monday, April 27th, Governor Abbott intends to issue new statewide orders that will further loosen Texas’ lockdown. Abbott said he’ll make an announcement that will reopen “massive amounts of businesses” that have been closed since the statewide stay-at-home order issued on March 31. “You’re going to be…
TLG UPDATE: Mike Toomey has taken a leave of absence from Texas Lobby Group to serve as the Chief Operations Officer of Governor Greg Abbott’s Strike Force to Open Texas. During this time, Mike will not be a registered lobbyist. Instead, he will be dedicated to getting Texans back to work and our State’s economy…
Comptroller Hegar Discusses Virus Impact. On Tuesday, April 7, the Texas Tribune hosted a live interview with Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar to discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the state’s economy and workforce. In the interview, the Comptroller was reluctant to make exact predictions for how the virus might affect the state budget, citing…
Governor Abbott Issues Executive Order, Implements Statewide Essential Services and Activities Protocols. On Tuesday, March 31, Governor Greg Abbott held a press conference to provide an update on the state’s response to COVID-19 and issued an Executive Order implementing Essential Services and Activities Protocols for the entire state. The Governor’s order also extended the closure of…
The TLG lobbyists and staff are all working from home. If you need anything please call one of us on our mobile phone. Keep Safe. The Governor and other state and local elected officials have continued to take emergency actions this week to slow the spread of COVID-19 and assist Texans impacted by the pandemic:…
Governor Greg Abbott has taken several actions in the past week meant to slow the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic in Texas and assist citizens medical services, and businesses experiencing disruptions. These actions include: Restrictions on Gatherings, Restaurants, and Other Businesses. On March 19, Governor Abbott issued an order closing schools, bars and gyms amid…
Governor Abbott issued a Proclamation today allowing local governments the option of postponing the May 2, 2020 elections until November 3rd. “I strongly encourage local election officials to take advantage of these waivers and postpone their elections until November,” said Governor Abbott. “Right now, the state’s focus is responding to COVID-19 — including social distancing…
Please see the State Disaster Proclamation that Governor Abbott issued today at noon. TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME: WHEREAS, the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has been recognized globally as a contagious respiratory virus; and WHEREAS, as of March 13, 2020, there are more than 30 confirmed cases of COVID-l 9 located in multiple…
Primary Election Results. Texans went to the polls on Tuesday, March 3rd to cast ballots in the Democratic and Republican primaries for presidential nominees, seats in the US Congress and Senate, 10 statewide positions, including the U.S. Senate, the Railroad Commissioner, and candidates for 8 seats on the state’s highest courts, the Texas Supreme Court…
Rep. Rodriguez Prepares for Senate Run. On Thursday, Representative Eddie Rodriguez (D-Austin) formed an exploratory committee for a potential run to fill the unexpired term of State Senator Kirk Watson (D-Austin). Sen. Watson, who has represented the Austin-area District 19 since 2007, recently announced that he would leave the Senate in April. Democratic State Representatives…
Early Voting. Early voting began on Tuesday in Texas for voters to cast their ballots before the March 3 Primary Election. Early voting will last for 10 days, ending on Tuesday, February 28th. In addition to local and regional elections, primary voters will cast ballots for 10 statewide positions, including the U.S. Senate, the Railroad…
House Republican PAC Comparison. The Speaker of the Texas House typically administers a campaign Political Action Committee to protect the party’s incumbents and overall majority in the House. The Texas Leads PAC, established by House Speaker Dennis Bonnen before he announced that he would not run for another term, had collected more than $3 million…
Election Update. The last day to register to vote in the Texas primary elections was Monday, February 3. Early voting will be open from Tuesday, February 18 until February 28 and election day is Tuesday, March 3. In total, 26 Texas House members will face primary challengers in March and 86 will face general election…
Texans voted yesterday in three runoff elections to fill terms in the Texas House. Because these elections filled vacancies left when previous officeholders retired, winning candidates must still run again in the March 3, 2020 Primary and the November 3rd, 2020 General Election. With all polling locations reporting, here are last night’s results: Gary Gates…
Lt. Governor Names Sunset Appointees. On January 21, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick announced four new appointments to the Sunset Advisory Commission: Senators Pat Fallon (R-Prosper), Eddie Lucio (D-Brownsville) and Angela Paxton (R-McKinney). Patrick also named Ralph Duggins, of Fort Worth, as the new the public member appointee. Duggins is a partner at Cantey Hanger, LLP…
Election Update. The last day to register to vote in primary elections is Monday, February 3, 2020. Early voting will begin Tuesday, February 18 until February 28 and election day is Tuesday, March 3. In total, 26 Texas House members will face primary challengers and 86 will face general election challengers; 12 will face both.…
The deadline to run as a candidate in one of the two major parties in Texas was Monday, December 9th at 6:00 PM. Offices up for election include seats in the US Senate and House of Representatives, the Texas House and Senate, and several statewide offices. The party primaries are scheduled for March 3, 2020 and…
House Speaker Dennis Bonnen announced interim charges for Texas House Committees today, laying out issues for lawmakers to examine and develop recommendations before the next legislative session. The charges are largely focused on monitoring the implementation of legislation passed during the 86th Session, including major bills like HB 3 and SB 2, the school finance…
On Tuesday, November 5th, Texas voters decided on 10 proposed amendments to the state Constitution while voters in three State House districts sent their special elections to runoffs. In Houston, a runoff election appears likely between Mayor Sylvester Turner and challenger Tony Buzbee. Voters Approve 9 of 10 Constitutional Amendments. Voters on Tuesday approved nearly…
Senate Committee Interim Charges. On Wednesday, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick announced interim charges for Senate Committees. Interim charges give committees specific direction on issues and topics to consider before the next legislative session. Below are some highlights from the charges; the full list can be viewed here. Electricity: The Business and Commerce Committee is directed…
House Speaker Dennis Bonnen (R-Angleton) announced today that he will not seek another term as speaker in the Texas House, nor will he seek re-election to his seat in House District 25. The announcement follows weeks of controversy after the head of Empower Texans revealed details and later a recording of a private meeting in…
Fundraising Reports Suggest Front Runners in Competitive HD-28. On Monday, candidates filed their first set of 30-day fundraising reports for House District 28, located outside Houston and recently vacated by Republican state Rep. John Zerwas, who won re-election in 2016 by 8 percentage points. Six GOP candidates have declared for the seat, with three raising…
In the wake of recent shootings in El Paso, Midland, and Odessa, Texas political leaders announced a set of executive orders meant to reduce the risk of further violence and the formation of two bipartisan legislative committees to study and recommend potential new policy solutions. Outside Austin, twenty-six candidates in total have filed to run…
Capitol Inside released their biennial Texas lobby power rankings this week, and Texas Lobby Group made another impressive showing in several categories. 2019 Lobby Rankings. Texas Lobby Group boasts three professionals among the top-ranked “hired guns:” Mike Toomey at number 1, Lara Keel at number 6, and Carrie Simmons at number 41. Recent addition Alec…
Ballot Order Drawn for Constitutional Amendments. On July 23, Deputy Secretary of State Joe Esparza drew the ballot order for the ten proposed constitutional amendments that will appear on the November 5th ballot. After the ceremony, the Deputy Secretary reminded all eligible Texans to exercise their right to vote: “The future of Texas is and…
Before Mike Toomey became Rick Perry’s chief of staff, his ruthless slashing of state budgets earned him the moniker “Mike the Knife.” Mike Toomey, Republican, Houston. Mike the Knife. The supreme cutter; a Texas version of David Stockman, who knew where the budget bodies were buried and was intent on exhuming and dissecting every last one.…
The Texas Constitution gives the governor authority to veto bills and requires that the veto power be exercised within 10 days after legislation is passed during session, or within 20 days of the Legislature’s adjournment. The veto period for the 86th legislature ended on June 19. Of the 4,581 bills passed by the House and…
Today is the last day of the 86th Legislative Session. In the past two weeks, among other actions, the legislature has approved final bills on the budget and supplemental budget, school finance reform, property tax reform, approved major changes to the state’s treatment of online sales tax, and extended significant “Chapter 312” property tax abatements. …
Texas House Passes SB 2. On Wednesday, the House of Representatives gave its final approval to SB 2, the property tax reform package, after several hours of debate. As passed, the bill would require taxing units like cities, counties, and emergency services districts to hold an election to approve raising more than 3.5% more property…
House Approves Hemp Production. On Wednesday, the House gave unanimous approval to HB 1325 by Rep. Tracy King (D-Batesville) to allow the farming and cultivation of industrial hemp, a cousin of the marijuana plant with low levels of psychoactive compounds. In addition to allowing farmers to grow hemp, the proposal would legalize the production…
HB 1 Conference Committee. On Thursday, the House refused to concur on Senate amendments to HB 1, the general appropriations bill, and named its conferees to negotiate with the Senate: John Zerwas (R-Richmond) – Chair Greg Bonnen (R-Friendswood) Sarah Davis (R-Houston) Oscar Longoria (D-Mission) Armando Walle (D-Houston) Sales Tax Proposal. On Wednesday, Governor Greg…
The biggest news this week was the House’s approval of a sweeping $9 billion plan to reform the state’s school finance system. The bill included increased funding for school districts, directed increases for teacher pay, and provided additional funding for pre-kindergarten education. School finance reform has been at the top of lawmakers’ priorities this session…
Much of the news this week came out of the House of Representatives. The House passed HB 1, the general appropriations bill, after consideration of hundreds of amendments that stretched into late Wednesday night. That same night, the House Ways and Means Committee reported HB 2, a property tax reform bill, favorably. In the Senate,…
The House Appropriations Committee this week gave approval to HB 1 and SB 500, the general and supplemental appropriations bills, respectively. The House Education Committee approved HB 3, a combined school finance and property tax reform package totaling more than $9 billion. Meanwhile, the Senate gave approval to a package of emergency response bills meant…
With the deadline for bill filing behind us, lawmakers this week largely focused on budgetary issues and considering legislation in committee. 7,281 bills were filed before the deadline this session, an increase of 627 over 2017. This week, the Senate passed SB 500, the supplemental appropriations bill, in part tapping the Rainy Day Fund to…
Harvey Recovery Press Conference. On Monday, Governor Greg Abbott held a press conference call with the Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson, announcing $652 million in additional federal funding for Hurricane Harvey recovery. The additional funds are allocated from the Community Development Block Grant for Disaster Recovery Program and add to the more than…
Lawmakers began to fill in the details for some of the session’s headline issues this week, including property tax reform, mental health, and regulation of paid sick leave. A special election moved to a run-off in San Antonio’s House District 125, while a run-off date was set for March 5th in Houston’s HD-145. Special Elections.…
