From the Capitol...
August 18, 2005
Senator Shapleigh's notes and observations will keep you updated on what is happening behind the scenes in Austin and El Paso.
Written by Senator Shapleigh, www.shapleigh.org
On the Senator’s desk...
S.B. 7, the Eminent Domain bill by Senator Kyle Janek (R-Houston) passed on Wednesday at 4:00 p.m. after a short lived filibuster by Senator Mario Gallegos (D-Houston). Senator Shapleigh was concerned that the bill as drafted and especially the way it came back from the House would accomplish the opposite of its original intent. Rather than tighten the rules for condemnation of private property for economic development purposes, the bill as amended, provides a laundry list of exceptions allowing for condemnation of private property for economic development purposes that truly make condemnation for economic development easier.
Senator Shapleigh had filed a bill based on 100 plus years of Texas Supreme Court law that stated explicitly when condemnation of private property for economic development purposes could take place. When it became apparent that the Senate would concur with House amendments and not go into a conference committee, Senator Shapleigh worked with Senator Janek to amend S.B. 7 and clarify legislative intent.
Chamber echoes...
While the official sine die date for the Second Called Special Session is Friday, August 19th, the Legislature's third attempt was considered over early this week when the House failed to vote out any legislation. Just last week, the Senate had passed, S.B.8 it's latest version of school finance reform. Because a school finance bill requires a separate tax bill to fund it and all tax legislation has to come from the House, the Senate was prevented from taking any further action on the issue.
Among those who visited Austin this week ...
Fidel Acevedo visited Senator Shapleigh's office this week. A native of Austin, Acevedo supports the Senator's plan to reduce property taxes and fund great schools with a dedicated education tax, and commended him on a job well done during the 79th Legislative Session as well as the two Special Sessions. Also visiting us this week were Jessica Oballo and her daughter, Isabella, from Austin, Texas. Isabella, 3, is a frequent visitor of the capitol and enjoyed visiting with the Capitol staff.
Upcoming News...
On September 2-3, Senator Shapleigh and Senator Jeffrey Jones of Chihuahua, Mexico will co-host a Border Legislative Conference Regional Economic Development Forum in Austin. The Forum will bring together local, state, and federal leaders from the ten U.S. and Mexican Border states to discuss how to develop a vibrant border region. Anyone interested in attending the Forum please contact Katherine Saunders at (800) 544-1990 or via email at Katherine.saunders@senate.state.tx.us
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