Turner Telegram: Sine Die Edition, Part I

The 81st Legislative Session is history. On Monday, we adjourned “Sine Die” – that’s a Latin phrase which, loosely translated, means the Legislature has finished its business and has adjourned for good. Granted, many Texans may wonder if we truly completed our business – and I will have some thoughts on that question in the next Turner Telegram. In the next edition, I will give you my views on some of the overall accomplishments – and shortcomings – of the Legislature over the past few months. But today, I wanted to tell you about some of the specific legislation I worked on.

During the past 140 days, I worked hard to pass significant measures to aid Texas veterans, protect consumers and enhance economic development in House District 96.

On the last day of session, I was honored to receive the bi-partisan Veteran’s Legislative Caucus’ “Freshman of the Year” award for my work on issues affecting Texas veterans and their families.

My work on behalf of those who served our nation so bravely is what I am most proud of this session. Senator Leticia Van de Putte and I passed legislation that will establish a dedicated lottery scratch-off game to benefit the Permanent Fund for Veterans Assistance, a top legislative priority for leading veterans’ organizations. Services that will be made possible with this bill include PTSD counseling, transportation assistance to VA health care facilities and job placement assistance. I authored and passed legislation that will ensure our veterans and their family members are able to take full advantage of the educational benefits which they have earned, by guaranteeing that there is a trained veteran’s aid specialist on every Texas public college and university. I also worked with Senator John Carona to pass legislation to allow state employees who take a leave of absence for military service to continue to accrue vacation and sick leave.

Senator Wendy Davis and I worked together to pass a major consumer protection measure, requiring utility companies to give notification to customers that their fixed rate contract is expiring. Over the past year and a half, I heard from many in Southern Tarrant County who had low fixed rate contracts and received no notification when their low rate contract expired, which resulted in bills doubling or tripling as a result. Now utility companies will have to provide written notification at least 30 days in advance and put the contract end date on every bill.

My top priority during the 81st Legislative Session was to stay in touch with and work hard for the constituents of House District 96. Prior to the beginning of session, I met with city and local leaders to discuss issues affecting them and how I could help. That’s why I filed and passed a bill which creates the Kennedale TownCenter Development District. Aimed to improve and diversify the economic base in Kennedale, the city and the Kennedale Economic Development Corporation will create a mixed use development that will house retail, professional offices and restaurants. Governor Perry has already signed this measure, which will ultimately help reduce pressure on local property taxes.

I am proud of our success in what was my very first session in Austin, but I am mindful that none of these things would have been accomplished without the support and encouragement of the people of District 96. It is a truly humbling experience to represent you in the Texas Legislature. I appreciate the help and support you all have given, for which I will always be grateful.