June 1, 2017 - The 85th Legislative Session has come to an end. I believe it was a successful 140 days, and we accomplished a lot for the people of Texas.
My weekly column will now revert back to a monthly column and I will continue to keep you updated as to what is happening not only at your state Capitol, but also in your state.
Here are five things that happened this week at your Texas Capitol:
May 29, 2017 - Austin -- On Monday, the 85th Legislative Session came to a close, marking another successful session for the people of Texas. Senator Robert Nichols (R-Jacksonville), was also elected President Pro Tempore, by a unanimous vote from the members of the Texas Senate.
"Working together, I believe this Legislature has passed integral legislation to benefit the entire State of Texas," said Senator Robert Nichols. "Serving the people of Senate District 3 has been one of the greatest honors of my life, and I look forward to continuing to work for them."
May 25, 2017 - This weekend, our country will observe Memorial Day and remember the sacrifices of the military men and women who gave their lives serving our nation. I hope we all take time to give thanks for those who sacrificed everything for our nation so we might live free.
Here are five things happening at your Capitol this week:
May 18, 2017 - While essential bills are being passed by both Chambers and sent to the Governor, there is still much to be done, such as passing our state's budget. As I write this column, we have approximately 11 days left in the 85th Legislative Session.
Here are five things happening at your Capitol this week:
May 15, 2017 Austin, TX – The Texas Legislature has approved Senate Bill 16 by Senate authors Senator Robert Nichols (R-Jacksonville) and Joan Huffman (R-Houston) and House sponsor Representative Phil King (R-Weatherford), which lowers the License to Carry fees in the State of Texas.
May 11, 2017 - The pace in Austin is getting a little more frantic this week, as members have to be in three or four places at one time. Many times we have to be in one committee to hear testimony, present a bill in a different committee and cast a vote in a third. It's a busy time under the pink dome of the Capitol.
April 27, 2017 - The saying goes that April showers bring May flowers, but at the Capitol April bills bring May thrills. With major issues like finalizing the state's budget and school finance reform ahead, May looks to be both busy and exciting.
Here are five things happening at your Capitol this week:
April 20, 2017 - As both Chambers have passed their versions of the state's budget, The Lt. Governor has appointed five Senate members to a conference committee, who along with the appointed House members will work out the differences between the different versions. The clock is winding down for this session, but I am confident we will come to an agreement and pass the state's budget.
Here are five things happening at your Capitol this week:
April 13, 2017 - The members of the Legislature are heading home to spend the Easter weekend with their families. When we come back, we will be on the home stretch to the end of Session.
Here are five things happening at your Capitol this week: