BRAC will be priority for Texas in 2005
January 1, 2005
Legislative leaders have been working diligently for months to assess the State's needs, formulate legislative agendas and develop necessary and effective policies.
Written by Senator Eliot Shapleigh,
On January 11, 2005, the 79th Session of the Texas Legislature convenes. Legislative leaders have been working diligently for months to assess the State's needs, formulate legislative agendas and develop necessary and effective policies.
Among the many issues leaders will address is the need to support military communities and personnel during a time of war and in the face of potential installation closures or realignments. Bills that have been filed include House Bill 213, relating to a limitation on the amount of ad valorem taxes that may be imposed on the residence homestead of an eligible person serving on active duty in the United States armed forces and Senate Bill 101, relating to electronically monitoring certain veterans' and dependents' tuition exemptions. Moreover, legislation is in development to address such issues as abusive life insurance sales practices geared toward military personnel, defense communities' need for financial support for redevelopment projects, and the need to further support military dependents.
The State of Texas and the Texas Legislature strives to make the legislative process as public as possible. A Website has been developed to allow the public to follow proposed legislation and legislative activities. The comprehensive Website, Texas Legislature Online at www.capitol.state.tx.us, provides access to Legislative Committee schedules, proposed legislation, and member contact information.
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