Author Archive

It’s hard to believe Thanksgiving is this week. Terry and I look forward to having time with our family. I hope you and your family will be able to unplug and relax. We all have so much to be thankful for living in Texas. As you gather around the table with your family please remember to pray for our state and nation. These are exceptionally precarious times.

Meeting with Israeli Families Victims of the Hamas Terrorist Invasion
Last week I participated in a very, very difficult meeting. Early in the week, I was approached by the Consul General of Israel for the Southwest Region (based in Houston) to host a meeting for Jewish families who right now have loved ones being held hostage by Hamas. 

This was a sobering, emotional encounter with those who had been directly impacted by Hamas’ brutal assault on innocent Israelis. Those who attended the meeting were from families that lived within a mile of the Gaza border, within communities known as a kibbutz. They were the first to get hit, and their stories were harrowing.

For their protection, I’m going to refrain from mentioning their names or the names of their family members held as hostages. 

One gentlemen recounted that he escaped into a safe room and his home was burned down while he was in hiding. His son, who lived at the kibbutz in another home, was kidnapped and remains missing.

A 14-year-old girl shared a grueling account of her dad being burned and killed. She spoke of her concern for her 9-year-old brother and how this is impacting him. 

We read the horrible accounts of what is happening in Israel, but putting faces to these stories deeply impacted me and strengthened my resolve that we stand by Israel and pray for its citizens.

There are at least 238 people still being held hostage by Hamas, and their families are living a nightmare. It was chilling to hear one person express they feel they are dealing with Holocaust denial all over again ….. that people just don’t fully believe, or certainly understand, the extent of the brutality and horror of the atrocities committed by Hamas. Those we met with are all displaced, their homes are ruined, and they await for news of their families held hostage.

I’m grateful for the fellow senators, House members and legislative staff who joined in this important meeting. May we never forget.

I had the opportunity to meet with families from Israel who were personally impacted by the Hamas atrocities committed last month.

You Deserve a (Property Tax) Break Today!
First, congratulations to all who took the time to vote in the Constitutional Amendment election. Texans came out in droves and voted in favor of Prop 4, the property tax reduction constitutional amendment. Voters overwhelmingly approved this measure, which will be put in effect immediately and lower your property tax bill due in January. Your Texas Legislature listened to those we represent who demanded property tax relief. We passed this legislation and placed the measure before the voters. In fact, I’m proud to report that the proposition passed in all Senate District 10 counties. Parker County had the highest approval rate of all 254 counties in the state, with 93.35% of voters approving!
 
Back in Brown County to Honor Veterans
I was honored to be the keynote speaker for Brown County’s annual Veteran’s Day program. There are 77 Texans who have been awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor, 38 of those posthumously. We have over 1.4 million military veterans living in Texas, which is more than any other state. We were humbled and honored to remember the sacrifices of those who have served in defense of our freedoms.
 
The well-attended event included plaque dedications to the families of the late Jack Carlson of Brownwood, and the late J.H. Childs of Cross Plains in honor of their distinguished and heroic  military service. Carlson joined the U.S. Army in March 1941 and served in the Kangaroo Squadron during the early stages of the United States’ entry into World War II. Childs enlisted in the U.S. Army two weeks after the bombing of Pearl Harbor and was eventually promoted to first lieutenant in June 1944. Both families read the inscriptions on plaques, which will be placed at the Central Texas Veterans Memorial. Military celebration coins were also presented to Sean Lewis, Paul Wade and the oldest veteran present at the event, 86-year-old Vernon Abrahams.
 

I was honored to be the keynote speaker for Brown County’s annual
Veteran’s Day program
 

Special Session #4:  Public Education and Border Security
Governor Abbott recalled the Legislature for an unprecedented fourth special session on November 7th. The Texas Senate quickly passed all items on the Governor’s “call”.  
 
As these bills left the Senate, the legislation focused on increasing education funding, giving teachers a well-deserved pay raise, providing parents with the option of education savings accounts and increasing school safety funding. We also passed measures implementing new border security measures.  As is normal in the legislative process, there were significant differences in the House versions, and those differences are being worked through.  Border Security Highlights:

• SB 3 allocates $1.5 billion to build a border wall, as well as $40 million in additional border security funds (this includes funding for enhancing law enforcement operations in the Colony Ridge Community). Since the Biden administration refuses to fix our rampant illegal immigration problem, it’s up to Texas to take matters into our own hands and protect our sovereign citizens against an influx of human trafficking, terrorists and fentanyl. 
• SB 4 will further address the issue of border security by raising minimum sentences for human smuggling.  It also creates a criminal offense for illegally entering Texas from a foreign nation. Furthermore, the bill allows for a judge to order the illegal alien to be transported to the border and directed to leave the state.

Another Successful Clay Shoot is in the Books
It was great to see so many supporters from around the district and state who came in for my annual Clay Shoot. We enjoyed a beautiful day with friends, food, and fellowship.

Always love when Terry can participate in my annual clay shoot. I’m blessed to have her love and support in all that I do.

During a time of rising hostility toward Jewish citizens here in Texas and across the nation, I was invited on Monday to address an important emergency meeting of the Texas Holocaust, Genocide, and Antisemitism Advisory Commission (THGAAC). In 2021, I was very honored to author HB 3257 which established this commission. The bill had broad support in the House and Senate.  

