Senator Eliot Shapleigh - El Paso, Texas

By now, the Rick Perry, Radical Republican agenda is clear. During the 82nd Session of the Texas Legislature, TEA party Republicans mean to wage war on Hispanics.

In Perry’s party, which just took 22 seats away from Democrats to create a supermajority in the Texas House, the agenda is now crystal clear—cut taxes for the billionaires that funded Perry’s last election, cut budgets for key programs that invest in Hispanic education and health, cut regulations to corporations like the predatory lenders whose PACs pay for House wins and do anything possible to keep Hispanics away from the ballot box.

Retired state Senator Eliot Shapleigh from El Paso sent the following letter to the Milwaukee Sentinel editor. Shapleigh was one of 11 Senate Democrats who left the state for Albuquerque, N.M. in the summer of 2003 to deny a quorum needed for the Senate to approve a controversial redistricting bill. After holding out for 48 days, Sen. John Whitmire, D-Houston, threw in the towel – and the Texas Legislature approved another congressional redistricting map.

"On March 23, 2010 in Mexico City, the U.S. and Mexico launched the foundation of a 21st century bilateral partnership called "The New Border Vision." After months of consultation with the Calderon administration and joined by Secretaries Gates and Napolitano, Secretary of State Clinton announced a new policy named "Beyond Merida." The new federal accord has four key policy pillars: disrupt capacity of organized crime to operate; institutionalize capacity to sustain rule of law; create a 21st century border structure; and build strong and resilient communities. Here in the "Pass of the North," Beyond Merida must mean safety, jobs and mobility."

"Rick, there you go again. Giving a letter to President Obama at the Austin airport is just another gimmick to move the focus off Perry’s failed record at DPS. Quit blaming Obama for Border Security—El Paso is safer than ever. Get over to DPS and fix it now. That’s one responsible thing you can do on your watch.”

"Quit lying about El Paso; quit conflating drug dealers with Hispanics to whip up fear; quit the Tea Step tour and come home—get to work and fix DPS—that’s one responsible thing you can do on your watch.”

In D.C., Presidents Obama and Calderon will meet soon on historic reforms to Border security, mobility and jobs. Texas is best served if Perry is at the table and working on good policy and better solutions, not more pandering to extremists."

"EPISD is one of our key institutions, perhaps as important as UTEP. For EPISD to move up, Garcia & Co. need to move on. Several years ago, Socorro ISD teachers and taxpayers rejected a bond election, and then ejected the Superintendent and her whole team. That’s what needs to happen now at EPISD. For months, "priority division directors" have threatened teachers who told the truth with retaliation. Do you now want these directors to have the right to fire courageous, hard-working teachers who stood up for kids? How can a handful that crafted a "plan" that was voted down by 70% of voters, now get to do the reduction plan to fix it? Don’t double the trouble by leaving Garcia’s team in charge.”

EL PASO - On Wednesday, May 5, 2010, at 4:30 p.m. at the El Paso International Museum of Art, the office of Senator Eliot Shapleigh will host a "Photo Fiesta" to celebrate winners of the ¡Ganas! student photo and essay contest. ¡Ganas! is a student photo and essay contest designed to promote youth empowerment.

What Jaime O. Perez wants to do is stop every citizen based on the color of one’s skin to ask basic questions about citizenship. Without question, Perez’ move will racially profile eight in ten of all El Paso. We condemn the Arizona law and Perez’ resolution as rank violations of basic notions of American equality, fairness and justice. We have asked the County to investigate just how he put out his request framed as a County Resolution.

After a decade of budget malpractice in Austin, UTEP and all nine school districts in El Paso face massive deficits. Just last week, our office spoke with a superintendent who faces a ten percent deficit that "must be resolved today." At UTEP, many programs are now facing cuts due to lack of support from the state of Texas. And on April 15th, Tea Party protesters did what they do best. Just what happened here?

When Jesus chased the money changers from the temple, he was protecting the poor from usury—something prohibited by most of the world’s major religions. Since the founding of the Republic, Texas has upheld this tradition with strict anti-usury laws. What about today?

Over his twenty-five years in Texas government, Rick Perry has seceded from reality. Under his leadership, Texas has more uninsured than any other state. From 2000 to 2009, the cost of health insurance premiums for Texas families increased 91.6 percent. Here in El Paso, we have fewer doctors, nurses and dentists than any big city in America. That is Perry’s legacy. We welcome any session, special or regular, to show just how much good the President’s plan will deliver to Texans.

"We so appreciate your courage and tenacity to deliver on the promise of fundamental change to fix what everyone acknowledges is a broken health care system. If "starting over" is what Republicans still want, then I ask you to review the history of health care in Texas from George W. Bush to Rick Perry—because “starting over" here means no action at all to address woefully inadequate health care access in the least insured state in the country."

