This morning, Governor Greg Abbott delivered his first “State of the State” address to a joint session of the House and Senate. If you’ve never witnessed this address, it’s very similar to the “State of the Union,” but focused on the issues impacting Texas, while giving direction to the Legislature.
After touting our state’s successes, Governor Abbott focused on five emergency items, issues he wants the Legislature to address sooner than later. The issues include, education, transportation, border security, and ethics.
He didn’t go into many details, but I agree that education is a top priority and hope that Governor Abbott and the legislature really are serious about making real investments in pre-k, public education and higher education.
There was quite a bit of discussion about spending more, with an equal amount about cutting taxes and shifting funds. I have questions about how both will be achieved — spending money to improve the future of our state, while at the same time reducing revenue.
I was also disappointed that healthcare only received a passing mention. Governor Abbott focused some attention on the critical need to increase funding for the Women’s Health Program and PTSD treatment, but ignored the millions of Texans who need affordable health insurance. If we don’t find a solution soon, one in four Texans will remain without coverage and we’ll continue to be the state with the highest rate of uninsured in the nation.
Over the next several weeks, I’ll keep you posted on these issues. Please send me your thoughts on today’s speech and the issues that matter to you. You may email chris.turner@house.state.tx.us or call 512-463-0574.
Chris
Last night, a federal judge out on hold the President’s executive action on immigration. This is an issue that impacts many in our community and I hope that the federal government is successful in fighting this decision. In the meantime, if you have any questions about this decision, please email emily.amps@house.state.tx.us.
On Sunday, I joined The Dallas Morning News’ Gromer Jeffers and NBC 5’s Kristi Nelson on Lone Star Politics to talk about border security and proposed immigration legislation. You’ll see me 7 minutes 15 seconds into the video.
Tomorrow’s a big day. The bus will leave at 6:00am sharp to head to Austin for Texas 101 Day at the Capitol. If you aren’t able to make it, join us virtually via Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We’ll be posting pictures throughout the day!
If you are attending, but still need details, please call Tammy at 817-459-2800 today