Back in 2021, little did we know that Israel would be invaded and that a dangerous hostility toward Jews would be on the rise, in of all places, Texas. During the Commission meeting, we discussed the unprecedented escalation of antisemitic incidents on high school and college campuses and across the public square. Though no state has passed more legislation in support of Israel than Texas, I asked for input and ideas on how we can address this growing problem. We will continue the conversation to ensure the safety of the Jewish community. Violence against our Jewish friends and neighbors will simply not be tolerated.  

I have often stated that Israel is the only true democracy in the Middle East and is America’s best partner in that hostile and unstable region. Israel is a leading trading partner with Texas and many Texans have both religious and personal ties to the nation. Being a faithful partner to Israel is always in Texas’ best interest.

On October 9th, we began a Special Session of the Legislature. The Senate’s very first item of business was to pass SR 2, which I had the privilege of presenting, expressing Texas’ solidarity with and support for the people of Israel. This resolution underscored Israel’s absolute right to defend against the brutal attacks by the Iranian sponsored terrorist group Hamas. The resolution, which passed unanimously, condemned antisemitism and directed law enforcement to be especially watchful for increased anti-Semitic and terroristic activity in Texas. Almost simultaneously, my colleague, Rep. Craig Goldman, introduced the same resolution in the Texas House, where it was also passed unanimously.

Just yesterday this resolution was adopted as the national model by the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), America’s largest nonpartisan, voluntary membership organization of state legislators dedicated to the principles of limited government, free markets and federalism. ALEC encouraged other state legislatures to adopt similar resolutions which condemn Hamas’ attack on Israel and supports Israel’s right to eliminate Hamas.

Throughout my service in the Legislature, I have worked to strengthen the Texas/Israel relationship. It’s been a privilege to organize three trips to Israel with legislators from here in Texas and around the nation. One such visit was in conjunction with the delivery of the first F-35 advanced combat stealth fighters, produced in Fort Worth, to Israel. Another personal highlight was when Terry and I were blessed to be in Israel to attend the historic opening of the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem.

On May 14, 2018, Terry and I were blessed to be in Israel for the historic opening of the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem. The event coincided with the 70th anniversary of the creation of the modern state of Israel.
 

I’ve also sought to support Israel through legislative action when needed. When an organized campaign known as the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement sought to delegitimize Israel through economic warfare, Texas responded by passing the nation’s strongest anti-BDS bill. This 2017 bill prohibits the State of Texas from doing business with any companies or individual contractors who boycott Israel.

In 2017, Texas passed legislation to combat the BDS movement, which seeks to weaken the nation of Israel through economic boycotts, divestiture efforts, and sanctions. This photo is from the day the bill was signed by Gov. Abbott.
 

Earlier this year, I filed SB 1517 to fight antisemitism on college campuses and stop academic boycotts of Israel. This bill, now law, requires that institutions of higher education prohibit academic boycotts that deprive students or faculty members of the opportunity to study or conduct research in Israel.   Texas continues to state affirmatively, without reservation: We stand with Israel. And we always will.    

Meeting with the Fort Worth Chapter of Hadassah, whose leaders recognized our efforts to pass the strongest Anti-BDS law in the nation.

The polls are open for early voting, with major property tax relief ready for your approval!

There are 14 proposed Constitutional amendments on the ballot, and early voting lasts until Friday, November 3. Election Day is Tuesday, November 7.  

One of the most important propositions on the ballot is Prop 4, which will implement the legislature’s historic $18 billion property tax relief package.  

More information on each amendment provided by the Texas Secretary of State’s office is found below. 

Additionally, see below for a link to early voting times and locations for each of the counties in Senate District 10. Please get out and vote!

Brown County
Callahan County
Johnson County
Palo Pinto County
Parker County
Shackelford County
Stephens County
Tarrant County

As you know, on November 7th Texas will have a Constitutional amendment election, and early voting is October 23 – November 3. I have included an overview of each proposition on the ballot. 

During the regular and special sessions, the legislature passed a total of 14 joint resolutions to propose these amendments to the Texas Constitution, and I supported and voted for each of them. Twelve of these joint resolutions would have statewide implications. 

I’d like to bring a few of these amendments to your attention. One of the most important measures before voters is Prop. 4, where you are asked to approve the largest property tax cut in Texas history. Earlier this year, I provided a detailed Q&A concerning matters related to this subject, and you can read that information HERE. 

Prop. 1 ensures that farmers and ranchers across our district have the ability to operate without undue government regulations which threaten their ability to survive. Prop. 6 ensures that Texas will have the infrastructure we need to provide water for our state’s booming population. 

I was personally involved in crafting the legislation for Prop. 7 to create the Texas Energy Fund. By approving this measure, we will take an important step forward in improving the reliability of the state’s electric power grid. Prop. 8 will create the Broadband Infrastructure Fund with a goal of expanding high-speed broadband all across Texas. Our retired teachers desperately need a cost of living adjustment (COLA), something they haven’t received in nearly 20 years. Approval of Prop. 9 ensures they receive that well-deserved COLA.  