EL PASO - On Wednesday, March 24, 2010 at 2 p.m., at EPCC Administrative Service Center, Senator Eliot Shapleigh (D-El Paso) will posthumously honor Esther Chavez Cano with the "Adelante Con Ganas" Award for the month of March. Every month Senator Shapleigh awards one or more persons who have made an extraordinary commitment to service, family and community.

"What we need now is patient, careful, and strong leadership. Our three state region needs a coordinated plan and the kind of help that neighbors give neighbors. Our thoughts and prayers are with our brothers and sisters in Juarez.”

On Wednesday, January 27, 2010 at 10 a.m., Senator Eliot Shapleigh (D-El Paso) will host a press conference in the Senate Press Room (2E.9) to connect the dots on how industry influence controls outcomes of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). In particular, Senator Shapleigh will focus on El Paso's ASARCO air permit and his battle with TCEQ over open records associated with that permit.

"It's simply political fiction that stimulus dollars were necessary to balance our budget." - Texas Lieutenant Governor David Dewhurst, Austin American - Statesman, October 21, 2009."

"In order to balance the budget this biennium, which is $182 billion, we used $14 billion in federal stimulus money to balance it." - Senate Finance Committee Chairman, Senator Steve Ogden (R - Bryan), Fort Worth Business Press, October 19, 2009."

Now, under Perry, Texas predatory lenders lead America in new and innovative ways to get into your wallet. While Kay Bailey may be Rick Perry's bailout queen, Rick Perry is Texas' predator's king.

"Today we honor our men and women in uniforms who guarantee our freedoms around the world. It is their sacrifice, their dedication, and their lives that truly deserve the Nobel Peace Prize."

Now is the time for reality based, responsible leaders to act to reform a broken health care system—this is not the time for more posturing on right wing radio by those whose only record is more of "just say no." Unless the federal government forces Texas to act, unless provisions in the Affordable Health Care for America Act are strong enough to deliver for all our citizens, Rick Perry will continue to leave one in four behind with the most vulnerable populations being denied access to basic health care. Please do not allow Rick Perry to opt us out of access to quality care. For Texas’ sake, for our children and future, count us in.

"Al Armendariz is a polished professional. He knows environmental issues well. He is also committed to upholding federal law. Every Texan can look forward to his great work at EPA."

"Senator Carona has been a state champion for solid infrastructure. In our region infrastructure is the key to jobs, prosperity and mobility."

SAN ANTONIO - Today, Senator Eliot Shapleigh (D-El Paso), the Border Legislative Conference, and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) are co-hosting the second annual Americas 2020 International Trade & Transportation Summit at the Marriott Rivercenter Hotel in San Antonio.

"Christopher Anaya already has all the qualities of great leadership — ganas, cariño y siempre adelante! He also loves El Paso, which may be best of all!"

In our family, public service is the highest calling. While other public service may lie ahead, I will not run for the Texas Senate in 2010. During each day of the last decade, we have endeavored to do our very best for the people of our great community and state. In public life, especially in Texas during this decade, doing what’s right, not what’s expedient is what matters. I am grateful to the people who elected me for the opportunity to serve. Here in God's Country, good, hardworking, honest leaders will rise to the challenge—the work will go on—the dream will never die

Rick Perry’s had five sessions to fix Texas health care. In those 10 years, he kicked over 230,000 kids out of CHIP, 500,000 kids out of Medicaid, sent nearly $1 billion in Texas CHIP money back to D.C., presided over 91.6% increase in health care premiums and led Texas to dead last in citizens who have health insurance. Last session, he threatened to veto the CHIP expansion bill that the Texas Senate passed 29-2. Rick Perry advising on health care is like Bernie Madoff advising on family savings. Now that responsible leaders are crafting responsible solutions, failed leaders like Rick Perry need to let real leaders get to work.

"Here’s the reality: one in four have no health insurance. Homeowners’ insurance rates are highest in the US. All across the state, Texas cities have the most polluted air in America. On Texas streets, predatory lenders routinely charge 1100% interest per year. At UTEP, because Perry cut taxes for millionaires, tuition for students went up 73%. That’s the real record—failed leadership. Our great state deserves better than dead last under Rick Perry.”

When Perry, Norquist and the extreme wing of the Republican party value tax cuts for the wealthy over good schools for children, Texas loses. Good government is of, by and for people—and those irresponsible few who seek to starve government, are really starving us. Far from the envy of the nation, our great state is now ‘no longer competitive.’ The good news is this — with hard work and responsible leaders, all of us, working together, can get Texas out of Grover’s Tub.

On Thursday, September 24, 2009 at 9 a.m. the Texas Transportation Commission will meet to discuss six important project items that will affect El Paso:

Right now El Paso is poised to move into a solar energy future. We are so excited that El Paso Electric, student leaders, and business stake holders will join together at the summit to talk about renewable energy.