Governor Greg Abbott delivered his State of the State address on Tuesday, addressing a joint chamber of the Senate and the House. In his speech, he noted Texas’s recent successes, especially in energy production and economic measures like unemployment. Gov. Abbott also designated several emergency priorities for the session. Lawmakers normally may not pass bills…
Capitol Inside released their biennial Texas lobby power rankings this week, and Texas Lobby Group made another impressive showing in several categories. At the Capitol, state leaders released a proposal for property tax reform and new member was elected to the House of Representatives. The Governor’s State of the State Address is s 2019 Lobby…
On Wednesday, January 23, Speaker of the House Dennis Bonnen announced committee assignments for the 86th Legislature. “I want every member to know, every member was considered thoughtfully in these assignments,” Bonnen told lawmakers. “I don’t want a single member to not feel a part of this house.” There are several notable changes from last…
Gov. and Lt. Gov. Inauguration. Governor Greg Abbott and Lt. Governor Dan Patrick were sworn in on January 15th, 2019 at the Capitol by Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice Nathan Hecht and 5th Circuit Court of Appeals Judge Don Willett, respectively. In their speeches, the leaders emphasized the familiar themes of school finance reform, property tax reform,…
The 86th Legislative Session opened at the Texas Capitol on Tuesday as lawmakers took their oaths of office, selected new leaders, and began to work on major priorities for the new session like school finance reform and property tax reform. The House of Representatives unanimously chose Rep. Dennis Bonnen, R-Angleton, as the chamber’s first new…
With the 86th Texas Legislature opening in just a few days, lawmakers will soon begin selecting leaders, debating rules, and setting in motion their priorities for the session. Here are some upcoming dates, stories, and events to watch: Legislature Convenes and Approves Rules. The 86th Texas Legislature will convene at 12:00 noon on Tuesday, January 8th, 2019…
Representative Dennis Bonnen (R-Angleton), the Texas House speaker-elect, announced that Sharon Carter and Hugh Brady will serve jointly as Parliamentarians for the House of Representatives in the 86th Legislative Session. Sharon Carter has an extensive resume serving the state of Texas, including more than 15 years of parliamentary experience. Carter previously served as the Associate…
While the House of Representatives will not officially vote on its next speaker until the opening of the legislative session on January 8th, Representative Dennis Bonnen (R-Angleton), who recently announced the pledged support of 109 members and members-elect, has already begun making staff announcements for his speakership. On Tuesday, November 13th, Bonnen announced former Plano GOP…
State Representative Dennis Bonnen, R-Angleton, appears set to become the next speaker of the Texas House of Representatives after announcing support from 109 members and members-elect. At a press conference on November 12th, he thanked his colleagues for their support and turned his focus toward the upcoming session naming school finance as his top priority.…
Texas saw historic turnout in two weeks of early voting, and election day was no less impressive. In the headline race, Ted Cruz held onto his Senate seat, earning 50.89% of the vote to defeat Democrat Beto O’Rourke. Though Republicans held that seat and every other statewide elected office, Democrats rode enthusiasm behind the Senate…
Fueled by the hotly contested race between Senator Ted Cruz and Democrat Beto O’Rourke, turnout for this year’s midterm election in Texas is set to dwarf that of 2014 presidential election. About 15.8 million Texans are registered to vote this year, a 12% increase since 2014’s midterm election. Certain counties, including Bexar, Dallas, Travis, Midland…
Yesterday, Republican Pete Flores defeated Democrat Pete Gallego in the final round of a special election for Texas’ Senate District 19. While typically a reliably Democratic district, the seat’s sudden vacancy and potential implications for the Texas Senate’s balance of power meant the race drew increased attention from both parties. Flores’s win marked the culmination…
This week we cover three North Texas General Election races for seats in the House Chamber of the Texas Legislature. As we previously noted, there are few true swing districts in Texas. However, the highest concentration of Texas “swing” districts is in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Democrats are specifically targeting these districts ahead of Election…
This week we cover three General Election races for seats in the House Chamber of the Texas Legislature. As we previously noted, there are few true swing districts in Texas. Even so, Texas Republicans are intent on not losing any Republican held seats in light of the so-called “Blue Wave” Democrats have recently rallied around.…
This week, several committees met to discuss issues that will undoubtedly be debated during the 86th Legislature. The Senate Committee on Agriculture, Water and Rural Affairs met on Monday and Tuesday this week to review water law in Texas, specifically, how regulations and water rights permitting can be streamlined. On Tuesday, the Texas Commission on…
Primaries are over – time to look ahead at General Election races and the issues headed to the forefront of the next Legislative Session. There have already been rumors calling for a Special Legislative Session to address school violence in the wake of the Santa Fe High School shooting. In response to the tragedy, Governor…
Each parties list of nominees for the General Election is finally set. Only one of the 6 socially conservative backed Republican run-off candidates won their run-off, leaving traditional pro-business Republican candidates winning the remaining 5 run-offs. There were over 30 State and Congressional run-off elections and many took place in districts that heavily favor their…
As the run-offs for the Democratic Party and Republican Party primaries draw near (May 22, 2018), election buzz is in full swing with the remaining candidates entering the final stretch of the primaries. There are also a couple of special elections coming up in districts where the legislator resigned before the end of their term.…
This year’s March primary saw millions of dollars dumped into republican primary races from socially conservative republican groups, as well as establishment republican groups. It is clear the real battles are still fought in the primaries in Texas. There are several seats headed to run-offs pitting socially conservative republican candidates against establishment republican candidates. Primary…
It was an interesting and long night. Save for a few run-off elections, the dust of the 2018 primary has finally settled. Statewide: In statewide GOP Primary races, there were few stones left to be unturned as to who would win. However, a couple of statewide races were closely watched. Texas Land Commissioner – Incumbent…
Early voting is well underway for the Texas Primaries. Election Day is next Tuesday, March 6th. With a wide-open speaker’s race – all eyes are on who will win the primaries in the Texas House. The Republican Primary has several races where traditional pro-business Republicans and socially conservative Republicans are fighting it out for control…
Texas Lobby Group 2018 Election Update: Emerging from the lull of the holiday break, the 2018 election cycle is in full swing with the March primaries less than two months away. The cash on hand semiannual reports were due for candidates and state officeholders last Tuesday and with that there were a few surprising reports,…
The 2018 election cycle is looking to be a busy one, with 7 congressional retirements and numerous State House retirements, including the Speaker of the House, Joe Straus. As such, the Legislative deck is being shuffled. Early voting for primaries begins on February 20, 2018, and primary Election Day lands on March 6, 2018. The…
This morning, Texas Speaker of the House Joe Straus announced he will not seek re-election next year to the Texas House – thus giving up his role as Speaker of the Texas House of Representatives. Despite a number of retirements in the House, it was predicted that Straus would remain Speaker during the next Legislative…
Texas House Speaker Joe Straus released the full list of House interim charges on Monday, and Lt. Governor Dan Patrick released his first wave of Senate interim charges on Monday as well. The Lt. Governor is expected to release the rest of his interim charges later this week. A large number of charges focus on…
Texas voters have approved 491 amendments to the state Constitution since its adoption in 1876. Seven more proposed amendments will be submitted for voter approval at the general election on Tuesday, November 7, 2017. Listed below are descriptions of the seven proposed constitutional amendments. Proposition 1 Prop. 1 would fix a “technical” error in current…
In early September, Governor Greg Abbott announced the Governor’s Commission to Rebuild Texas, which will be led by Texas A&M University System Chancellor John Sharp. The Commission will oversee the response and relief effort between the state and local governments to ensure victims of the storm get everything they need as quickly as possible. The Commission will…
This week Governor Abbott announced several top-level staff changes. Abbott’s current Chief of Staff, Daniel Hodge, is entering the private sector and will be replaced by Luis Saenz. Mr. Saenz previously worked as Governor Abbott’s Appointments Director and before that worked in Governor Rick Perry’s administration. In his announcement, Governor Abbott praised his outgoing staff…
The first called Special Session of the 85th Legislature has officially come to a close, one-day short of the 30-day special session period. With less than 36 hours to go, the House agreed to Senate amendments to the public-school finance reform bill, HB 21 by Rep. Huberty (R – Humble) putting $ 351 million into public…
Lt. Governor Dan Patrick continues to move legislation through the Senate, having now sent over ten of Governor Abbott’s twenty special session items to the House. To do so, the Senate worked through the weekend. After a three-hour Republican Senator Caucus meeting, the Senate announced Monday it would attempt to hear ten to twelve bills…
The Regular Legislative Session is over and the Comptroller has certified Texas’ budget that spends over $79 billion on Health and Human services over the next two years. That is about 37% of the total budget and ranks as the second most expensive budget item only behind Education spending. The vast majority of this funding…
The Legislature will be back in session at 10 a.m. on July 18, 2017. Today, Governor Abbott issued the special session proclamation that formally allows legislators to file legislation for consideration during the special session. Although the Governor announced 20 items on the special session call, Governor Abbott has only signed a proclamation for so called “sunset” legislation that extends expiring state…
Texas’ 85th Regular Legislative Session has come and gone, and 1,211 bills have been signed into law – slightly below previous sessions’ average number of 1,300 – 1,400 bills. This below average number of effective bills is indicative of the challenges of the 85th Regular Session. Many bills died as they failed to reach key…
Governor Greg Abbott today announced a legislative special session that will begin on July 18th, 2017. In his announcement, Governor Abbott identified 20 items that will be included on the special session call. “Considering all the successes of the 85th legislative session, we should not be where we are today,” said Governor Abbott. A special…
As the 85th Legislature draws to a close, a series of end-of-session deadlines begin to take effect. Below is a list of deadlines that occur next week: Monday, May 8: Last day for house committees to report house bills and house joint resolutions. Tuesday, May 9: Deadline for house to distribute last House Daily Calendar with house…
By Carlos Uresti, March 29, 2017 at TribTalk. With a grim Texas budget outlook this legislative session, public universities, health care providers and state highways could all see significant cuts. Already, a hiring freeze has been declared across state agencies whose budgets are facing cuts of over 4 percent. Finding more items to cut has…
As filing deadline has come and gone, this Legislative Session breaks previous records for the number of bills filed! Total Number of Bills Filed this Session= 6,517 (The House filed 4,273 bills; The Senate filed 2,244 bills) Comparatively, the 84th Session saw 6,276 bills filed and in the previous Session before that (the 83rd) 5,868…