Where required, the funding for some of these important measures has already been allocated and approved in the state budget, but voters have the final say.  

The Secretary of State has determined the order of the amendments by random draw and numbered them by proposition. Below is the ballot language for each statewide constitutional amendment with a brief description of the proposed changes. 

I hope you find this information helpful and informative.

Prop. 1 — “The constitutional amendment protecting the right to engage in farming, ranching, timber production, horticulture, and wildlife management.”
 
Prop. 1 proposes a constitutional amendment to protect a person’s right to engage in generally accepted farm, ranch, timber production, horticulture, or wildlife management practices on real property that the person owns or leases. The proposed amendment would not affect the authority of the legislature to authorize the regulation of these practices by: (1) a state agency or political subdivision as necessary to protect the public health and safety from imminent danger;
(2) a state agency to prevent a danger to animal health or crop production; or (3) a state agency or political subdivision to preserve or conserve the natural resources of the state under the Texas Constitution. Additionally, the proposed amendment would not affect the legislature’s authority to authorize the use or acquisition of property for a public use, including the development of natural resources under the Texas Constitution.
 
Prop. 2 — “The constitutional amendment authorizing a local option exemption from ad valorem taxation by a county or municipality of all or part of the appraised value of real property used to operate a child-care facility.”
 
Prop. 2 proposes a constitutional amendment to allow the governing body of a county or municipality to exempt from property taxation all or part of the appraised value of real property used to operate a child-care facility. The proposed amendment would authorize the governing body to adopt the exemption as a percentage of the appraised value of the property, but that percentage could not be less than 50% of the appraised value of the property. The proposed amendment also would allow the legislature to define the term “child-care facility” and to establish additional eligibility requirements to receive the property tax exemption.
 
Prop. 3 — “The constitutional amendment prohibiting the imposition of an individual wealth or net worth tax, including a tax on the difference between the assets and liabilities of an individual or family.”
 
Prop. 3 proposes a constitutional amendment to prohibit the legislature from imposing a tax based on the wealth or net worth of an individual or family. The proposed amendment also would prohibit the legislature from imposing a tax based on the difference between the assets and liabilities of an individual or family.
 
Prop. 4 — “The constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to establish a temporary limit on the maximum appraised value of real property other than a residence homestead for ad valorem tax purposes; to increase the amount of the exemption from ad valorem taxation by a school district applicable to residence homesteads from $40,000 to $100,000; to adjust the amount of the limitation on school district ad valorem taxes imposed on the residence homesteads of the elderly or disabled to reflect increases in certain exemption amounts; to except certain appropriations to pay for ad valorem tax relief from the constitutional limitation on the rate of growth of appropriations; and to authorize the legislature to provide for a four-year term of office for a member of the board of directors of certain appraisal districts.”
 
Prop. 4 proposes a constitutional amendment to modify certain provisions of the Texas Constitution related to property taxes. The proposed amendment would authorize the legislature to temporarily limit the maximum appraised value of real property for property tax purposes in a tax year. The proposed amendment also would increase the mandatory homestead exemption for school district property taxation from $40,000 to $100,000. The proposed amendment would require the legislature to provide for a reduction in the amount of the limitation on school district property taxes imposed on the residence homestead of the elderly or disabled. Additionally, the amendment would exempt appropriations not dedicated by the Texas Constitution and used for property tax relief from being considered as appropriations when determining whether the rate of growth of appropriations in a biennium has exceeded the constitutional tax spending limit. The proposed amendment would further authorize the legislature to provide that members serving on an appraisal board in a county with a population of at least 75,000 serve terms not to exceed four years.

Prop. 5 — “The constitutional amendment relating to the Texas University Fund, which provides funding to certain institutions of higher education to achieve national prominence as major research universities and drive the state economy.”
 
Prop 5. proposes a constitutional amendment to redesignate the national research university fund as the Texas University Fund (TUF), and to appropriate funds from the economic stabilization fund to the TUF. The proposed amendment would appropriate to the TUF an amount equal to the interest income, dividends, and investment earnings attributable to the economic stabilization fund for the preceding state fiscal year. The appropriation amount could not exceed $100 million for the state fiscal year beginning September 1, 2023, or an amount adjusted for the increase in the general price index, not to exceed two percent, in subsequent state fiscal years. The proposed amendment also would prohibit any state university that is entitled to participate in dedicated funding provided by Article VII, Section 18 of the Texas Constitution from receiving money from the TUF.
 
Prop. 6 — “The constitutional amendment creating the Texas water fund to assist in financing water projects in this state.”
 
Prop. 6 proposes a constitutional amendment to create the Texas water fund. The Texas water fund would be a special fund in the state treasury outside the general revenue fund, administered by the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) or its successor to assist in financing water projects in the state. The proposed amendment would direct the Texas water fund administrator to use the fund only to transfer money to other TWDB funds or accounts. The proposed amendment would authorize the legislature to appropriate money for deposit to the water fund to be available for permitted transfers. No further legislative appropriation would be required for the water fund administrator to transfer money from or restore money to the fund, including the transfer of money to or the restoration of money from certain designated TWDB funds and accounts. The water fund would consist of: (1) money transferred or deposited to the fund by general law; (2) other revenue that the legislature by statute dedicates for deposit to the fund; (3) investment earnings and interest earned on amounts credited to the fund; (4) money from gifts, grants, and donations to the fund; and (5) money returned from any authorized transfer. The proposed amendment would require the legislature, by general law, to provide for the manner in which money from the Texas water fund may be used. The proposed amendment also would require that at least 25% of the money initially appropriated to the Texas water fund be transferred to the New Water Supply for Texas Fund.
 