As America endures the Great Recession, federal and state budget cuts are forcing local communities to prioritize need, optimize services, and reassess cost-sharing across governmental entities. With a $10- to 13-billion deficit facing the state of Texas next session, local communities will all need to look at doing more with less

The first Friday of every month, Senator Shapleigh invites constituents to their El Paso senate office to share coffee and conversation with him and his staff. Please come!

Because Rick Perry has neither the courage nor responsibility to deal with his issue, he now has mayors like John Cook deal with it as their issue. John Cook’s police now have to pick up Rick Perry’s patients that El Paso property taxpayers will have to pay to treat.

Our President has made health care reform America's top domestic priority. Now is the time for El Pasoans to engage. We invite everyone to have your voice heard.

Here’s a terrible program that used punitive fines to plug holes in the budget. Some face $1,750 fines for a first time offense. Of the 1,600,000 in the program, more than 1,080,000 can’t pay. Our founders never intended for debtor’s prisons to substitute for a tax system

Bringing great talent together to dream, unite and lead is what drives great communities to succeed.

Saving money on school supplies is a great deal. Hopefully El Paso will shop and save this weekend."

If the current relationships between minority status and educational attainment, occupations of employment, and wage and salary income do not change in the future from those existing in 1990, the future workforce of Texas will be less educated, more likely to be employed in lower-level state occupations, and earning lower wages and salaries than the present workforce.

"In the 21st century, moving people and products faster, smarter, safer will define us as an international port. Ports that do it best will have the best opportunities."

The first Friday of every month, Senator Shapleigh invites constituents to their El Paso senate office to share coffee and conversation with him and his staff. On Friday, Senator Shapleigh will cover highlights of the 81st Session. Please come!

Like the last governor of the last Southern state, Rick Perry is seceding from reality. During the Civil War, governors took up the shield of “states rights” to protect a society based on slavery. In Perry’s war with President Obama, he does it to shield America from the reality here in Texas.

As the whole world now knows, Texas has more uninsured than any state in the US. One in six uninsured American children now live in Texas. Not a single Texas city—not Dallas or even Austin, reaches even the national average of citizens who are covered with health insurance. With a record like that maybe Rick Perry ought to take a closer look in the mirror.

Despite Rick Perry's pledge to stop diversions, the 81st Legislature put an end to only $5 million out of $2.9 billion in biennial diversions. So what's the answer? The real answer in Texas is real leadership, prepared to pay for 21st century infrastructure in a state soon to reach 50 million inhabitants.

"Vigorous new leadership nourishes the future of every great community. Taking emerging leaders to Austin will educate them on how to get things done. Best of all we get a bike trip at the end!"

Today's joint announcement on high-speed rail from here to Denver is an historic moment. I applaud Governors Richardson, Perry, and Ritter in making this happen. Here in El Paso, we will make every effort to join Congressman Silvestre Reyes, Mayor John Cook, and the Governors of the three states to push this critical project and specifically to include the Salmayuca line in the Federal Railroad administration study. Our main goal should be a 21st century Camino Real that strengthens economic ties in this 400 year old corridor that has been the lifeline for trade for so long.

"The Bulldogs story is already the stuff of El Paso legend. Along with the '49 Bears, '66 Miners, '08 Conquistadores, the '09 Bulldogs show us that pride, persistence and ganas can make champions of each and every one of us."

"Texas is ground zero in America's health care crisis. One in six uninsured children in America live in Texas. Both the Senate and House passed CHIP by wide margins; the money is in the budget. Now, it's time for Governor Rick Perry to take responsibility and put CHIP in the call for Special Session."

"To make El Paso the community that will attract talent, we must all work together on environmental issues. Our community pride shines when we take care of our environmental legacy. "

"Texas is ground zero in America's health care crisis with more uninsured than any other state. At the heart of the uninsured issue is health income. Simply put, if there is no insurance or payment, then there are no doctors or nurses. Increasing coverage for more people will expand access to health care, increase the number of health care professionals, and positively affect health outcomes in our communities. We are here to support President Obama's health care reform and to ask every border community to push hard to make it happen."

"Expanding CHIP is vitally important in Texas as the state currently ranks first in the nation in the number and percentage of uninsured children. The state also ranks seventh nationally in the number of children living in poverty. Of the approximately 9 million uninsured children in the U.S., one in six are from Texas. Insuring more Texas children in CHIP will make for healthier children, and save the state money over time by helping families avoid using hospital emergency rooms as their only access to health care."

"In April 2008, our office asked that the Texas Attorney General conduct this investigation. We are pleased that Countrywide's actions here, especially in subprime lending get independent scrutiny."

The first Friday of every month, Senator Shapleigh invites constituents to their El Paso senate office to share coffee and conversation with him and his staff. On Friday, Senator Shapleigh will cover highlights of the 81st Session. Please come!

"Even in tough sessions, hard work makes the difference. By working together with legislators working in good faith, we can keep El Paso's agenda on track."

"So often, the elderly, veterans and those with mental illness end up in boarding homes where unscrupulous owners take advantage. This bill will deliver protections for these vulnerable Texans."