Texas professionals will have another certification option in growing field LEAWOOD, Kan. (February 13, 2017) – The state of Texas has approved the National Healthcareer Association’s (NHA) Exam for the Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT®) as a certification meeting the professional requirements of this growing field. Prior to the Texas State Board of Pharmacy (the Board)…
House Committee Details and Facts On Thursday, House Speaker Joe Straus announced House committee assignments. The speaker said, “We want to utilize House members’ strengths and allow them to work on issues that matter to their districts. Some very good members are taking on new challenges. I’m looking forward to their leadership. There is always…
Full listings linked below: AUSTIN – Speaker Joe Straus on Thursday announced Texas House committee assignments for the 85th Legislature. “We want to utilize Members’ strengths and allow them to work on issues that matter to their districts,” said Speaker Straus, R-San Antonio. There are 38 standing committees in the House. In addition, Speaker Straus…
The biennial rankings of Texas lobbyists and lobby teams were released today, and the Texas Lobby Group and its members topped the rankings, yet again. The Texas Lobby Group boasts three lobbyists that rank among the top 10 most powerful lobbyists: Mike Toomey at number 2, Bill Messer at number 5, and Lara Keel at…
There was never a dull moment in this election cycle and Election Day was equally full of shock and awe. At around 2 A.M. this morning, the Associated Press finally called the last swing state and Donald Trump was named President-Elect. Republicans continue control of Congress with a majority in both the House and the…
A historic Election Day is around the corner, November 8, 2016, and while the Presidential race garners most, if not all of the attention, down ballot races are key to Texas politics. Voter turnout in Texas is set to be record breaking. Over one million people have registered to vote since the March primary, bringing…
Teladoc, the Dallas-based company that sued Texas over its telemedicine regulations, has a new ally in the Federal Trade Commission. In a letter sent to the U.S. 5th Circuit Court late Friday, the federal antitrust agency sided with Teladoc in the company’s legal battle, criticizing the Texas Medical Board for allegedly misinterpreting case law. The…
ORLANDO, Fla. (Jun. 12, 2016) — UnitedHealthcare and Optum, the health benefits and services companies of UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH), are taking immediate action to support people affected by the recent mass shooting at a nightclub in Orlando. The company is opening Optum’s Help Line, providing affected residents access to specially trained mental health specialists. “Unexpected…
Family, friends and people who (mostly) like me, I know there are thousands of worthy causes out there. And I’m certain that you are often asked to donate your precious time, money and attention. I am reluctant to add to your “asks” list but I feel compelled because of such a worthy cause. Today, I…
All meetings are in Austin, Texas unless otherwise indicated. Information compiled from agency websites. Subcommittees may not be included in this calendar but full board and council meetings are listed. Legislative Committee hearings are included if related to health and human services. Texas Insight may not be reporting on all the meetings listed below. Those…
There was a time when the Texas Legislature had most of the power in the budget process. But those days have passed, and now the governor has an unprecedented amount of power when it comes to determining how money is spent in our state. That transfer of power began over ten years ago, and Mike…
The following meetings have been posted: May 5, 2016 1:30 p.m. — Austin Hospital Payment Advisory Committee May 10, 2016 3 p.m. — Austin Proposed amendment to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs Eligibility Requirements May 17, 2016 1 p.m. — Austin Employment First Task Force May 20, 2016 10 a.m. — Austin Advisory Committee on Qualifications…
The following meetings have been posted: May 2, 2016 10:30 a.m. — Austin Perinatal Advisory Council May 4, 2016 10 a.m. — Austin Texas Office for Prevention of Developmental Disabilities Executive Committee Meeting June 6, 2016 1 p.m. — Austin Public forum to discuss ways to strengthen Medicaid managed care provider networks, including online provider…
The following meetings have been posted: April 7, 2016 1 p.m. — Austin Intellectual and Developmental Disability System Redesign Advisory Committee Day Habilitation and Employment Subcommittee April 11, 2016 9:30 a.m. — Austin Proposed New Rules Related to Texas Healthcare Transformation and Quality Improvement Program Reimbursement April 13, 2016 10 a.m. — Austin Proposed Name…
A question has been raised as to whether the proposed public/private partnership for the San Antonio Convention & Visitors Bureau would affect the “transparency” of its operations. For example, Express-News editorial columnist Josh Brodesky suggested that such a partnership would lead to a “definite loss in openness and oversight.” On the contrary, as a recipient of hotel…
Super Tuesday has come and gone but the vote tallies of last night’s races will have a lasting effect on the upcoming legislative session. Ted Cruz secured a Texas-sized presidential primary win at 43.76%. Governor Greg Abbott, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick and several members of the Legislature have endorsed Cruz. All of the incumbent Congressional…
The following meetings have been posted: April 11, 2016 10 a.m. — Austin Intellectual and Developmental Disability System Redesign Advisory Committee Quality Subcommittee 1 p.m. — Austin Employment First Task Force April 12, 2016 9 a.m. — Austin Proposed Payment Rates for the Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services Program April 15, 2016 10 a.m. — Austin Palliative…
The following meetings have been posted: March 9, 2016 10 a.m. — Austin Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Stakeholder Forum 2 p.m. — Austin Task Force on Infectious Disease Preparedness and Response March 18, 2016 10 a.m. — Austin Advisory Committee on Qualifications for Health Care Translators and Interpreters March 23, 2016 10 a.m. — Austin Behavioral Health…
GALVESTON — University of Texas System regents are expected on Thursday to tap the system’s endowment for $45.8 million to underwrite three high-priority initiatives, including creating a statewide telemedicine network that would allow patients in rural areas to get specialty care without driving hundreds of miles. The Board of Regents, meeting in Galveston, is also…
It was all about the heart health at Insperity’s corporate headquarters in Kingwood Feb. 13. A day before Valentine’s Day and in an effort to raise awareness about heart disease, around 600 Insperity employees formed a large heart outside of their offices. They also presented a $10,000 check to the American Heart Association. “This event…
The following meetings have been posted: Feb. 17, 2016 9 a.m. — Belton STAR Kids – Client Information Session 1 p.m. — Belton STAR Kids – Provider Information Session Feb. 19, 2016 9:45 a.m. — Austin Proposed new Local Government and Community Input Requirements 11 a.m. — Austin Proposed amendments to Potentially Preventable Readmissions and Potentially Preventable Complications Feb.…
The following meetings have been posted: Feb. 12, 2016 10 a.m. — Austin Advisory Committee on Qualifications for Health Care Translators and Interpreters Feb. 18, 2016 9 a.m. — Austin Medical Care Advisory Committee Feb. 19, 2016 11 a.m. — Houston STAR Kids – Provider Information Session 1 p.m. — Austin Joint Committee on Access and Forensic Services Forensic…
Monday, Feb. 1, is the deadline to make sure you are registered to vote in the March 1 primary election. If you are not registered, it’s easy to sign up. Please visit this website for more information. If you aren’t sure if you are registered, you can click here to find out. The Texas Lobby…
The following meetings have been posted: Jan. 21, 2016 1 p.m. — Austin Intellectual and Developmental Disability System Redesign Advisory Committee Quality Subcommittee Jan. 22, 2016 9 a.m. — San Antonio STAR Kids – Client Information Session 2 p.m. — San Antonio STAR Kids – Provider Information Session 6 p.m. — San Antonio STAR Kids – Client Information Session…
Jan. 12, 2016 9 a.m. — Austin STAR Kids – Client Information Session 1 p.m. — Austin STAR Kids – Provider Information Session 6 p.m. — Austin STAR Kids – Client Information Session Jan. 14, 2016 9 a.m. — Lubbock STAR Kids – Client Information Session 1 p.m. — Lubbock STAR Kids – Provider Information Session 6 p.m. — Lubbock…
House Economic and Small Business Development (PUBLIC HEARING) THURSDAY – 01/07/16 12:00 p.m., E2.010 The Committee will meet to hear invited testimony regarding the following Interim Charges: #4 Oversee implementation of HB 26 (84R). Review best practices for measuring success of economic development incentives. Consider general metrics or principles to aid the Legislature in determining…
House Economic and Small Business Development (PUBLIC HEARING) New – 2:58pm THURSDAY – 01/07/16 12:00 p.m., E2.010 The Committee will meet to hear invited testimony regarding the following Interim Charges: #4 Oversee implementation of HB 26 (84R). Review best practices for measuring success of economic development incentives. Consider general metrics or principles to aid the…
As the hustle and bustle of the holiday season ushers us into the New Year, we would like to take a quick moment to say “thanks.” We greatly appreciate your friendship, business and trust. At the Texas Lobby Group, we pride ourselves in honesty, hard work and determination. With each year, we renew our continued…
House Appropriations (PUBLIC HEARING) THURSDAY – 12/10/15 10:00 a.m., E1.030 The Appropriations Committee will meet in a public hearing to hear testimony regarding the Texas Child Support Enforcement System 2.0. The Committee will hear invited testimony only. House Administration (PUBLIC HEARING) THURSDAY – 12/10/15 1:15 p.m., E2.014 The Committee will hold a public hearing relating…
MONDAY – 12/07/15 02:30 P.M., E1.012 The Select Committee on Property Tax Reform and Relief has scheduled an organizational hearing on Monday, December 7, 2015 at 2:30pm in E1.012. There will be no public testimony at this hearing.
Senate Education (PUBLIC HEARING) MONDAY – 12/7/15 10:00 a.m., E1.028 (Hearing Room) The Senate Committee on Education will meet to take up the following Interim Charges: ·Study the approval, expansion, and revocation of public charter schools in Texas, including the implementation of SB 2 (83R) and other legislation. In particular, examine the issues surrounding the disposition…
December 8, 2015 1:30 p.m. — Abilene Texas Health and Human Services System Transformation December 10, 2015 1:30 p.m. — Amarillo Texas Health and Human Services System Transformation
December 1, 2015 1 p.m. — Austin Intellectual and Developmental Disability System Redesign Advisory Committee Transition to Managed Care Subcommittee Meeting 2 p.m. — Austin Proposed amendment to Personal Care Services Provider Participation Requirements
The following meetings have been posted: November 20, 2015 10 a.m. — Austin Health and Human Services Commission Council 12 p.m. — Austin Texas Office for Prevention of Developmental Disabilities Executive Committee Meeting November 23, 2015 8:45 a.m. — Austin Proposed Medicaid Fee-For-Service Payment Rates for Pharmaceutical Providers 10 a.m. — Austin Proposed New Rules and Amendments Related to…
This week, Speaker of the House, Joe Straus, released his set of interim charges for all House standing and select committees. Interim charges give a snapshot of the issues leadership will focus on in the upcoming legislative session. Some highlights of the Speaker’s charges include: examining the growth of Texas Medicaid, studying the effectiveness of…
It was a somewhat predictable election night with a few surprises and a couple of runoffs to come. All 7 proposed constitutional amendments (aimed at cutting property taxes, boosting funding for road projects and reiterating Texans’ right to hunt and fish) sailed through last night with no amendment receiving less than 66 percent of the…
Early voting starts today for the Nov. 3 Election. This election, there are seven proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution on the ballot for voter approval. Below is a list of the seven proposed constitutional amendments and a short description. For more detailed information and resources regarding the amendments, please visit the Texas Legislative Council’s…
Today, Texas Lt. Governor Dan Patrick announced interim charges for the Health and Human Services (HHS) and Transportation Committees. Today’s announcement covers charges for the Senate Health and Human Services Committee and Transportation. The charges can be found here. Interim charges for the final installment of committees will be announced Wednesday.
