February 7, 2025 - One hundred and forty-three years ago this week, building commissioners for the Texas Capitol broke ground for the present-day building. Nimrod Norton and Joseph Lee turned the first shovels on February 1, 1882. The construction took six years and was dedicated in 1888.
January 31, 2025 - An unspeakable tragedy unfolded in our nation’s capital this week after a mid-air collision between an Army Blackhawk helicopter and American Airlines flight 5342 in what may be one of the worst air disasters in decades. Our hearts and prayers are with the victims, their loved ones, our fearless first responders, and all those affected by this tragedy.
January 24, 2025 - Session is starting to heat up in Austin – the budget has been filed, committees have been appointed in the Senate, and our first hearings are scheduled. We hit the ground running this year and are prepared to accomplish as much as we can in the short time we have.
Here are five things happening around your state:
1. Senate committee assignments for 89th Session released
January 16, 2025 - This week session began! It will be an exciting and fast-paced 140 days. We will do our best to keep East Texans informed about the goings on in Austin.
December 19, 2024 - With the holidays right around the corner, now is an appropriate time for reflection, grace, and thanks. I want to express my gratitude to each of you for continuing to allow me to advocate on your behalf. It is one of the greatest honors of my life to represent East and Southeast Texas in the Texas Legislature, and a responsibility I do not take lightly. I hope you all have a safe holiday season and a very Merry Christmas.
December 5, 2024 - This week we celebrate one of my favorite holidays, Thanksgiving. Enjoy food, family, and football – including the return of a historic in-state rivalry. Happy Thanksgiving!
Here are five things happening around your state:
1. Comptroller announces awards for broadband programs
November 5, 2024 - The holidays are fast approaching and we’re busy gearing up for the next legislative session. It will be here faster than we know it!
Here are five things happening around your state:
1. Texas Veterans Commission awards over $1.4 million in grants to 8 East Texas organizations
Last month, the Texas Veterans Commission presented over $1.4 million to eight East Texas organizations that provide services for veterans and their families. Those grants include:
September 19, 2024 - This week, Senator Robert Nichols (R-Jacksonville) met with local superintendents from Shelby County. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss education issues in preparation for the 89th Legislature which convenes in January.
August 30, 2024 - Fall is just around the corner! Which means the 2024-2025 hunting season is here. Dove hunting season opens this weekend. Be sure to get a license from Texas Parks and Wildlife and as always be safe.
Here are five things happening around your state:
1. Business and Commerce Committee discusses Artificial Intelligence, Texas Energy Fund
August 1, 2024 - Last month Houston and the Gulf Coast were devastated by Hurricane Beryl, which made landfall Monday, July 8 near Matagorda. Thirty-six Texans died during and after the storm and 2.3 million were left without power, some for almost two weeks. Hearings were held in Austin to assess the response and hold utility companies accountable that did not perform well, including CenterPoint Entergy.
Here are five things happening around your state:
1. BDO accepting proposals for broadband grant funding