"We are proud to host the best art of El Paso students. Thousands of Texans will see our culture, our community and our cariño."

"Texas is not globally competitive. If we do not change course, for the first time in our history, the Texas generation of tomorrow will be less prosperous than the generation of today."

"Right now, Texas needs strong education leadership, particularly in math and science to make us competitive in the 21st Century," Senator Shapleigh said. "Don McLeroy is not qualified to serve as chairman of such an important board as the State Board of Education. His views on creationism do not square with science; his views on reading do not square with evidence; his views on the future of education in Texas do not square with a diverse state seeking education excellence."

"Rep Marquez worked so hard on this historic bill. For the first time ever, we can now stop the spread of colonias in El Paso County." Senator Shapleigh said.

"This Brownsville case has enormous implications for all border wall construction. In America, property owners do have rights, even on the border."

"S.B. 11 was the omnibus bill to help us beat violent cartels. Today, we put the bill back on track."

"With tonight's amendment, we guarantee a direct pay raise to teachers, counselors and librarians. A motivated teacher in the classroom is the best way to guarantee a good education."

"With H.B. 300, we create a rail department at TxDOT, develop reinvestment zones to fund commuter rail and tap into the relocation money that is in the budget. With rail in the pass soon to be such an important issue, this bill paves the way for significant rail improvements in El Paso."

"Candelario Barragan makes math fun. He's really a magnificent talent right here in El Paso."

"In the midst of a historic recession, H.B. 3676 delivers $2.4 billion in taxpayer subsidies to some of the largest corporations in the world. Each job that this bill creates costs taxpayers $376,000. These Chapter 313 agreements need state oversight."

"If you are behind on house payments, please contact help. Both HUD and area banks will help you rework your loan. Call 915-533-SAVE for help."

"Putting guns on campus makes no sense. How does law enforcement know who the shooter is if everyone has a gun? Students, faculty and regents all told us that it was a bad idea,"

"Maria Ruiz's story is an amazing lesson of service, sacrifice and dedication to others. She has inspired many people.”

"Across Texas, a silent epidemic of obesity is shortening lives, raising health costs and putting more and more Texans at risk. With SB 204, we can make sure more Texans live strong—and healthy lives."

“Insuring more Texas children in CHIP will make for healthier children, and save us money over time. What is a better investment than that?”

"Go back to the election cycle in 2008. The predatory lending industry spent hundreds of thousands of dollars in political contributions to state legislators and to pay lobbyists knowing that laws to regulate interest rates and help struggling families were on the way. These dollars had one goal—to kill any bills that regulate predatory lending and cap interest rates on predatory loans."

"Tele-Town Hall meetings are a great way to participate live on issues important to you."

"Predatory lenders spend millions to fund campaigns, then more to kill bills. What's the result? 1,100 percent interest on the streets and the vice president for Cash America now chairs the Finance Commission of Texas. The fox is not in the henhouse-- the fox owns the henhouse."

"Within four years, Governor Bill Richardson put 100 miles of commuter rail in New Mexico. With the movement of rail west of the Juarez Mountains, El Paso-Juarez can be a dynamic international commuter line. Thousands can then move safer and faster from Juarez to Downtown and UTEP, to better bind our bi-national community."

"Capping tuition so more students can go to college is very important. We should do everything possible to make sure that El Paso students can get a college education."

"Art is a window to the soul. In ¡Ganas!, students tell us with photos and essays what makes them strong."

"We ask El Pasoans to just use common sense; wash your hands, cover your cough and avoid people who have flu symptoms."

"Here's the agency created to protect our air, water and environment. After a decade under Rick Perry, TCEQ has been captured and corrupted by polluters. The time has come to clean up the mess at TCEQ."

"Right now, Texas needs strong education leadership, particularly in math and science to make us competitive in the 21st Century. Don McLeroy is not qualified to serve as chairman of such an important board as the State Board of Education (SBOE). His views on creationism do not square with science; his views on reading do not square with evidence; his views on the future of education in Texas do not square with a diverse state seeking education excellence."

By allowing for investment in solar technology, this measure is a significant step toward creating thousands of solar-related jobs in Texas and could lead to more manufacturing locating in the state.

"So often, the elderly, veterans and those with mental illness end up in boarding homes where unscrupulous owners take advantage. This bill will deliver protections for these vulnerable Texans."

The program has disproportionately hit low-income and minority Texans with expensive fees, and has led to more warrants being issued to low-income Texans and more uninsured drivers on Texas' roads.

"With SB 855, El Paso now has the tools to build highways, fund transit and keep El Paso moving. Having voters approve the projects and funding options guarantees broad support in our community. Without this funding, the highway fund will have no money to build new projects. In our view, not moving forward is not an option."

"In our democracy, the public has the right and duty to oversee public agencies. Public agencies that hide documents hide from public oversight. TCEQ cannot decide what the people have a right to know"

"The Franklin Mountain State Park is a community jewel. Protecting the foothills and the poppies has been a top goal of our office for many years."