Prop. 7 — “The constitutional amendment providing for the creation of the Texas energy fund to support the construction, maintenance, modernization, and operation of electric generating facilities.”
 
Prop. 7 proposes a constitutional amendment to establish the Texas energy fund. The Texas energy fund would be a special fund in the state treasury outside the general revenue fund, administered by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) or its successor. Money in the Texas energy fund could be used, without further appropriation, only by PUC or its successor to provide loans and grants to finance or incentivize the construction, maintenance, modernization, and operation of electric generating facilities necessary to ensure the reliability or adequacy of an electric power grid in the state. The proposed amendment would require PUC to allocate money from the fund for loans and grants to eligible projects for electric generating facilities that serve as backup power sources and in each region of the state that is part of an electric power grid in proportion to that region’s load share. The Texas energy fund would consist of: (1) money credited, appropriated, or transferred to the fund by or as authorized by the legislature; (2) revenue that the legislature dedicates for deposit to the fund; (3) the returns received from the investment of the money in the fund; and (4) gifts, grants, and donations contributed to the fund.
 
Prop. 8 — “The constitutional amendment creating the broadband infrastructure fund to expand high-speed broadband access and assist in the financing of connectivity projects.”
 
Prop. 8 proposes a constitutional amendment to create the broadband infrastructure fund. The broadband infrastructure fund would be a special fund in the state treasury outside the general revenue fund, administered by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (Comptroller). Money from the fund could be used, without further appropriation, only for the expansion of access to and adoption of broadband and telecommunications services. The broadband infrastructure fund would consist of: (1) money transferred or deposited to the fund by the Texas Constitution, general law, or the General Appropriations Act; (2) revenue that the legislature by general law dedicates for deposit to the fund; (3) investment earnings and interest earned on money in the fund; and (4) gifts, grants, and donations to the fund. The proposed amendment would authorize the Comptroller to transfer money from the broadband infrastructure fund to another fund as provided by general law, and the state agency that administers the fund to which any money is transferred could use the money without further appropriation only for the expansion of access to and adoption of broadband and telecommunications services. The broadband infrastructure fund would expire on September 1, 2035, unless extended by adoption of a joint resolution of the legislature. Immediately before the expiration of the fund, the Comptroller would be required to transfer any unexpended and unobligated balance remaining in the broadband infrastructure fund to the general revenue fund.

Prop. 9 — “The constitutional amendment authorizing the 88th Legislature to provide a cost-of-living adjustment to certain annuitants of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.”
 
Prop. 9 proposes a constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to provide a cost-of­-living adjustment to eligible annuitants of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS). The proposed amendment also would authorize the legislature to appropriate money from the general revenue fund to the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts to pay the cost-of-living adjustment.
 
Prop. 10 — “The constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to exempt from ad valorem taxation equipment or inventory held by a manufacturer of medical or biomedical products to protect the Texas healthcare network and strengthen our medical supply chain.”
 
Prop. 10 proposes a constitutional amendment to allow the legislature to exempt from property taxation tangible personal property held by a medical or biomedical manufacturer as a finished good or used in the manufacturing or processing of medical or biomedical products.
 
Prop. 11 — “The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to permit conservation and reclamation districts in El Paso County to issue bonds supported by ad valorem taxes to fund the development and maintenance of parks and recreational facilities.”
 
Prop. 11 proposes a constitutional amendment to expand the authority of the legislature with regard to conservation and reclamation districts in El Paso County. The Texas Constitution permits conservation and reclamation districts in certain counties across the state to issue bonds to fund the development and maintenance of parks and recreational facilities but does not currently provide this authority to El Paso County. The proposed amendment would add conservation and reclamation districts in El Paso County to those districts currently allowed, if authorized by general law, to issue bonds supported by property taxes to fund the development and maintenance of parks and recreational facilities. The proposed amendment would not limit the powers of the legislature or of a conservation and reclamation district with respect to parks and recreational facilities as those powers currently exist.
 
Prop. 12 – “The constitutional amendment providing for the abolition of the office of county treasurer in Galveston County.”
 
This proposed amendment would abolish the office of county treasurer in Galveston County, a move sought by the current officeholder and other local officials.
Prop. 12 proposes a constitutional amendment to abolish the office of County Treasurer in Galveston County. The amendment would authorize the Galveston County Commissioners Court to employ or contract with a qualified person or designate another county officer to perform any functions that would have been performed by the County Treasurer. The proposed amendment would take effect only if a majority of the voters of Galveston County voting on the proposition favor the amendment.
 
Prop. 13 — “The constitutional amendment to increase the mandatory age of retirement for state justices and judges.”
 
