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Volume XXX, Number 7
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Seats Opening for Next LegislatureThe gavel adjourning the 84th Legislature came down just a few weeks ago but already significant change appears to be in store in the makeup of the next Legislature. Two senators announced in June they will not seek re-election in 2016—Sen. Kevin Eltife (R-Tyler) and Sen. Troy Fraser (R-Horseshoe Bay). Eltife has served since 2005 and has long been supportive of state investment in health care as a member of the Senate Finance Committee. He was recently named to the Texas Monthly’s Ten Best Legislators list. Fraser has served since 1997 and currently chairs the Senate Committee on Natural Resources. Rep. David Simpson (R-Tyler) and Rep. Bryan Hughes (R-Mineola) have both announced they will give up their seats in order to run to replace Eltife in the Senate. Several House members announced they will not return for the 85th Legislative Session: Rep. Jimmie Don Aycock (R-Killeen); Rep. Joe Farias (D-San Antonio); Rep. Patricia Harless (R-Spring); Rep. Jim Keffer (R-Eastland); and Rep. Scott Turner (R-Rockwall). Rep. Allen Fletcher (R-Tomball) will step down in order to run for Harris County Sheriff. Rep. Sylvester Turner (D-Houston), who was also named to the Ten Best Legislators list, will leave to run for Mayor of Houston. More retirements are anticipated before the deadline to file as a candidate for office arrives at the end of the year. Of course, voters may choose to make more changes during the next election. The leadership for the next Legislature, which convenes in January, 2017, will likely remain the same. Rep. Joe Straus (R-San Antonio) had filed for a fifth term as Speaker of the House. Governor Greg Abbott and Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick each have terms that extend to 2019. |
President’s Report___________________________ Legislative Update
___________________________ Commitment to CareFor questions or comments on any of the above Commitment to Care information please don’t hesitate to contact:Gloria Bean-Williams, RN
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