"Rick Bentley is one of the best education leaders in Texas. His work on financial literacy is a national best practice."

“Here’s a terrible program that used punitive fines to plug holes in the budget. Some face $1,750 fines for a first time offense. Currently, of the 1,600,000 in the program, more than 1,080,000 can’t pay. Our founders never intended for debtor’s prisons to substitute for a tax system.”

"In Texas today, the American dream is distant. Texas ranks 43rd in home ownership rate and 50th in homeowner's insurance affordability. We have the highest percentage of uninsured children in the nation, are dead last in the percentage of residents with their high school diploma, and are near last in SAT scores. Texas now has America’s dirtiest air. On the streets, interest rates on payday loans exceed 1,100 percent per annum. If we do not change course, for the first time in our history, the Texas generation of tomorrow will be less prosperous than the generation of today. Our great state needs a change of course."

"In Texas, El Paso is literally the Sun City—we are best positioned to develop, market and lead in solar energy. For several years, we have asked El Paso Electric to take much more aggressive steps to lower costs, allow consumers to generate and sell solar power and put El Paso on the map. Changing EPEC from a 1950s power company to a 21st Century energy company must now be a top community priority.”

"The century-old polluter is attempting to shed $250 million of cleanup costs with a remediation plan developed by a Bush-era EPA, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, and ASARCO itself. What happens in this case matters across the country, as it will set a precedent for polluters regarding their ability to shed environmental liabilities through the bankruptcy process."

"Today’s bills will help transform DPS to truly take on cartels. With these new tools, we can prosecute ‘kingpins,’ aggressively forfeit assets, develop and use better intelligence across local and state agencies, and stop weapons going into Mexico.”

"Now that Grupo has been found legally liable for $6 billion, that money will go to bankruptcy court. We ask that El Paso be made whole—clean up 100 years of lead and arsenic."

"Texans cannot afford to suffer from the lingering health effects of heart disease, diabetes, and the other ailments caused by bad cholesterol intake. Many restaurants in the country, including a number of prominent chains already take responsibility for the foods they serve by eliminating trans fat from their menu. I applaud these good corporate citizens and look forward to the day when all of Texas is trans-fat free," Rep. Alvarado said.

"Borrowing from Obama to balance the budget on the backs of Texas’ at risk kids is not the right or moral choice—that $3.2 billion was meant to educate kids, not fund more tax cuts. Budgets are moral documents—and Texas is better than this budget."

"In Texas, El Paso is literally the Sun City—we are best positioned to develop, market and lead in solar energy. For several years, we have asked El Paso Electric to take much more aggressive steps to lower costs, allow consumers to generate and sell solar power and put El Paso on the map. Changing EPEC from a 1950s power company to a 21st Century energy company must now be a top community priority,” Senator Shapleigh said.

"In Texas, El Paso is literally the Sun City—we are best positioned to develop, market and lead in solar energy. For several years, we have asked El Paso Electric to take much more aggressive steps to lower costs, allow consumers to generate and sell solar power and put El Paso on the map. Changing EPEC from a 1950s power company to a 21st Century energy company must now be a top community priority,”

Allowing scientifically unfounded arguments and theories to be taught in our public schools discounts science in favor of religious ideology, and religious ideology has no place in our public school system. Maintaining the "strengths and weaknesses" language in our science curriculum would undermine science education in our public schools and, frankly, places Texas at a competitive disadvantage, both in terms of education and attracting 21st century businesses into our state.

The Top Ten Percent Rule has ensured that all Texas students have an equal opportunity of attending the Texas college of their choice.

"Now more than ever, financial literacy is the key to prosperity and success. In 2008, we saw a global financial crisis and the fall of financial institutions that dated to before the Civil War. As we rebuild America’s economy, we must also build the basic financial literacy, family savings and wealth-creation skills to empower American communities."

“The time is now to restore transparency and fairness to Texas lending. For too long, predatory lenders have had their way with Texas. Lending reform will restore credibility to markets and move us faster to real recovery,” Senator Shapleigh said. "The root cause of today's financial meltdown is a mix of toxic mortgages? until this basic toxic transaction is fixed, recovery in the financial sector will be slow."

"Day in, day out, Teresa and Carlos work hard to keep a small business alive - paying the bills, selling products, covering employees with health insurance - doing the right thing. Small businesses like Pencil Cup Office Products, Inc. keep America working"

"Across Texas, a silent epidemic of obesity is shortening lives, raising health costs and putting more and more Texans at risk. With SB 204, we can make sure more Texans live strong—and healthy lives. In Austin, the support of the Texas Restaurant Association will help pass this key bill.”

“All across Texas, people tell us that jobs are their top concern. By October, an additional 300,000 Texans will be out of work. In the absence of responsible leadership from Rick Perry, we will work now to fund unemployment insurance to help Texans in tough times.”