Prop. 13 proposes a constitutional amendment to increase the mandatory retirement age for state justices and judges. Currently, the Texas Constitution establishes that justices and judges of the appellate courts, district courts, and criminal district courts must retire on the expiration of the term during which they reach the age of 75 years or an earlier age, not less than 70 years, as the legislature may prescribe. The proposed amendment would change the mandatory retirement age for justices and judges of the appellate courts, district courts, and criminal district courts to 79 years or an earlier age, not less than 75 years, as the legislature may prescribe. The proposed amendment also would remove the provision stating that justices and judges may only serve until December 31 of their fourth year in office if they reach the age of 75 years in the first four years of a six-year term.
 
Prop. 14 — “The constitutional amendment providing for the creation of the centennial parks conservation fund to be used for the creation and improvement of state parks.”
 
Prop. 14 proposes a constitutional amendment to establish the centennial parks conservation fund as a trust fund outside the state treasury. The fund could be used, in accordance with general law, only for the creation and improvement of state parks. The centennial parks conservation fund would consist of: (1) money appropriated, credited, or transferred to the fund by the legislature; (2) gifts, grants, and donations received by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) or its successor for a purpose for which money in the fund may be used; and (3) investment earnings and interest earned on amounts credited to the fund. The proposed amendment would authorize the legislature to appropriate money from the centennial parks conservation fund to TPWD or its successor for the creation and improvement of state parks.

I know you are stunned, heartbroken and outraged over the senseless murder of hundreds of Israeli citizens over the weekend at the hands of Hamas terrorists.

The carnage and destruction is simply shocking. As of this morning, the death toll is estimated at over 700 Israelis. Based on population, that would equal a terror attack in our country resulting in the deaths of about 28,000 Americans.

Sadly, there are reports of at least nine American deaths in Israel.

Today, as we began a Special Session of the Legislature, I had the privilege of offering SR 2, which expresses Texas’ solidarity with and support for the people of Israel, and underscoring their absolute right to defend themselves against these brutal attacks. The resolution is at the end of this email. This resolution passed unanimously, 31-0. 

Terry and I have visited Israel many times. We’ve walked the streets of Jerusalem and visited the holy sites across the city. We had the honor to be in the city for the opening of the U.S. Embassy. We have friends there, and we pray for their safety. 

Israel is now moving forward to destroy Hamas to ensure this can never happen again. As they do so, let us continue to pray for Israel…. for their strength, safety, protection and total victory.  

The impeachment trial is behind us, but it looks like we will be back in Austin for another special session very soon, most likely in early October.  Governor Abbott has not announced the specific “call” of the session, but I expect we will be taking up school choice, border security, and other matters as determined by the Governor.  In the meantime, here is a brief update. 

Grid Reliability Legislative Oversight Committee
It was an honor to be named by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick as one of four senators who will serve on the new joint House/Senate Grid Reliability Legislative Oversight Committee.  The committee will oversee the Public Utility Commission to ensure the agency is implementing the laws passed by the Texas House and Senate during the 2023 legislative session.  We have passed major reforms on a wide range of issues to ensure Texas will have the infrastructure we need to power our growing state.  This committee will work with various agencies to provide oversight during the implementation of those needed reforms.  Our task is also to identify additional steps we will need to take in the next legislative session, as we still have a long way to go in ensuring the grid reliability and resiliency that Texas needs.

Gender Modification Ban Took Effect September 1; Court Challenges Loom

I’m pleased to report that earlier this month on September 1st, Senate Bill 14, the “ending child gender modification” law went into effect. This bill outlaws puberty blocking drugs or gender modification surgery on children under 18, revokes the license of any doctor who provides gender transition treatments, and outlaws the use of public funds to pay for gender transitioning services to minors.  No one should be surprised that liberal activists opposed to this legislation have filed legal challenges, and those proceedings will take place in January.  As of today, the ban stands and I am hopeful that these court challenges will not be successful.  
 
Dr. Quentin Van Meter, Pediatric Endocrinologist and immediate past President of the American College of Pediatricians, provided his expert opinion and strong support for the bill, saying “When children go through puberty, the brain expects to see elevated levels of estrogen or testosterone. Changing or blocking this process has very real consequences. There is zero empirical science supporting the medical transitioning of children, and unless states act to protect children from this practice, we are going to have several million children in this country whose lives were ruined.”

Mark Your Calendars:  For Historic Property Tax Relief, Vote “YES” to Proposition 4  (Early Voting Begins October 23)
Over the summer, the Texas Legislature passed an unprecedented property tax relief package, and it was signed by Governor Abbott.  Now, however, this proposition must be passed by the voters in the form of a constitutional amendment. You as a voter have the opportunity to make a direct impact on the amount of property taxes that you pay.  By approving Prop. 4, you are sending a clear message that you support these significant property tax cuts in the upcoming November 7th election. Early voting begins in less than a month, running from October 23 to November 3rd.

Using the average home value in Texas of $330,000, this tax cut will provide about $1,300 in property tax relief. If passed, it will be applied retroactively to January 1 of the current year, meaning you’ll see savings on your current property tax bill that’s due in January 2024.

If you missed my earlier email that addressed many of the questions I have received concerning property taxes, appraisals, homestead exemptions and related issues, click here for that information.