Austin, Texas– October 9, 2015 – In the Summer 2015 issue of Southern Political Report Magazine, Texas Lobby Group was named one of the South’s “Top Government Affairs Firm and Lobbyists” in Texas. The rankings are based on the results of an online survey sent to lobbyists and government affairs specialists across 13 Southern states.…
This afternoon Lt. Governor Dan Patrick released the first set of interim charges for the following Senate committees: State Affairs, Agriculture, Water and Rural Affairs, and Natural Resources and Economic Development. Interim charges give a snapshot of the issues leadership will focus on in the upcoming Legislative session. Some of the highlights of today’s charges focus on…
This past week, the Innovation and Technology Caucus of the Texas House took a trip out to San Francisco, California to see how some of the United States’ biggest tech companies are innovating the world. One of the most anticipated stops was the Tesla Factory in Fremont, California. Texas Legislators received a private tour of…
The following meetings have been posted by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission September 18, 2015 – 9 a.m. — Austin Proposed Medicaid Payment Rates for Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy provided by Comprehensive Outpatient Rehabilitation Facilities/Outpatient Rehabilitation Facilities, Home Health Agencies and Independent Therapists September 23, 2015 – 9:30 a.m. — Austin Intellectual and Developmental Disability System Redesign…
Wednesday, September 2, 2015, Governor Greg Abbott announced the appointment of Heather Griffith Peterson, Billy Hamilton and John Colyandro to the newly created Health and Human Service Transition Legislative Oversight Committee. The Committee, created by Senate Bill 200 during the 84th Legislative Session, is tasked with aiding the executive commissioner of the Health and Human Services…
The following meetings have been posted: July 10, 2015 9 a.m. — Austin Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Council July 14, 2015 10 a.m. — Austin Task Force on Domestic Violence 1 p.m. — Austin The Intellectual and Developmental Disability (IDD) System Redesign Advisory Committee July 20, 2015 9 a.m. — Austin Proposed Medicaid Payment Rates for Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy provided by…
Today, the National Association of Professional Employer Organizations (NAPEO) thanked Texas Governor Greg Abbott for signing a bill that protects small businesses from paying double employment taxes. Small businesses across Texas that enter into a relationship with a professional employer organization after January 1st will now be protected from overtaxation. “We thank Governor Abbott for his support of…
We are reaching that part of the Session – with two and a half weeks left – where major deadlines hit and bills either live, die, or (in some cases) find another vehicle to cross the finish line! The first of the major deadlines to pass legislation this Session passed yesterday. Thursday was the last day for…
Despite the state of Texas’ recent decline in job creation, the Lone Star state appears to still be the country’s top destination for doing business and creating business opportunity. CEO Magazine’s 11th annual survey of the “Best States to do Business” was released Friday and Texas topped the rankings for the 11th year in a…
The House and Senate both adjourned last Thursday. Today, they are both back and with just over a month left in the Regular Session, this week is turning into make or break time. In fact, today the Senate Intent Calendar has 66 bills on it. The budget is moving along, with conferees appointed at the…
Let the Conference Committee on the Budget – H.B. 1 – Begin! The Senate Conferees are: Chairwoman Jane Nelson Senator Joan Huffman Senator Chuy Hinojosa Senator Lois Kolkhorst Senator Joan Huffman
The Conferees on House Bill 1 – the State Budget – in the House have been announced. This group of individuals will work with Senate Conferees, once appointed, to craft the overall budget for the next Biennium. The House Conferees are: Chairman, John Otto Representative Sylvester Turner Representative Trent Ashby Representative Sarah Davis Representative Larry…
The following meetings have been posted: April 27, 2015 1:30 p.m. — Austin Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program Regional Advisory Committee April 28, 2015 10 a.m. — Austin Texas System of Care Consortium 10 a.m. — Fort Worth Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program Regional Advisory Committee 10 a.m. — San Antonio Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program…
The Session clock continues its tick tock, with only six weeks remaining for this Legislative Session. The one item the Legislature must pass is the state budget. The good news is that the budget has been passed by both Houses and we are now awaiting the appointment of the House and Senate budget conferees. These…
Chamber Committee Members Time Location Agenda Video Witness list Minutes House International Trade & Intergovernmental Affairs Members 8:00 A.M. E1.014 Agenda – – – House Transportation (Designation and Naming of Roads and Plates) Members 10:00 A.M. JHR 140 Agenda – – – House Transportation S/C on Long-term Infrastructure Planning Members 11:00 A.M. JHR 140…
House Bill 1 – The State Budget on the House side of the aisle – passed committee today as substituted and will be up on the House Floor one week from today. Bill: HB 1 Legislative Session: 84(R) Last Action: 03/24/2015 H Committee report distributed: Mar 24 2015 11:58AM Caption Version: Introduced Caption Text: General…
Capitol Inside has again placed the Texas Lobby Group in the top spots of their Top Hired Gun Lobbyist rankings. Mike Toomey and Bill Messer are ranked as the No. 2 and No. 4 Hired Gun Lobbyists in the State and Lara Keel remains the highest ranked female lobbyist in Texas at No. 11 overall.…
It was less than four weeks ago that we were gathered on the south steps of the Texas capitol to celebrate a NEW DAY in Texas. During the inauguration ceremony, Governor Abbott and I talked about delivering on the promises we made throughout our campaigns. I am happy to report that I am working quickly…
The following meetings have been posted: February 16, 2015 8 a.m. — San Antonio Medicaid Electronic Visit Verification Provider Training February 17, 2015 8 a.m. — San Antonio Medicaid Electronic Visit Verification Provider Training February 19, 2015 8 a.m. — Lubbock Medicaid Electronic Visit Verification Provider Training February 20, 2015 8 a.m. — Lubbock Medicaid Electronic Visit Verification Provider…
House Committee Assignments are out! Let the Games Begin! Click to view or download .pdf files:
Tesla Motors (TSLA) Gears Up To Overturn Sales Ban In Texas Tesla is readying another move to overturn the sales ban in Texas by recruiting more high profile lobbyists to push the matter in Texas courts. Tesla Motors Inc (NASDAQ:TSLA) is readying yet another lobbying blitz against Texas lawmakers and auto dealerships to push a…
The following meetings have been posted: January 23, 2015 10 a.m. — Austin Advisory Committee on Qualifications for Health Care Translators and Interpreters January 27, 2015 10 a.m. — Austin Texas System of Care Consortium January 29, 2015 9 a.m. — Austin Drug Utilization Review Board January 30, 2015 9 a.m. — Austin Pharmaceutical and Therapeutics Committee February 11, 2015…
As state legislators seek higher office, three special legislative elections held January 5 have headed for runoffs. None of the three races had a candidate meet the 50% threshold needed to avoid a runoff, but each race has a clear frontrunner. In Senate District 26, house representatives Trey Martinez Fischer (D-San Antonio) and Jose Menendez…
The following meetings have been posted: January 15, 2015 9 a.m. — Austin Promoting Independence Advisory Committee 10:30 p.m. — Austin Intellectual and Developmental Disability System Redesign Advisory Committee – Transition to Managed Care Sub-Committee Meeting January 20, 2015 8:45 a.m. — Austin Intellectual and Developmental Disability System Redesign Advisory Committee Housing Sub-Committee Meeting January 22, 2015 1:30…
SUBJECT: Office hours during the end of the year holidays DATE: December 22, 2013 In observance of the Holiday season, The Texas Lobby Group will have the following schedule: We will be closed Monday, December 22, 2014 and will be back in the office for normal office hours on Monday, January 5, 2015. We will be checking the office voicemail periodically and our email…
AUSTIN – Texas Governor-elect Greg Abbott today announced personnel to fill key staff positions in his incoming administration, in addition to outlining his priorities for the upcoming legislative session, which include education, border security, economic expansion and tax reduction. “On Election Night, I made a promise to the people of Texas to begin work immediately to keep Texas the beacon of opportunity…
For Immediate Release: Contact: Lara Keel Lara@txlobby.com (512) 473-2646 Former Republican Caucus Director Carrie Simmons joins Texas Lobby Group Austin, TX – Texas Lobby Group proudly announces the addition of Carrie Simmons to the firm. Simmons will work with the firm’s clients to promote and drive legislative solutions. “Carrie has a depth of knowledge and…
November 5, 2014 Republicans Continue to Dominate Texas For all of the talk of “Turning Texas Blue,” it turned increasingly even more red last night. For the first time in the 21st Century, without Governor Perry running for Governor, a new slate of Republican officeholders were on the ballot. Republicans swept the statewide offices for…
Below is the list of candidates TLRPAC endorses in contested races in the November 4th election. They deserve your support and we hope you will vote for them and encourage your family and friends to do so as well. Please remember to vote all the way down the ballot, including for legislative and judicial candidates. Personal injury trial…
We realize many of you may have already voted. If you haven’t, please take the time to vote tomorrow, and tell your friends and colleagues to do the same. This is a critical election. Not only are we choosing a new leadership team for Texas, we are deciding on a new funding source for much needed…
The following meetings have been posted: November 5, 2014 1 p.m. — Austin Promoting Independence Advisory Committee Community First Choice Work Session November 7, 2014 1 p.m. — Austin Interagency Task Force for Children with Special Needs November 12, 2014 1:30 p.m. — Austin Proposed Medicaid Payment Rate for the Blind Children’s Vocational Discovery and Development Program November…
The following meetings have been posted: October 13, 2014 9 a.m. — Austin Home and Community Based Services Rules Stakeholder Meeting October 14, 2014 11:30 a.m. — Austin Health and Human Services Commission Council October 16, 2014 1:30 p.m. — Austin STAR+PLUS Stakeholder Meeting October 21, 2014 9 a.m. — Austin Council on Children and Families 10 a.m. — San…
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission has posted the following meeting dates: July 9, 2014 3 p.m. — Austin Employment First Task Force: Workgroup on Texas Workforce Commission Services July 10, 2014 9 a.m. — Lubbock STAR+PLUS Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Provider Training July 11, 2014 8:30 a.m. — Austin Traumatic Brain Injury Advisory Council Legislative and…
After a flurry of campaign commercials and (mostly negative) mail pieces, the primary run-off has come and gone. With the Election Day occurring on the Tuesday following the Memorial Day holiday (May 27), turnout was predictably low. Thunderstorms occurring across the state likely lowered turnout further. This election cycle pit Republican vs. Republican in a…
The Lieutenant Governor today (03/19/2014) released select interim charges for the following Senate Committees: Health & Human Services Committee Evaluate the current state of prescription drug abuse and strategies for reducing prescription drug abuse in Texas. Make recommendations on how these policies can be improved or modified to enhance the State of Texas’ handling of…
Last night was the long-awaited Primary of 2014. For the first time in over 20 years, Texas Governor Rick Perry was not on the statewide ballot. The result of that was numerous Republicans running in hotly contested statewide primaries – against each other. All of which, will result in run-offs. (Unless State Senator Glenn Hegar…
Senate Committee on Health & Human Services February 20, 2014 – 9:00 AM Capitol Extension Building, Room E1.036, Finance Room, Austin The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services will take up the following charges: Child Protective Services – Review the Department of Family and Protective Services. efforts to reduce child fatalities. Review the process…
Today, Speaker Joe Straus issued interim charges to every standing committee in the Texas House of Representatives. The charges highlight some of the issues that the House will study and investigate to prepare for the next legislative session, which will begin in January 2015. Friday’s charges are based on requests and suggestions made by House…