“From Dyer to Montana, consumers now pay up to 1,100 percent annual interest on predatory loans. SB 189 will protect soldiers and their families from predatory lenders by capping interest at 36 percent and having state law enforcement stop these abusive practices."

"Tele-Town Hall meetings are a great way to participate live on issues important to you."

"The governor's actions are profoundly irresponsible. By October, over 300,000 Texans will be unemployed. Right now, we stand to gain $555 million to help Texas families who are unemployed in tough times. We have filed legislation to make sure that Texas takes that money and does the right thing."

Voter ID "is a direct descendent of poll taxes, and of allowing only white male property owners to vote. In its effect it is racist, barbaric, antidemocratic and contrary to everything that made America great." - Royal Masset, former political director of the Republican Party of Texas, April 23, 2007.

Who will be impacted? Maybe your sister who is recently married or divorced and whose last name does not match her ID. Maybe your uncle who went to work on the bus and never got a driver’s license. Maybe your child at college whose ID does not match their temporary address. Maybe your grandmother who, because of illness or transportation barriers, cannot get an ID. This bill is aimed at all of us. If Texans get too frustrated to go vote, Republicans win, and this is what the voter suppression bill is all about.

"So many El Pasoans have come to me to say appraisals are not accurate. Senate bill 258 gives every El Pasoan the ability to appeal an appraisal from home or office. The bill will save time and money, and make the process work for homeowners."

"What happens in this case matters across the country, as it will set a precedent for polluters regarding their ability to shed environmental liabilities through the bankruptcy process. The $52 million for clean up is way too low to clean this site. ASARCO left 100 years of lead and arsenic right on the Rio Grande. The site has an arsenic plume in the groundwater of 233 million cubic feet. We want that site cleaned."

"Many vets and widows of vets do not know about pensions and other benefits. We want more vets to claim benefits that they have sacrificed to earn."

"For too long, we have watched money wasted on virtual immigrant hunts and paid patrols trying to trap immigrants. Now is the time for real security and a clear focus on the real threat—violent, international criminal gangs. Today, we ask the Texas DPS to organize around corridor teams—a proven approach coordinated with local, state and federal law enforcement to gather better intelligence, arrest key gang leaders and seize cash, weapons and property to deny drug cartels a base in our communities.”

“For too long, we have watched money wasted on virtual immigrant hunts and paid patrols trying to trap immigrants. Now is the time for real security and a clear focus on the real threat—violent, international criminal gangs," Senator Shapleigh said. "Today, we ask the Texas DPS to organize around corridor teams—a proven approach coordinated with local, state and federal law enforcement to gather better intelligence, arrest key gang leaders and seize cash, weapons and property to deny drug cartels a base in our communities.”

"For Texas students, learning about nature, being responsible stewards of the environment, and mastering life-long health habits are all important for our future," said Senator Eliot Shapleigh. "We applaud Texas Impact and the Christian Life Commission for taking action now."

“Now, we can move to a new era of better jobs, clean skies and healthier neighborhoods. Winning this battle with ASARCO is as important to our future as creating the medical school. Since the 1880’s, ASARCO has defined our past—now our talent and aspirations will define our future," Senator Shapleigh said.

Every month Senator Shapleigh awards one or more persons who have made an extraordinary commitment to service, family and community.

Texas today is the least insured state in the nation, with no Texas city even reaching the national average in citizens with health insurance. Much of this can be blamed on health care premiums increasing more than 86 percent from 2000 to 2007. When it comes to health care professionals, Texas has fewer physicians and nurses per capita than any large industrial state.

"El Paso Days is Austin is our chance to tell the El Paso story, to advocate for our children, our community and our future."

"Tammi won over 100,000 other counselors in the U.S., making her the best advocate for school children in America!"

Opponents of reopening the ASARCO smelter site won a major victory when ASARCO LLC decided against reopening the site. This event will celebrate El Paso's grass roots efforts in opposing the smelter's reopening with live music, food and information on local civic groups. The event will also provide an opportunity for El Pasoans to present creative ideas for the prospective uses of the ASARCO property.

"Contrary to what Perry told us in Austin, Texas lost 25,700 jobs in December. As of January 3, 218,000 Texans had filed unemployment claims, making employer based health insurance that much harder to keep. In the coming months, another 111,000 Texans will lose jobs—and the health care that comes with it."

"Here is the reality behind the rhetoric. 5.83 million Texans do not have health insurance—one in four—making Texas the least insured state in the nation. Not a single Texas city even reaches the national average in citizens with health insurance. From 2000 to 2007, Texas families saw their health insurance premiums soar 86.8 percent—nearly six times more than their median earnings increased. 29 cents of every private pay health dollar now goes for denial management and administration—in other words, Texans are paying more for less health care. That's the reality. Now, what are lawmakers going to do about it?"

“In DC, we need to define what ‘border security’ means. Here on the front lines, we face three separate challenges: violent, international, criminal gangs; a broken immigration system; and free trade seriously impaired by the failure to invest in smart, fast, secure ports. That’s the story we need to tell.”