In Memory of Officer Darrin McMichael

As a former police officer, it is always gut-wrenching for me to read about the loss of one of our men in blue. As many of you have no doubt heard, Officer Darrin McMichael, an Arlington police officer for 24 years, was killed on his way to work last week in a hit and run.  He leaves behind a wife, also an APD officer, children, and grandchildren.
 
On Wednesday, Officer McMichael was laid to rest after his motorcade passed through Arlington.  Terry and I extend our prayers and deepest sympathy to the family of Officer Darrin McMichael, as well as to the entire Arlington PD family. 
 
The Dallas County Sheriff’s Office and the Arlington Police Department have announced up to a $20,000 reward for information leading them to the driver who killed Officer McMichael. Crime Stoppers is offering $5,000, with Oak Farms Dairy pledging an additional $15,000. The information must be provided to Crime Stoppers.

Back Home in the District

After being in Austin much of the summer for the impeachment trial and the two special legislative sessions, it was good to be back home and in the district among friends, family, and supporters. Recently, I had the opportunity to speak to both the Republican Women of Arlington and the Fort Worth Republican Women.

At the monthly meeting of the Fort Worth Republican Women with Mona Bailey, former State Rep. Bill Zedler, and Tarrant County District Clerk Tom Wilder.

It’s always good to see our great Tarrant County Sheriff Bill Waybourn, who also provided remarks to the Fort Worth Republican Women.

Great to see these Republican women in Fort Worth, including current SD 10 SREC Committeewoman Susan Wright.

Thanks again to the Republican Women of Arlington for inviting me to update them on recent events.

With my longtime friend and supporter Dr. Mark Hanson after my speech to the Republican Women of Arlington Club.

Here with Jan Tyler, President of the Republican Women of Arlington.

With former State Rep. Barbara Nash.

Recently had the chance to take in a Texas Rangers baseball game with four of my grandkids. We were excited to see the Rangers win and move into first place in the AL West!
 

Judy Flanagin of my office presented a Senate Resolution to Kim Laws honoring her 50 years of service in banking.

As you no doubt know, the impeachment trial of Attorney General Ken Paxton ended on Saturday with the acquittal on all sixteen Articles of Impeachment.

My work began months before the trial started and I took my role very seriously. I served on the Senate Special Committee for Rules and Procedures for the Court of Impeachment and as a judge and juror in this historic process. 

My commitment to you prior to the start of the trial was that I would hold my constitutional responsibility in the highest regard and make the best decision in recognition of my oath, to render a true verdict according to the laws, and the evidence, so help me God. And I did just that. 

For more insight into the process, please listen to my interview with Mark Davis yesterday.  I think it will answer a lot of your questions about the trial and final vote to acquit.  My interview was followed by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick.  This was the first impeachment trial of its kind since 1917.  Between the two interviews you’ll hear a lot that has not been widely reported. 

I have been receiving calls, emails and other messages concerning the role of the Senate during the Attorney General Ken Paxton impeachment trial which begins at 9:00 am on Tuesday, September 5^th.  

First and foremost, communication from constituents is always needed and appreciated. However, in the unique instance of an impeachment trial, please understand that I am not permitted to comment or engage in any discussion as I am in the position of a judge and a juror.  I am also under a judicial gag order that prohibits discussion of the matter, which includes discussion on the merits of the case. This gag order also applies to my staff.

When the trial begins, I will publicly take the following oath:

 “I do solemnly swear or affirm that I will impartially try Warren Kenneth Paxton, Jr., Attorney General of Texas, upon the impeachment charges submitted to me by the House of Representatives and a true verdict render according to the law, and the evidence, so help me God.”

As your Senator, I hold my constitutional responsibility as a member of the Court of Impeachment in the highest regard. My commitment to you, and to all my constituents, is to do my very best to make a decision that is in recognition of my oath. Thank you for your understanding that I cannot directly respond to your calls and other communications.

My office has also received questions concerning information publicly available to citizens.  If you wish to stay informed throughout the process, here is information I can share:

• The Clerk of the Court of Impeachment has a public website which provides access to the resolutions adopted by the legislature and other official documents related to the impeachment, including the rules and procedures. You can view these documents HERE. 

• Official guidelines have been issued for in-person public access to the Senate Gallery during the impeachment trial and can be viewed HERE.

• The trial will be live streamed each day and it will begin at 9:00 am on Tuesday, September 5^th. The live stream can be viewed HERE.   

Thank you again for your understanding in this matter, and for the honor and privilege of representing you in the Texas Senate.

As we approach the end of August, I hope you have enjoyed time with family and friends this summer.  As for me, the cooler weather of the Fall months can’t get here soon enough!  In the meantime, here are some updates on recent events and some of my travels across Senate District 10.  
 
Gov. Abbott Signs Save Women’s Sports Act in North Texas
 
Last week Governor Greg Abbott ceremonially signed the Save Women’s Sports Act, which I co-authored and strongly advocated for during recent session. Joining the Governor was former NCAA athlete Riley Gaines and other female athletes to celebrate this law, which protects the integrity of fair competition and women’s sports in Texas.  Senate Bill 15 requires athletes in college sports to compete under their biological gender. This is a matter of fairness, safety, and frankly common sense. With obvious physiological differences that advantage biological men, it’s simply unfair for college women to be forced to compete against them.  With the passage of SB 15, Texas made it clear that our college athletes will be protected. 