The filing deadline has come and gone. See who has filed for elected office in your county at the Secretary of State website (https://webservices.sos.state.tx.us/candidate-filing/cf-report.aspx). A more detailed breakdown will soon follow. The candidate filing information displayed here is collected pursuant to Tex. H.B. 3103, 83rd Leg., R.S. (2013). This information is provided by the Republican…
Texas Political News: House District 50 Special Election Special Election in House District 50 ‚Äì In the House District 50 special election to fill the unexpired term of Representative Mark Strama (D-Austin), there will be a run-off between the lone Republican candidate – Austin chiropractor Mike VanDeWalle, and Democrat Celia Israel. The Secretary of State…
Early voting starts TODAY for the state’s constitutional propositions election, as well as various local issue elections. Early voting continues through Friday, Nov. 1. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 5. To view the Constitutional Amendments you can go to: http://votetexas.gov/voting/what Also, this is the first election cycle in which you will need photo identification in…
As we reported yesterday, it was likely that more legislative retirements or resignations would be coming… but this one was a real shock. Senator Tommy Williams (R-The Woodlands) and the Chair of the Senate Finance Committee has confirmed he will resign his Senate seat. Chairman Williams recently considered a run for State Comptroller, only to…
Texas Lobby Group October 2013 Newsletter With the Regular and three Special Sessions finally over, the focus in Austin has turned from policy to politics. The March primaries are just 150 days away. All state-wide executive office holders are up for reelection as well as all members of the Texas House of Representatives. With Governor…
Texas 2013 Legislative Session Ends Last night, the Texas Legislature found the third time was a charm! The House and Senate passed HB 1 and SJR 1 in a compromise plan to fund transportation. After almost seven months in Austin for a Regular Session and two thirty day Special Sessions, the third called Special Session…
Texas Political News: Rick Perry Announces He Will Not Seek Re-election Today, Rick Perry, the longest serving Governor of Texas announced that he will not seek re-election. Surrounded by his family and numerous former staffers, Governor Perry made the announcement from San Antonio today. “I remain excited about the future, and the challenges ahead, but…
Texas Special Legislative Session Update for July 3rd 2013 In The News: 7/3 – Rep. Krause twitter: At last night’s hearing, 2181 people registered in support of #hb2 and 1355 against. 7/3 – KVUE: House Bill 2 passes committee; hundreds not allowed to testify. See Video. 7/3 – Office of Governor Perry twitter: The State Affairs…
Texas Special Legislative Session Update for Tuesday, July 2nd 2013 The House adjourned until 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 9, 2013. HB 2 was reported favorably from State Affairs without amendmentsThe Senate recessed until 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 9, 2013. Tuesday’s Senate Calendar is online. In The News: 7/2 – PPP: Davis popular but trails Perry…
Texas Political News: July 1 Special Session Agenda The House will convene at 2:00 p.m., Monday, July 1, 2013. The Senate will convene at 2:00 p.m., Monday, July 1, 2013. Hegar files SB 1, Abortion Bill. The Governor has called a Special Session for July 1st at 2:00 P.M. The Call will consist of the following:…
BREAKING NEWS: First Special Session Closes. Governor Perry Calls Second Special Session Midnight of June 25th marked the end of the first called Special Session. The House finally adjourned Sine Die at 6:21PM. In the House’s final days, 4 bills were passed. SB 2, SB 3, and SB 4 were legislation relating to composition of…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Tuesday, June 25th, 2013 The House adjourned sine die. Speaker issued a proclamation expanding the scope of the Select Committee on Transparency in State Agency Operations to monitor conduct of executive appointees, including university regents. The Senate adjourned sine die. Lt. Governor Dewhurst announced that SB 5 could not be…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Monday, June 24th, 2013 The House recessed until 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 25, 2013. The Senate recessed until 7:00 p.m., Monday, June 24, 2013. Senate Items Eligible Calendar A motion to suspend the 24 hour layout rule on SB 5 fails with a vote of 19Y 11N. Note: Time…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Friday, June 21st, 2013 The House recessed until 2:00 p.m., Sunday, June 23, 2013. Sunday’s Calendar has been set. The Senate recessed until 1:00 p.m., Sunday, June 23, 2013. Note: Time Warner has notified us that there will be routine maintenance on Wednesday, June 26, between 1am and 5am…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Thursday, June 20th, 2013 In the News: 6/20 – Rep. Guillen twitter: Rare veto override sought to restore Public Integrity Unit funding. Read Here. 6/20 – Rep. Martinez Fischer twitter: Redistricting tango dances between courts and the Capitol. Read Here. 6/20 – Rep. Dale twitter: Rep. Dale evaluates first legislative…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Wednesday, June 19th, 2013 The House adjourned until 10:00 a.m., Thursday, June 20, 2013. Calendar’s set SB 23 for Friday. Calendar’s is tentatively expecting to set the Transportation bill for Sunday and then Abortion for Monday however the bills will not be received/referred to committee until Thursday. State…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Tuesday, June 18th, 2013 In the News: 6/18 – Rep. Stickland twitter: Texas governor signs strongest email privacy law in the US. Read Here. 6/18 – Rep. Martinez-Fischer twitter: Supreme Court strikes down AZ law requiring proof of citizenship for registration. Read Here. 6/18 – Rep. Walle twitter: Supreme Court…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Monday, June 17th, 2013 The House adjourned until 10:00 a.m., Thursday, June 20, 2013. The Senate recessed until 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, June 18, 2013. Bills Vetoed Official veto proclamations and line item vetoes are available in the Index of Options page for each bill. Note: Time Warner has notified…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Friday, June 14th, 2013 The House recessed until 10:00 a.m., Monday, June 17, 2013. The Governor signed SB 21 (drug screening) The Senate recessed until 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, June 18, 2013. The Senate passed all bills on the Calendar. All of the Abortion bills and the Transportation bill…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Thursday, June 13th, 2013 The House recessed until 10:00 a.m., Monday, June 17, 2013. The Senate recessed until 9:30 a.m., Friday, June 14, 2013. The Senate will take up the Redistricting Bills and Juvenile Justice (SB 23) on Friday and plans to consider the other bills in the…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Wednesday, June 12th, 2013 The House recessed until 10:00 a.m., Monday, June 17, 2013. The Senate recessed until 9:30 a.m., Friday, June 14, 2013. The Senate will take up the Redistricting Bills on Friday and consider other bills in the Call on Monday or Tuesday. SB 23 (Juvenile…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Tuesday, June 11th, 2013 The House recessed until 10:00 a.m., Monday, June 17, 2013. The Senate adjourned until 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 12, 2013. Finance and Criminal Justice have posted hearings for Wednesday and Health has posted for Thursday. Governor Opens the Call… 6/11 – The Governor has…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Monday, June 10th, 2013 The House recessed until 10:00 a.m., Monday, June 17, 2013. The Senate adjourned until 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 12, 2013. The Governor signed HB 5 and 5 other education bills. (SB 441, HB 809, HB 842, HB 2201 and HB 3662). Note: The House…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Friday, June 7th, 2013 The House recessed until 10:00 a.m., Monday, June 17, 2013. The Senate adjourned until 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 12, 2013. Note: The House and Senate adjourned/recessed pending the receipt and referral of bills. If the call was opened, bills could be referred without waiting…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Wednesday, June 5th, 2013 The House recessed until 10:00 a.m., Monday, June 17, 2013. The Comptroller has certified the budget and sent the bills to the Governor’s Office. (SB 1, HB7, HB 1025 and HB 3188). The Senate recessed until 1:00 p.m., Thursday, June 6, 2013. A new…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Friday, May 31st The House adjourned until 2:00 p.m., Monday, June 3, 2013. At a press conference Friday, Governor Perry stated that he might be opening the call to other issues. House Committee on Redistricting will hold public hearings on Friday, May 31, and Saturday, June 1, at…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Friday, May 24th The House recessed until 1:10 p.m., Monday, May 27, 2013. The Senate recessed until 3:00 p.m., Monday, May 27, 2013. Senator Estes becomes president pro tempore. Senate Caucus at 2:50 p.m.. SB 1 – Conference Committee Report HR 2700 – Outside the bounds resolution for…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Thursday, May 23rd The House adjourned until 10:00 a.m., Friday, May 24, 2013. Friday Items Eligible (TLS)The Senate recessed until 11:00 a.m., Friday, May 24, 2013. Thursday Items Eligible Calendar SB 1 – Conference Committee Report HR 2700 – Outside the bounds resolution for SB 1 – Part…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Wednesday, May 22nd The House adjourned until 10:00 a.m., Thursday, May 23, 2013. Thursday House Calendar (TLS) Thursday’s Items Eligible New Conference Committee Reports: SB 176, SB 971, SB 901, SB 200, HB 429 The Senate adjourned until 10:00 P.M., Wednesday, May 22, 2013. Wednesday Items Eligible Calendar…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Tuesday, May 21st The House recessed until 1:50 p.m., Tuesday, May 21, 2013. Wednesday Local Calendar (TLS) Tuesdays Items Eligible Calendar (TLS) Prefiled amendments to SB 1560 (5/21) House Research Organization Floor Report for Tuesday House Congratulatory and Memorial Calendar scheduled for 10:00 a.m., Wednesday Local Calendar scheduled for…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Friday, May 17th The House adjourned until 10:00 a.m., Monday, May 20, 2013. Monday Local Calendar Calendar’s added bills to Monday’s Calendar. House Local Calendar for Friday There will be Local and Consent Calendars set for Monday and Wednesday Today’s Item’s Eligible Calendars #1 and #2 (TLS) House Items…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for thursday, May 16th The House recessed until 9:00 a.m., Friday, May 17, 2013. House Local Calendar for Friday House Congratuatory and Memorial Calendar for Friday Today’s Item’s Eligible Calendars #1 and #2 (TLS) House Items Eligible Calendar Items Eligible #2 House Research Organization Floor Report for Friday The Senate…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Wednesday, May 15th The House adjourned until 10:00 a.m., Thursday, May 16, 2013. Calendars added bills to Friday’s Calendar and set bills for Monday. There was no talk of a Saturday Calendar. Wednesday Items Eligible Calendar Items Eligible Calendar #2 Prefiled amendments to SB 209 (5/16) House Research…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Tuesday, May 14th The House adjourned until 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, May 15, 2013. Calendars added bills to Thursday and posted Friday’s Calendar. Wednesday Items Eligible Calendar Congratulatory and Memorial Calendar for Wednesday Prefiled amendments to SB 215 (5/15) Insurance, on adj., E2.026, reconvene Human Services, on adj., E2.030…
The House adjourned until 2:00 p.m., Monday, May 13, 2013. Calendar’s added bills to Wednesday Calendar and posted a Calendar for Thursday. Tuesday Local Calendar Monday Items Eligible Calendar Prefiled amendments SB 211 (5/14) Prefiled amendments SB 217 (5/14) House Research Organization Floor Report for Monday Calendars, 2:30 p.m., 3W9, consider a calendar Transparency,…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Friday, May 10th The House adjourned until 2:00 p.m., Monday, May 13, 2013. The Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday Calendars are online. The Conference Committee on SB 1 meets on Monday. Monday Items Eligible Calendar House Research Organization Floor Report for Friday Pensions, 12:45 p.m., 3W9, SB 1458 Public Education,…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Thursday, May 9th The House recessed until 1:40 p.m., Thursday, May 9, 2013. Conference Committee Reports online: HB 1600 House Local Calendar for Friday Items Eligible Calendar #2 House Research Organization Floor Report for Thursday – Part 1 Items Eligible Calendar for Thursday Prefiled Amendment to HB 548…