"As Franklin Delano Roosevelt said, 'all we have to fear is fear itself”. In this conference, President Obama is gathering Americans to help us face our future with confidence, and with out fear, to renew faith in ourselves, our communities and our future.'"

“Valley Days in Austin lets us visit on Valley needs like water, sewage, broadband, roads—basic stuff. Leaders from Horizon, Socorro, San Eli, and Fabens will join Senator Uresti, Representative Quintanilla and me to go agency to agency to advocate for the people of our Mission Valley,” Senator Shapleigh said.

"Our job now is to guarantee clean up of onsite and offsite lead and arsenic. The TCEQ's claim in ASARCO's bankruptcy court will not nearly cover our cleanup costs," Senator Shapleigh said.

"Too many Texas children go without quality healthcare. With President Obama's signature on the SCHIP bill, we now have opportunity to provide that care," Senator Shapleigh said. "Let's make it happen."

“TDHCA is the key Texas agency for affordable housing. With these awards, we will repair homes for vulnerable citizens to help them achieve the American dream,” said State Senator Eliot Shapleigh. “Often our citizens don’t have the funds to make the necessary home repairs themselves or resources to convert their contract for deed to a conventional mortgage. We commend TDHCA for this award and their commitment to El Paso County.”

"What the real story is here is a community that rose against years of contamination and abuse. With this new administration, ASARCO's permit had to have a new Title V review and that's what stopped the 7000 ton permit," Senator Eliot Shapleigh said.

“Now, we can move to a new era of better jobs, clean skies and healthier neighborhoods. Winning this battle with ASARCO is as important to our future as creating the medical school. Since the 1880’s, ASARCO has defined our past—now our talent and aspirations will define our future,” Senator Shapleigh said.

The first Friday of every month, Senator Shapleigh invites constituents to their El Paso senate office to share coffee and conversation with him and his staff.

¡Ganas! is an international contest designed to promote youth empowerment. The program is a collaboration between the Office of Senator Eliot Shapleigh, the Municipio de Juarez, the El Paso Independent School District, the Ysleta Independent School District, the El Paso International Museum of Art and the City of El Paso.

"Now, more than ever, education is the key to success. For years, Texas lawmakers have failed to create effective two-way dual language courses, certified teachers and effective programs. We want the federal and state education officials to make that happen."

"One in five Texas children are uninsured; tuition at UTEP has risen 73 percent; tax cuts for the wealthy have hurt public schools, forcing them to cut key programs. Around Texas, from Houston to Dallas to El Paso, we share the nation's dirtiest air. Texas is number one in dropouts and number 46 in SATs. When Rick Perry values tax cuts for the wealthy over investments in our future, Texas loses. Now is the time for change in Austin."

Monsignor Bañuelas is a native priest of the Diocese of El Paso, Texas, ordained June 11, 1976, and today is pastor of St. Pius X Catholic Parish in El Paso. He oversees St. Pius X's 43 vibrant ministries whose volunteers daily serve El Paso County, and Bañuelas is a enduring champion for migrants, farm workers, and our county's poor and disenfranchised.

The group of 15 students have been visiting El Paso as part of an alternative 10-day long winter break program focusing on immigration, homeland security and border issues. During their stay in El Paso, the group has also visited with the Las Americas Immigrant Advocacy Center, ACORN, the Border Network for Human Rights and Border Patrol offices in El Paso, among other locations.

"Keeping Texans at work is one of our highest priorities. If a family loses a job, we need to make sure that we take care of Texans."

Senator Shapleigh created the Paseño Art Exhibit upon taking office in 1997 as a venue for El Pasoans in the Texas Capitol. The exhibit was created to convey to visitors from across the state a sense of El Paso's rich history and culture through artwork created by local artists.

On Tuesday, January 13, 2009, at 3 p.m. (CST) Senator Eliot Shapleigh (D-El Paso) will honor former Texas House of Representatives member Paul Moreno in a reception to follow opening ceremonies of the 81st Legislative Session.

The El Paso Legislative Delegation today announced a plan for the upcoming Regular Session of the 81st Legislature. Each delegation member pledged to focus on these agenda items to get the job done for El Paso. While each member of the delegation will carry several legislative items not on this plan, each member emphasized that this plan is a consensus agenda.

On Monday, January 5, 2009 at 11:30am, the El Paso Legislative Delegation will announce an agenda outlining El Paso's priorities for the upcoming Regular Session of the 81st Legislature.

The first Friday of every month, Senator Shapleigh invites constituents to their El Paso senate office to share coffee and conversation with him and his staff.

"Dr. Cigarroa is a great choice," Senator Shapleigh said. "As a medical school president, he understands the value of education. More than any other system, the UT system must deliver value for education dollars in order for Texas to succeed. Most of the growth in Texas' college graduates will be among Hispanic students and he has a wealth of experience in providing that education."

