On the Senator’s desk...
Senator Eliot Shapleigh testified before the Health and Human Services Commission on Thursday, and discussed the need to reform the State’s Adult Protective Services program. Shapleigh was asked by the chair of the committee to work on an amendment to S.B. 6. To hear his testimony, go to the video archive of the senate by clicking here and then clicking on the Feb. 10 Health and Human Services Committee.

Chamber echoes...
The Texas Comptroller has just released its biennial study of the fairness of the Texas tax system, Texas Exemptions and Tax Incidence. The report, once again, demonstrates conclusively that low- and moderate-income Texas families bear a disproportionate share of state and local taxes. To read the report go to the CPPP website.

Among those who visited Austin this week ...
Several students from the Fabens and Clint school district, who toured the capitol and visited the Senator’s office. Also spotted in Austin this week were Dr. Richard Rhodes, Judge Max Higgs, Ray Ponteri, Harriet May, Stan Harman, Arci Estorga, Mary Ruyle, and Frank and Gloria Garcia.

In Committee this week...
During testimony in the Transportation and Homeland Security Committee hearing on Wednesday, Senator Shapleigh asked TxDOT officials to address the perception that “if a city doesn’t pay tolls, it will not get highway funding.” TxDOT’s response is that statement is half-right and half-wrong with the final verdict being that cities that put up toll booths will get more money quicker to finish highway projects.

Bills filed...
Among the bills filed this week was SB 426 which works to combat the obesity problem that fills many of our schools. The bill provides incentives to school administrators to make their campuses available for after hour indoor and outdoor activities.

Upcoming News...
During El Paso Days in Austin, the El Paso contingent, along with Andy Krasfur, will give a new pair of Spira sneakers to every legislator...