The House adjourned until 10:00 a.m., Thursday, May 9, 2013. If you want to be notified any time a committee suspends the rules to meet, select “Track” above> then Create of Modify> under Alter Track Names select the email or device> then Select committees for notification. House Items Eligible. Prefiled Amendment to HB 548 (5/8) Senate adjourned until…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Tuesday, May 7th The House recessed until 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, May 8, 2013. To view important deadlines, under “Today’s Events” on the right hand side of the screen, select “More”. House Items Eligible House Items Eligible list #2 House Local Calendar for 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, May 8, 2013…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Monday, May 6th The House adjourned until 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, May 7, 2013. Congratulatory and Memorial Calendar for 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, May 8 Prefiled amendments to HB 500(5/7) Prefiled amendments to HB 1790 (5/7) The Senate adjourned until 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, May 7, 2013. Senate Local Calendar for…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Friday, May 3rd The House adjourned until 10:00 a.m., Monday, May 6, 2013. Calendar’s Committee added bills to Tuesday’s Calendar on Sunday at 7:00 p.m.. Prefiled amendments to HB 1897(5/6) The Senate adjourned until 11:00 a.m., Monday, May 6, 2013. The Senate intends to now take up HB…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Thursday, May 2nd The House adjourned until 2:00 p.m., Thursday, May 2, 2013. Bills were added to Saturday’s Calendar and Monday and Tuesday’s Calendar have been set. HB 500 is on Tuesday’s Calendar available above. House Research Organization Floor Report for Thursday Prefiled Amendment to HB 2289 (5/4)…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Wednesday, May 1st The House recessed until 10:00 a.m., Thursday, May 2, 2013. Prefiled Amendment to HB 2289 (5/4) House Local Calendar for Thursday Friday, May 10, member softball game at Texas State University The Senate adjourned until 11:00 a.m., Thursday, May 2, 2013. Senate recessed until 8:00…
Texas Lobby Group Update: Texas Transparency Now The following text is from an email sent out by Susan Combs. The Texas Lobby Group is posting this text as a public service for all who seek political transparency in Texas and support Ms. Combs efforts toward this cause. We had an exciting day in Austin recently,…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Tuesday, April 30th The House adjourned until 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, May 1, 2013. Calendar’s added bills to the Thursday, Friday and Saturday Calendar that can be viewed above. Calendar’s is meeting again at 5:00 p.m.. NOTE: When an Items Eligible Calendar becomes available, text messages and emails will…
Texas Legislative Session Update: Report for Monday, April 29th The House adjourned until 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 30, 2013. NOTE: When an Items Eligible Calendar becomes available, text messages and emails will go out and a note will appear here. Prefiled Amendment to HB 2289 (5/4) House Congratulatory and Memorial Calendar for Wednesday House Local…
Texas Legislative Session Update: Report for Wednesday, April 25th The House adjourned until 10:00 a.m., Friday, April 26, 2013. Prefiled Amendments for HB 1025 (4/26) The House Calendar for Wednesday, May 1 is now online above. Democratic Caucus, on adj., E1.026 Ways, HB 2488, 2385, 2370, 2497, HJR 115, 2:00 pm or adj., 4/29, E2.014 Human…
Texas Legislative Session Update: Report for Wednesday, April 24th The House recessed until 10:00 a.m., Thursday, April 25, 2013. Prefiled Amendment for HB 2198 (4/25) Prefiled Amendments for HB 1025 (4/26) House Local Calendar for Thursday, April 25 House Congratulatory and Memorial Calendar for Wednesday, April 24 Calendars Committee added bills to the Calendar for April…
83rd Legislative Report: Time Ticking on Legislature by JM Lozano The end of April marks the beginning of the end for the Texas Legislature. The Texas Constitution requires us to adjourn 140 days after we start. This year, that means May 27th is our last day to conduct business. By this point in the session,…
83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Tuesday, April 23rd The House adjourned until 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, April 24, 2013. Prefiled Amendment for HB 1675 (4/24) Prefiled Amendment to HB 3361 (4/24) Prefiled Amendments for HB 1025 (4/26) House Local Calendar for Thursday, April 25 House Congratulatory and Memorial Calendar for Wednesday, April 24 Special Purpose Districts, HB 1260…
83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Thursday, April 18th The House adjourned until 1:00 p.m., Monday, April 22, 2013. Prefiled amendments to HB 528 (4/22) Deadline for amendments to HB 1025, supplemental appropriation bill, on Tuesday, 10:00 a.m. The Senate adjourned until 2:00 p.m., Monday, April 22, 2013.
83rd Legislative Session Update: Report for Thursday, April 18th The House adjourned until 9:00 a.m., Friday, April 19, 2013. Prefiled amendments to HB 528 (4/22) Public Education, on adj., 3W15, pending business Public Health, 8:30 a.m., 4/19, 1W14, pending business High Education, on adj., Desk #94, pending businses Land, on adj., Desk #47, HB 2003 County,…
Texas Lobbyist News: Governor Perry Proposes Tax Relief for Businesses Gov. Perry Proposes Tax Relief for Texas Businesses Four-point plan to reduce business taxes by nearly $1.6 billion AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today announced a four-point plan to provide nearly $1.6 billion in tax relief to all Texas businesses currently subject to the state’s…
The House adjourned until 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 9, 2013. Next weeks Calendars have been set and are now online Local Calendars, 2:15 p.m., 1W14, set a local calendar Local Calendar set for 10:00 a.m., Thursday, April 11 Transparency, 1pm, 4/9, JHR 140, Cancer Prevention Institute of Texas Transportation, 8am, 4/9, E2.012, posting suspended on…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: April 5th, 2013 Legislative Update from the Texas Lobby Group The Legislative Session is more than halfway over. 52 Days remain. Dozens of bills are being heard in Committees and the Senate and House Floor Calendars are getting longer and longer…. This week, both the House and Senate passed local…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session News: Senate Panel Considers Revised Gun Training Requirements The following is a digest of a story originally published at the Austin American Statesman. The Texas Lobby Group is posting this summary as a public service to citizens of Texas interested in the 83rd Legislative Session. Texas lawmakers are considering a proposal…
The House adjourned until 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 2, 2013. Prefiled amendments to HB 2472 House Local Calendar for Wednesday, April 3 Congratultory and Memorial Calendar for Wednesday Prefiled amendments to SB 1 The Tuesday April 9th and Wednesday April 10th Calendars have been set and are available above. Energy, on adj., Desk #108, pending…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: March 26, 2013 The Senate adjourned until 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, March 27, 2013. Senate Local Calendar at 11:00 A.M. or recess, Wednesday, March 27th SB 894, SB 507 rules suspension to add for Wednesday Open Gov, On Adj., Senate Floor, SB 121, 457 and 656 Ag., On Adj., Senate Floor,…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: March 25, 2013 The House adjourned until 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, March 26, 2013. Prefiled Amendments to HB 5 Calendar rule: Amendments to HB 4 need to be filed by 2:00 p.m., Tuesday Calendar rule: Amendments to SB 1 need to be filed by 5:00 p.m., Thursday and amendments on 2nd…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Updates: March 21, 2013 The House adjourned until 2:30 p.m., Monday, March 25, 2013. SB 1 has been voted from Appropriations. Calendar rule: Amendments to HB 5 need to be filed by 2:00 p.m., Monday Calendar rule: Amendments to HB 4 need to be filed by 2:00 p.m., Tuesday Public Health,…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Updates: March 20, 2013 The House adjourned until 10:00 a.m., Thursday, March 21, 2013. Criminal Jurisprudence, on adj., 3W9, HB 1192 and pending business International Relations and Trade, on adj., 3W15, pending business Appropriations, 8:30 a.m., 3/21, E1.030, add SB 1 Calendar rule: Amendments to HB 5 need to be prefiled…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Updates: Senate Floor Announcements for March 19, 2013 The Senate adjourned until 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, March 20, 2013. · Committees to meet during bill referrals. · Jur to meet at 2:00 p.m.. · Health to meet at 1:30 p.m.. · Natural Resources at 1:20 p.m. · Briefing on SB 1 for…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Updates: House Floor Amendments for March 19, 2013 1 Amend C.S.H.B. No. 1000 (house committee printing) on page 2, 2 between lines 23 and 24, by adding the following: 3 (f) The board has all the powers and duties provided by 4 prior law, as that law existed at the time…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Congratulatory and Memorial Calendar Wednesday, March 20, 201310:00 AM ********** CONGRATULATORY RESOLUTIONS ********** HCR 47 Canales Commending Ciro Treviño on his legacy of public service. HCR 81 Bonnen, Dennis Commemorating the 50th anniversary of the agreement between the State of Texas and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. HR 44 King, Phil /…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Resources Texas legislators file thousands of bills during each session. Keeping up with what has been filed, who filed it, and the current status of the bill is a challenge. The Texas Tribune has produced a very good online resource for this. There is a large chart showing the numbers of…
Texas Lobbyist News: Certified EMS, Inc. v. Potts Numerous appellate decisions in Texas have addressed whether an expert report must examine each theory of liability alleged in a suit under the Texas Medical Liability Act, with conflicting results. On Friday, February 15th, the Texas Supreme Court settled the matter in Certified EMS, Inc. v. Potts.…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: Bill Would Use Car-Part Taxes for Highways The following is a digest of an article from the Dallas Morning News by Tom Benning on February 12th, 2013. Texas highways are funded in large part by motor fuels tax, and top lawmakers are looking to boost the state’s road fund with…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Report: Texas Tuition Promise Fund Helps Save for College The following is a digest of an article from the Times Record News on Feb. 11th, 2013. Texas families still have time to lock in costs at Texas public colleges and universities at today’s prices to avoid future increases in tuition and…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Report: Bill Would Let Districts Train Students on Guns The following digest is from an article by Ericka Mellon and Kolten Parker in the Houston Chronicle, February 12th, 2013. State Rep. James White has filed a bill that would allow school districts to offer an elective course on gun training and safety…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Report: Comptroller Backs Transparency Bills The following is a digest of a story that originally appeared at the Times Record News on February 9th, 2013. Texas Comptroller Susan Combs joined legislative leadership Thursday to announce the filing of legislation aimed at improving government transparency and empowering taxpayers to make informed decisions…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session News: 5 Tarrant Freshmen Making Name in the House The following is a digest of a story originally published at the Fort Worth Star Telegram. The Texas Lobby Group is posting this summary as a public service for all Texas lobbyists, Texas Government Consultants, and other politically interested parties. Tarrant County’s…
Texas Lobbyist News: Texas Has a Remarkable Record on Air Quality The following is a digest of a story originally published at the Austin American Statesman. The Texas Lobby Group is posting this summary as a public service for all state lobbyists, government officials, political consultants, and other interested parties. EPA officials have manipulated unsound…
Texas Lobby Group Tops in Capitol Inside’s Lobbyist Rankings for 2013 The Texas Lobby Group has again topped Capitol Inside’s Top Hired Gun Lobbyist rankings. Mike Toomey and Bill Messer are ranked the No. 2 and No. 3 Hired Gun Lobbyists in the State and Lara Keel is the highest ranked female lobbyist in Texas…