Joining Gov. Abbott to Crack Down on Illegal Street Racing 

As a former Fort Worth police officer, I was honored to join Governor Greg Abbott recently as he signed legislation to address the growing and dangerous problem of organized illegal street racing. Sheriff Bill Waybourn, Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker, Fort Worth Police Chief Neil Noakes, and several of my legislative colleagues joined local law enforcement officials to highlight these new laws.   This crime wave is being driven in large part by recruitment of teenagers through social media. Vehicles involved in illegal street racing will now be impounded; also, reckless driving exhibition and racing on a highway are now considered organized criminal activity. Our families should be able to drive without risking serious bodily injury, or even death, from illegal organized racing. The legislature took these actions to help ensure safety and hold these criminals accountable.

ACLU and Others Sue to Block Bills to Protect Texas Children

The recent session also saw some key legislation passed to push back on growing and disturbing efforts at sexualizing our children.  I strongly supported the Restricting Explicit and Adult-Designated Educational Resources (READER) Act, passed overwhelmingly and signed by Governor Abbott.  Aimed at public primary and secondary schools, the READER act is meant to prevent the possession, acquisition, and purchase of harmful material, sexually explicit material, or library material that is pervasively vulgar.  Various groups opposed to this bill have filed suit to stop the bill from going into effect next month. 
 
We also passed Senate Bill 12, which is set to become law on September 1.  The bill would ban any sexually oriented performances in public places where underage children are present.  However, the ACLU filed a lawsuit last week to block the law from being implemented.  ACLU’s attorney claimed the bill was censorship, and I strongly disagree.  Minor children simply should not be exposed to drag shows.   
 
I’m proud of the legislature’s efforts to take a stand to protect our children from exposure to content that is not age appropriate.  I hope and pray that the lawsuits seeking to stop us from adopting these new standards will fail.

Property Tax Relief Explained

We have received very positive feedback on our most recent email which provided answers to a host of questions related to the property tax relief package passed by the Texas Legislature.   If you didn’t have a chance to review that information you can find it HERE.   As a reminder, this historic property tax relief must by approved by Texas voters.   That’s why it’s important to mark your calendar and VOTE YES FOR PROP 4.  Early voting runs from Monday, October 23rd, to Friday, November 3rd, and Election Day is Tuesday, November 7th.

Snapshots from Visits Across the District

Attending the Arlington Chamber of Commerce “Legends and Leaders” event hosted at Globe Life Field.

Pictured (L-R) Former Mayor Jeff Williams, Jared Sloane, Steve Montgomery, Anette Soto Landeros, Senator Phil King, Michelle Green-Ford, Michael Jacobson. 

At Globe Life Field, I provided an update on state grant funding for the National Medal of Honor Museum.

Speaking at the Weatherford Chamber of Commerce “Business Before Breakfast,” providing an update on legislative accomplishments.  It’s always good to be among friends in my hometown.

I had the opportunity to participate in a lunch meeting to discuss the ongoing efforts for the National Juneteenth Museum in Fort Worth.   Those present include the grandmother of Juneteenth herself, Ms. Opal Lee along with museum executive board members Dr. Gleniece Robinson, Dr. Angela Mitchell, Dione Sims and Museum CEO Jarred Howard.

Attending the Chisolm Trail 100 Annual Meeting in Johnson County.  

Pictured (L-R) Former Johnson County Sheriff Bob Alford, Grady & Janice Lewis, Phil & Terry King, Pastor Gloria Gillaspie, and Barry Gee, CFO Open Door Church-Burleson

I enjoyed being in Brownwood recently, where I shared an overview of the recent legislative session
with the Brown County Republican Women. 

What an honor to be able to give remarks at the grand opening for the Douglas MacArthur Academy of Freedom Building at Howard Payne University (HPU) in Brownwood. 

Pictured (L-R) Howard Payne University Board Chairman Ronnie Andrews, HPU President Dr. Cory Hines, Brownwood Mayor Stephen Haynes, Senator Phil King, and Representative David Spiller

Since the Legislature passed the historic $18 billion property tax relief package I’ve received a number of questions concerning the specific details and especially what part voters play in approving this tax relief in the November Constitutional elections.  
 
Here is a summary of some of the most common questions. Hopefully this will be helpful to you.
 
Q:  What does the overall package contain?
A:   The components of the $18 billion in tax relief are:
$ 12.5 billion in tax relief from “compression”
(that means the state is providing more funding to school districts, thus reducing the local school property tax rate.  Specifically, school district property tax rates will be compressed – or reduced – by an average of 18 cents per $100 valuation for all homeowners and business properties statewide).
$   5.3 billion from an increase in the Homestead Exemption
($100,000 of your home value will be exempt from taxation, up from $40,000)
$   0.2 billion for “circuit breaker” (or appraisal caps) for non-Homestead properties
(this includes residential or commercial properties valued at $5 million or less)
 
Q:  How much money will I save if the tax relief package is passed by the voters?
A:  Based on an average home value of $331,000, taxpayers will save an average of $1,300 a year.
 
Q:  I’ve also heard there is tax relief for small businesses.  Is that in addition to the $18 billion above?
A:  Correct.  In addition to the tax relief above, we doubled the amount of a taxable entity’s revenue that is exempted from the franchise tax from $1.235 million to $2.47 million. Because of this change, we estimate that approximately 67,000 small to medium sized businesses will no longer pay the franchise tax.
 
Also, if you don’t owe any tax, you will no longer be required to file a “no tax due” franchise tax return form.  This will reduce paperwork and reporting requirements that cost time and money.
 
Q:  What part of this tax relief package must be approved by the voters? 
A:  Proposition 4, which will implement the additional tax rate compression, the increase in the homestead exemption and the appraisal board reform (discussed below), must be approved by the voters in a statewide constitutional election. Early voting runs from Monday, October 23rd, to Friday, November 3rd, and Election Day is Tuesday, November 7th.
 
Q:  How does the homestead exemption work? 
A:  You will see significant property tax relief from a major increase in your homestead exemption, available to taxpayers who own and reside at a property as of Jan. 1 of the year.
 
For example, if your home is valued at $300,000, currently you can take a $40,000 homestead exemption, and you are taxed only on $260,000. However, because of legislation just passed, if approved by the voters you will be able to claim a $100,000 exemption, meaning you will be taxed on only $200,000 of the $300,000 appraised value. 

Q: How does this impact me if I’m over 65 or Disabled?
A:  If you are a homeowner over 65, or a disabled homeowner, you will continue to receive an additional $10,000 homestead exemption.  Therefore, if Prop 4 is approved, your homestead exemption will be $110,000 instead of $100,000.  
 
As you may know, school districts are not allowed to increase property taxes on an older or disabled adult; the amount owed is capped where it was for the first year they qualified.  If Prop 4 is approved, frozen tax bills will be recalculated to account for the increase in the homestead exemption and will refreeze at the new, lower calculated amount.
 
Q:  I keep hearing about this “circuit breaker” that will apply to other properties.  Can you explain how that works? 
A:  We passed a 3-year “pilot program” that will apply to other properties such as rental properties or others you may own that are not your primary residence. For those properties valued at $5 million or less, appraisals can’t go up more than 20% from the previous year. There is currently no such cap for those properties.

Q:  When will I see the relief? 
A:  It’s different for each component of the tax relief package.
 
Homestead exemption:  If approved in November, the tax cuts from the homestead exemption will be retroactive to January 1st of this year. This means you will see the tax relief reflected on your property tax bill for the 2023 year that’s due by January 31st, 2024.  

Compression: The tax relief from the compression portion will be effective for tax year 2023, for the bill that is due January 31st, 2024.
 
Circuit Breaker/Appraisal Cap:  If approved in November, this three-year pilot program will be effective for the 2024, 2025, and 2026 tax year.
 
Franchise Tax Relief:  The doubling of the franchise tax exemption will take effect January 1, 2024 and applies only to franchise tax reports originally due on or after that date.
 
Q:  Won’t the appraisal values just keep going up and wipe out any benefit of this increased homestead exemption?
A:  The Legislature has passed homeowner protections to prevent that from happening. In 2019, we passed a law which prohibits cities and counties from raising property tax revenue more than 3.5% without voter approval; for school districts, that number is 2.5%. 
 
Q:  What else do I need to know about the appraisal process?
A:  Well, we took some important steps to provide more direct citizen involvement in the appraisal process, but again, these changes must be approved by the voters in November.  
 
In counties with a population of 75,000 or more, local citizens will be given the opportunity to elect 3 new members to their local appraisal district board of directors (currently, all appraisal boards are appointed).  These new directors will first be elected in the May 2024 elections and initially serve 2.5 year terms.
 
Q: Let’s say I only owe $100,000 on my mortgage. If the $100,000 homestead exemption passes, does that mean I won’t pay any more school taxes?  
A:  Your property tax bill is based on your taxable value, not how much you owe on your mortgage.
 
Q:  I love the idea of tax savings, but I’m concerned that this is money that would have gone to fund our school systems.  
A:  The state of Texas is fully funding education, so school districts will receive the same amount of money they would have without this property tax cut.
 
Q:  My monthly mortgage payment is partially to pay down my home, and partially to pay for my property taxes through escrow.  So should my overall payment decrease next year?
A: Most mortgage companies re-calculate your property payment each year. So all else being equal, your overall mortgage payment should go down next year to reflect your lower property tax bill.
 
Q:  What happens next?  
A:  First, local school boards are adopting rates right now with all of the compression factored in (that is, the increased portion of local education funding that will be coming from the state).  As required by law, local tax assessors will calculate the bills and send them to you on the assumption that Prop 4 will be approved.  These new estimates of your property tax bill will arrive in October or November.   In the unlikely event that Prop 4 is not approved by voters, you would receive a supplemental property tax bill.
 
That’s why it’s important to VOTE YES FOR PROP 4.  Reminder:  Early voting runs from Monday, October 23rd, to Friday, November 3rd, and Election Day is Tuesday, November 7th.