Texas Lobby Group 83rd Legislative Session Report: Senate Term Draws After the House and Senate redraw their lines through the Redistricting process, the Texas State Senate “draws” to see who will get a four year term and who will get a 2 year term. Senators – obviously – hope for a four year “draw” so…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session: Rick Perry on the Upcoming Budget Considerations Although Texas’s economy has been struggling, it has been doing remarkably well compared to many other states. In the current Legislative session, representatives will be debating the 2014-2015 state budget. The budget has an estimated 96.2 billion dollars in new revenue. Governor Rick Perry…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Report: The 83rd Session To Be One of the Most Conservative Ever The following is a digest of an article originally found at the Fort Worth Star Telegram. The Texas Lobby Group is posting this summary as a public service for lobbyists, politicians, consultants, and others interested in the 83rd Legislative…
83rd Legislature News: Water Significant Issue for Texas Legislators The following is a digest of an article from the Texas Tribune. The Texas Lobby Group is posting this summary as a service for the 83rd Texas Legislative Session and for any lobbyists, politicians, consultants, or politically interested persons. Over the last several years, Texas has…
Texas Lobby Group Report: The Texas 83rd Legislative Session is Underway With 44 new House members and five new Senators, the new Session begins with a bunch of new faces! The composition of the Legislature is still strongly Republican and more Conservative. The House of Representatives has 95 Republicans and 55 Democrats. The Senate has…
Texas 83rd Legislative Session Shows Strong Conservative Leadership The following is a digest of a recent article by Mike Hailey of Capitol Inside. The Texas Lobby Group is posting this summary of the 83rd Texas legislative session as a public service for Texas lobbyists, Texas government officials and consultants, and other interested parties. Both the…
Texas Lobbyist News: California residents leaving state in droves. Many are heading to Texas. The following is a digest of an article originally appearing at the NBC Los Angeles website. The Texas Lobby Group is posting this summary as a public service for all Texas citizens, other Texas lobbyists and lobbying groups, Texas political consultants,…
Texas Lobby Group Holiday Hours The Texas Lobby Group is a full service Lobbying firm, based in Austin Texas. Our holiday hours are as follows: FROM: Mike Toomey Bill Messer Lara Keel Michael Garcia SUBJECT: Office hours during the end of the year holidays DATE: December 19, 2012 In observance of the Holiday season, The Texas…
Texas Lobbyist News: Election Update from the Texas Lobby Group Following redistricting and a summer of primaries and run-offs, the numbers of the Texas Legislature have changed very little. The Senate will continue to have 19 Republicans and 12 Democrats. The House will go from 102 Republicans to 95 and 55 Democrats. Three incumbents lost in last night’s…
Texas Wins National Cybersecurity Award For Immediate Release October 24, 2012 CONTACT: Thomas Johnson Department of Information Resources 512-936-6592 State of Texas Wins National Cybersecurity Award Texas Department of Information Resources Named Tops in Cybersecurity Leadership & Innovation Las Vegas—The winners of the 2012 Cybersecurity Leadership & Innovation Awards were announced last evening. The awards program…
Texas Lobbyist News: Texas Supreme Court Upholds Franchise Tax The Texas Supreme Court has upheld the state’s franchise tax, which has been greatly contested and is the second largest source of general revenue for the state. The challenge came from Nestle USA, Inc. and has been closely watched by political and business organizations in anticipation…
Beginning November 1, 2012, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (ACR) contractor license applicants are required to have at least 48 months of practical experience in air conditioning and refrigeration-related work under the supervision of a licensed ACR contractor in the preceding 72 months. Prior to November 1, applicants were required to have 36 months of practical…
Texas Lobby Group News: Lieutenant Governor David Dewhurst Announces Senate Committee Chairs Lieutenant Governor David Dewhurst announced the appointment of Committee Chairs today. The Lieutenant Governor had to replace five committee chairs that will not return to the Senate next session (Senators Mike Jackson, Florence Shapiro, Steve Ogden, Chris Harris, and Jeff Wentworth). Of the 18 Chairs announced, 10…
Texas Lobby Group News: Important Dates for the November Elections The deadline to register to vote for this election is October 9th. For details, you can go here: http://www.votetexas.gov/ Other key election dates in Texas include: – October 22 – Early voting begins – November 2 – Early voting ends – November 6 – Election Day
Texas Lobby Group News: Cases Await Judgement in United States Supreme Court 2012 to 2013 Term We commend to you the overview of cases before the Supreme Court found at CNN.com. The Texas Lobby Group is posting this quick digest as a public service for Texas lobbyists and lobbying firms, Texas politicians and political advisors, and…
Texas Lobbyist News: Texas Health and Human Services Meetings Posted The following information is public information by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. The Texas Lobby Group is posting it here as a public service for all Texas lobbyists, Texas government officials and consultants, Texas politicians, and other interested parties. The Texas Health and Human…
October 2, 2012 For Immediate Release Contact: Ricardo Lopez-Guerra 512-463-0578 Representative Bobby Guerra Receives Committee Assignments AUSTIN – After swearing Bobby Guerra into office, Speaker of the House Joe Straus appointed State Representative Bobby Guerra (D-McAllen) to two committees critical to the quality of life in the Valley, filling vacancies that were left when former…
Texas lobbyist political news: Texas Sales Tax Revenue Up 12.6 Percent! The following is a digest of an original article from the Austin American Statesman and figures from the State Comptroller’s website. The Texas Lobby group is posting this summary as a public service for all lobbyists in Texas, political analysts and strategists, government consultants, and…
Texas Lobbyist News: Texas Department of Motor Vehicles has been given the Smart Solution Spotlight Award for Permitting and Routing Oversized and Overweight Trucks. The following is a digest of a public release by the Texas DMV. The Texas Lobby Group is making posting this digest as a public service for Texas lobbyists, Texas Government…
Texas Best Lobbyist News: Texas Election Candidates Finalized by the Texas Secretary of State The Texas Secretary of State has certified the final list of non-Presidential Candidates for the November 6 elections. You can see who is running in your district by visiting the list at http://www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/forms/races-with-candidates-2012.pdf. If you do not know which district you are in,…
Texas Margin Tax Texas Supreme Court to Hear Arguments Over the Constitutionality of the Texas Margin Tax The Texas Supreme Court agreed to hear oral arguments in a case challenging the Constitutionality of the Texas Margin Tax, which was enacted in 2006. Nestle USA, Inc. asked the Supreme Court to order the Comptroller to refund…
Texas Lobbyist Political News: Rick Perry Attends Caterpillar Facility Opening The following is a digest of the contents of a video available at Governor Perry’s website. The Texas Lobby Group is making this digest available as a public service for other Texas lobbyists, government consultants, Texas business persons, and other interested parties. Last Thursday, August…
Texas Lobbyist News. The Texas Tax Revenue Anticipation Notes Texas flexed its economic muscle once again announcing the sale of $9.8 billion in one year notes at the lowest interest rate in State history. The Texas Tax Revenue Anticipation Notes have a one year yield of 0.225 percent. The previous low was 0.27 percent on notes…
We congratulate Texans who brought home medals from the 2012 Olympics in London. Former Longhorn Kevin Durant – Basketball Deron Williams – Basketball Tamika Catchings – Basketball Sanya Richards-Ross – Track and Field Diamond Dixon – Track and Field Bianca Knight – Track and Field Ricky Berens – Swimming Brendan Hansen – Swimming We congratulate…
News for Texas Lobbyists: From the Governor’s Website: Texas Leads Nation in Job Growth The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics has released its latest study data. We are pleased to note that 5 Texas cities are among the top 6 cities in our nation for job growth between 2004 and 2011. Austin has the…
Election update provided by the Texas Lobby Group. The longest primary season in Texas has finally come to an end. The game of musical chairs in the Texas Senate is not going to happen. Last night, Lt. Governor David Dewhurst fell short in his bid to become Texas’ next U.S. Senator. Instead, he will remain…
Governor Perry Appoints Kyle Janek and Chris Traylor to Texas Health and Human Services Commission. The following announcement appeared on the Governor of Texas’ official website. The Texas Lobby Group is posting this announcement as a public service for Texas lobbyists, government consultants, elected officials, and other interested parties. After the Supreme Court’s decision to…
Texas Political News: Texas State Agencies Interim Hearings The following information is public in nature and available at various state of Texas websites. The Texas Lobby group makes this information available on our websites as a public service for all Texas lobbyists, Texas politicians and political activists, government consultants, and other interested parties. Senate Committee on…
Texas Lobbyist News: Texas Department of Health and Human Services Meetings The following meetings of the Texas Department of Health and Human Services are public in nature and can be found at various state websites. The Texas Lobby Group is publishing this information as a public service for all Texas state employees, Texas lobbyists, Texas government…
Texas House Appropriations Subcommittee discusses Funds Consolidation The following article is public information. The Texas Lobby Group is publishing it on our website as a public service for Texas Lobbyists, Texas Government Consultants, Texas Political Activists, and all interested parties. The Texas House Appropriations Subcommittee on Articles VI, VII, and VIII met Monday morning to discuss…
Best States for Business. Texas Ranks #1. CNBC’s annual study of the best states for business ranks Texas at the top of the list. The following article originally appeared at CNBC.com. The Texas Lobby Group offers this summary and digest of the article for Texas Lobbyists, Political Consultants, Texas Business Leaders, and other interested parties.…
Texas Lobbyist News: Texas State Agencies and Interim Hearings for 2012 The following information is public and available at the Texas legislative websites. The Texas Lobby Group posts this information on our website and through social media channels (Facebook and Twitter) as a public service for all Lobbyists in Texas, Government officials and consultants, and…
Texas Lobbyist News: Texas State Agencies and Interim Hearings for 2012 The following information is public and available at the Texas legislative websites. The Texas Lobby Group posts this information on our website and through social media channels (Facebook and Twitter) as a public service for all Lobbyists in Texas, Government officials and consultants, and…
Governor Rick Perry discusses the pragmatic issues surrounding illegal immigration in Texas, in particular the issue of high school children brought to Texas as infants illegally, but then graduating from high school and wanting to go to college. However their parents got them here, there is a basic economic factor at play. Do we want…
Texas Department of Health and Human Services Statement on Affordable Health Care Act Ruling The following news release was published at the Texas Health and Human Services website on June 28th. The Texas Lobby Group is helping make this public as a service to all Texas Lobbyists, Government Consultants, Political Lobbyists, and other interested political…
SCOTUS Reaffirms Citizens United Vs. F.E.C. The United States Supreme Court reaffirmed its decision in Citizens United v. F.E.C. Monday in American Tradition Partnership, Inc. v. Bullock, 11-1179, 2012 WL 2368660 (U.S. June 25, 2012). In a short 5-4 per curiam opinion, the Court overturned a Montana statute prohibiting corporations from making “an expenditure in…
Immigration Law Analysis: US Vs. Arizona 2012 Overview The United States Supreme Court overturned three of four challenged provisions in the controversial Arizona immigration law S.B. 1070 by a 5-3 majority in Arizona v. United States. The Court held that Congress has enacted a comprehensive immigration registration and enforcement regulatory scheme that preempted the three…
Office of the Governor Rick Perry For Immediate Distribution Governor’s Press Office: 512-463-1826 June 26, 2012 Catherine Frazier: catherine.frazier@gov.texas.gov Press Release Lucy Nashed: lucy.nashed@gov.texas.gov Josh Havens: josh.havens@gov.texas.gov Text of Gov. Perry’s Remarks at UnitedHealth Group’s Economic Development Announcement June 26, 2012 IRVING – Gov. Rick Perry today touted Texas’ strong business climate during a press…
Texas Lobbyist News: Texas Interim Committee Studies Posted The following is public information from the government websites of Texas. The Texas Lobby Group is making this information available as a public service for Texas Lobbyists, Texas Political Consultants and Activists, State Government Consultants, and any other interested parties. House Committee on Appropriations * June 12,…
Texas Government Agencies, Lobbyists, Politicians embracing Social Media. The following is a digest of a story that appeared in June of 2012 at the Austin American Statesman. The Texas Lobby Group is publishing this digest as a service for all Texas lobbyists, government consultants, state politicians, and politically engaged persons. All forms of social media…
Texas Lobbyist News: Election Update from the Texas Lobby Group Finally, the State of Texas has had their primary election! As you will recall, redistricting – an every ten year occurrence – was wrapped up in numerous court battles. Now the verdict(s) are in! House of Representatives Seven incumbents were defeated in the Texas House…
News for Texas Lobbyists. Texas Senate Interim Committee Studies Posted. The following information is publicly available at the Texas Senate website. The Texas Lobby Group is posting these meeting dates as a service for Texas Lobbyists, Texas Politicians, Politically interested individuals, Government Consultants, and other interested parties. Sunset Advisory Commission * June 5, 2012 – 09:00 AM…
Texas Political News: Facebook and Social Media vs. Traditional Yard Signs The following story is offered by the Texas Lobby Group for Texas lobbyists, Political Consultants, Government Analysts and lobbyists, and all interested parties. As social media grows in its popularity and power, it is fast becoming the best and cheapest campaign networking strategy available. A Pew…
Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners May 23, 2012 – 09:00 AM 333 Guadalupe Street Tower III, Room 800, Austin The following information is of public record and is published here by the Texas Lobby Group for all Texas lobbyists, Texas Government Consultants, Politicians, and other interested parties. Enforcement Committee Meeting William P. Hobby Building 333 Guadalupe,…
House Committee on Transportation May 23, 2012 – 11:00 AM Bayport Container Terminal, 12619 Port Road, Seabrook The following information is of public record and is published here by the Texas Lobby Group for all Texas Lobbyists, Government Officials and Consultants, and other interested parties. This will be a work session at the: Bayport Container Terminal…
Texas Government and Lobbyist News: Air Conditioning Enforcement Task Team Meeting This report is published by the Texas Lobby Group for all Texas lobbyists, Texas Government Consultants, Politicians, and all interested parties. There will be an Air Conditioning Enforcement Task Team meeting in Houston on May 31, 2012. The purpose of the meeting is to bring…
Texas Political News: Health & Human Services Commission Hearings Public hearings have been announced by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. The Texas Lobby Group is making this information public as a service for all Texas Lobbyists, Political Consultants, and Government Consultants, and other interested parties. Historically Underutilized Business Training May 24, 2012 – 2 pm to 3:30…
Texas Lobbyist News: 2012 Elections Marked By Questions of Resident Eligibility The following news digest is offered for Texas lobbyists, Texas political consultants, Texas Government agents, and other interested parties. The basic information from this article was taken from Capitol Inside. You must have a subscription to read Capitol Inside. Click here for subscription information.…
Texas Lobbyist News: Health & Human Services Commission Hearings The following public hearings have been announced by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. The Texas Lobby Group is posting this information on our website as a public service for Texas Lobbyists, Political Consultants, and Government Consultants, and other interested parties.
Texas Political News: Health & Human Services Commission Hearings The following public hearings have been announced by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. The Texas Lobby Group is posting this information on our website as a public service for Texas Lobbyists, Political Consultants, and Government Consultants, and other interested parties.
Texas Political News: Governor Perry Proclaims May “Elder Abuse Prevention Month” The Texas Lobby Group makes this announcement for the benefit of all political lobbyists and consultants in Texas, along with all interested political parties and constituents. Texas Governor Rick Perry has declared the month of May, 2012 as “Elder Abuse Prevention Month.” This proclamation serves…
Texas Lobbyist News: Romney Nomination May Mean Low Voter Turnout for Texas Primary Elections. The following analysis is provided by the Texas Lobby Group and is intended for Texas Lobbyists, Government Consultants, Political Lobbyists, and other interested parties. Texas is facing a perfect storm of issues that may mean the lowest turnout for a primary…
Texas Political Update Texas Lobbyist News: Texas Hotel and Lodging Association The following is an update published by the Texas Lobby Group for one of our clients. We offer this article for all Texas lobbyists, government consultants, and interested political activists. Texas Political Primary Date Finally, we have a date. The Texas political primaries will be…
Texas Lobbyist and Political News: Lower Voter Turnout A few weeks ago we reported on a story from Capitol Inside about potential low voter turnout if Mitt Romney won the nomination. The thinking at the time was that Romney was not going to inspire voter turnout in the Fall, since no one seriously thinks Obama can beat Romney…
Texas Political News for Lobbyists: Congressional Races to Watch The following article is a digest of analysis found at the Capitol Inside Website. You need a subscription to read Capitol Inside. Click here to subscribe. The Texas Lobby Group offers this digest for Texas Lobbyists and other interested parties. Capitol Inside, using their “Capitol Inside Partisan Index”…
The Best Lobbyists in Texas The following article is digested from Mike Hailey’s 2011 Texas Power Rankings article at Capitol Inside. A subscription is required to read. Click here to subscribe. The Texas Lobby Group is reprinting a summary of the article for the benefit of Texas Lobbyists, Lobbying Firms, State Government Consultants, and other…
Texas Lobbyist News: 2012 Legislative Hearings The following public information is available at the Texas Legislature Website. The Texas Lobby Group is Posting this for Texas Lobbyists, Government Consultants, and other Interested Parties. Senate Committee on Health & Human Services May 8, 2012 – 09:00 AM State Capitol Bldg., Senate Chamber, Austin
Texas Lobbyist News: 2012 Legislative Hearings The following is from a public document at the Texas Legislature website. Texas Lobby Group is posting the following information for the use of all Texas Lobbyists, Texas political consultants, government affairs consultants, and any other interested parties. Senate Committee on Criminal Justice April 11, 2012 – 10:00 AM Capitol…
Texas Lobbyist News: Supreme Court Reviews Health Care Reform The Supreme Court is evaluating a lawsuit brought by Texas and twenty-five other states regarding the 2010 Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, sometimes referred to as “ObamaCare.” For the last 2 years we’ve seen intense debate, often heated, about Obama’s federal healthy care reform law. Texas as…
Texas Lobby Report for Texas lobbyists and consultants from Capitol Inside on Senate Races of note for the 2012 Fall elections. We offer a greatly summarized list of interesting state senate races from Mike Hailey’s Capitol Inside. For details, you must subscribe to Capitol Inside. #1 Senate District 25 Incumbent Republican Jeff Wentworth seeking re-election against…
Texas Lobbyist News: 2012 Legislative Hearings The following report is public and available at the Texas Legislature website. The Texas Lobby Group is providing the following information for the use of all Texas Lobbyists, Texas politics, government consultants, and any interested parties. House Committee on Pensions, Investments & Financial Services April 3, 2012 – 10:00…
Texas Best Lobbyists News. The following is a public document from the Texas Senate Website. It is presented for your convenience by the Texas Lobby Group for the use of Texas Lobbyists, Advocates, or all other interested parties. Interim Charges Relating to Intergovernmental Relations The Lieutenant Governor today released the following interim charges: Intergovernmental Relations…
Texas Lobbyist News: 2012 Legislative Hearings The following is public information and is being posted by the Texas Lobby Group as a public service for Texas lobbyists, Texas government consultants, Texas politics, and any interested parties. March 22, 2012 – 09:00 AM Capitol Extension Bldg., Room E1.030, Austin The House Committee on Transportation will hold…
Texas Lobbyist News: 2012 Legislative Hearings The following is public information and is being posted by the Texas Lobby Group as a public service for Texas lobbyists, Texas government consultants, Texas politics, and any interested parties. House Committee on Natural Resources March 22, 2012 – 09:00 AM Capitol Extension Bldg., Room E2.010, Austin Committee will…
Texas Lobbyist News: 82nd Legislative Session Updates May 2011 The Conference Committee on House Bill 1 – the General Appropriations Act – was passed out of Committee, but without action on Article 3, the education portion of the state’s budget. As discussions between the House and Senate Conferees continued on how to fund the state…
Texas Lobbyist News: 2012 Legislative Hearings The following is public information and is being posted by the Texas Lobby Group as a public service for Texas lobbyists, Texas government consultants, Texas politics, and any interested parties. Senate Committee on Health & Human Services March 20, 2012 – 09:00 AM State Capitol Bldg, Senate Chamber, Austin…
Texas Lobbyists and Texas Ethics Commission Lobby Oversight Rules Recently the San Antonio Business Journal ran an article that reviewed current ethical regulations for Texas lobbyists by the Texas Ethics Commission. The following rules apply to all Texas lobbyists: Lobbyists must register in Texas if they receive more than $1000 dollars in a fiscal quarter as payment for…
Texas Lobbyist News Mike Hailey at Capitol Inside is reporting that Texas Democrats may be pulling for Mit Romney to win the Republican nomination, a position exactly the reverse of national Democrat trends, because of the effect his nomination might have on local voter turnout for the Texas House of Representatives election this Fall. The…
Texas Lobby Group News United HealthCare Awarded Big Texas Contract In February one of our clients – United HealthCare – was awarded the Texas contract to provide the administrative side of health care processing and claims for Texas employees. United HealthCare will provide access to its network of hospitals, physicians, and other providers for HealthSelect…
Texas Lobby Group Lobbyists Rank High in Mike Hailey’s Capitol Inside Texas Power Rankings Mike Hailey’s Capitol Inside announced the “Texas Power Rankings” of Texas lobbyists and groups for 2011. Once again, the Texas Lobby Group and its team are at the top. -Mike Toomey was named the number one hired gun lobbyist -Lara Laneri…
Texas 82nd Legislative Session News It’s finally over…. After a 140-day Regular Session and a 29-day Special Session, the Legislature is adjourned “Sine Die”. (sorta, the House technically has to return today….) It’s been a long, hot summer in Austin, Texas. The 82nd Legislature’s first called Special Session has passed the two major bills that…
Texas Lobbyist Report: 82nd Legislative Session Bills of Note Redistricting Heading into this Legislative Session, everyone was in agreement that the budget and redistricting would be the main focus of the Legislature. This time, the Legislature passed Redistricting of both Houses, by both Houses. HB 150 the House redistricting plan has passed the House and…
One week from today, the Regular Session will come to an end. Today, is a big day. Senate Bill 1581, the school finance bill, is on the House Floor this afternoon. That bill is a “must pass” for the budget to balance. After several meltdowns last week – the House Appropriations Bill, House Bill 1…
Texas Lobbyist Update: Texas 82nd Legislative Session News. Last night, the Conference Committee on House Bill 1 – the General Appropriations Act – was passed out of Committee, but without action on Article 3, the education portion of the state’s budget. As discussions between the House and Senate Conferees continued today on how to fund…