"Since he first came to El Paso, Ray spent every day working to make us better. His legacy is honest, transparent and effective governance," Shapleigh said.

"Quietly and steadily, Operation Santa Claus has delivered toys and happiness to thousands of children who otherwise would not have the best Christmas. So this Christmas, we salute them with our highest honor."

" Freedom and freedom of expression are not free. Rodriguez's life shows us all the high price of free press here on the border. We honor his life and work. Let us never forget his courage."

A native of El Paso's Segundo Barrio, Jose L. Aguilar is a long-time advocate for El Paso youth and needy members of our community. Aguilar has served as Executive Director of the Our Lady's Youth Center, 501 East Paisano Drive, a center created to combat drug and gang activity in South El Paso. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Aguilar was also instrumental in the original creation of today's Centro de Salud Familiar La Fe, as well as Aliviane, Inc., a minority-operated non-profit organization dedicated to behavioral health, intervention, treatment and education in El Paso County.

"Supporting Texas families to succeed in tough times is our top priority."

"Imagine a day four years from now when every senior graduates as an 'El Paso Entrepreneur'— with real savvy in balancing check books, reading the fine print on credit cards, negotiating a home loan, understanding a college savings plan—knowing and using the key financial skills that matter in achieving stability and success."

"At the 'Invest' conference our community will take strong steps to make El Paso an entrepreneurial community. Now more than ever, sound financial skills are the keys to the 'American Dream.'"

Every month Senator Shapleigh awards one or more persons who have made an extraordinary commitment to service, family and community.

The first Friday of every month, Senator Shapleigh invites constituents to their El Paso senate office to share coffee and conversation with him and his staff.

The summit will include remarks from Texas Senator Eliot Shapleigh, El Paso County Attorney José Rodríguez, El Paso County Commissioner Veronica Escobar, City Council Representative Steve Ortega, TCEQ Border Area Director Ramiro Garcia, and City of El Paso Sustainability Manager Marty Howell.

"Don Haskins was a friend. He was a great coach. He was a mentor. For thousands of us, he was El Paso. His spirit, his pride, his determination lifted us up."

The first Friday of every month, Senator Shapleigh invites constituents to their El Paso senate office to share coffee and conversation with him and his staff.

Every month Senator Shapleigh awards one or more persons who have made an extraordinary commitment to service, family and community.

"What we see in Austin is failed leadership on health care. We need the courage and the will to provide basic and affordable health care coverage to every Texan."

The conference will focus on challenges and solutions for rail transportation in the El Paso-Juarez region.

"Over the last few years, state lawmakers from California to Tamaulipas have united, through the Border Legislative Conference, around a vision of moving people and products safer, faster and smarter in a world of 21st century trade. Now, the southern border, with many millions more crossings and a vibrant trade profile, must unite behind a similar vision to move the new United States administration in January."

The Senate Committee on Transportation & Homeland Security will meet on Wednesday, July 9, in El Paso at the El Paso Public Library (Main Auditorium).

On Monday, June 30 at 1:00 p.m., Senator Shapleigh will honor Paula Powell with the "Adelante Con Ganas Award." Every month Senator Shapleigh awards one or more persons who have made an extraordinary commitment to service, family and community.

Senator Shapleigh to Brief Press on TCEQ Open Records Lawsuit; Agency Seeks to Keep Asarco Ex-Parte Communications Confidential

"From Theodore Roosevelt to John F. Kennedy, our nation has demonstrated the capacity to maximize the security of Americans without sacrificing our basic freedoms—regardless of who you are, where you live, or what happens to be the color of your skin."

"We believe that by working together, we can enhance the great outdoor experience in the crown jewels of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Systems- the El Paso State Parks."

The Americas 2020 Summit is aimed at bringing together government and private sector stakeholders from the U.S., Mexico and Canada to discuss and identify solutions to enhance the security and economic competitiveness of North America.

"We got the idea from an experienced veteran who told us the best things in a soldier's life are hot food and a letter from home."

The project is a letter writing campaign that gives area school children the opportunity to express their gratitude to our troops serving throughout the state. Elementary school students from Canutillo, Socorro, Ysleta, Clint and El Paso school districts have participated in the pen pal project, writing more than 1,700 letters.

"BRAC will impact education, public health, workforce, infrastructure and mental health agencies. To meet the challenge, we must prepare now."

Senator Shapleigh will host a "Coffee with Eliot" Open House and Interactive Visit on Friday, May 2. The first Friday of every month, Senator Shapleigh invites constituents to their El Paso senate office to share coffee and conversation with him and his staff.

"Asarco's '15% Rule' is clear discrimination that may directly affect the health and safety of El Paso steel workers. We want to know what OSHA plans to do to correct it."

Sandie Sparks-Olivar is the director and founder of The Miracle League of El Paso, an organization dedicated to assisting El Paso children ages three and up with mental and physical disabilities to play league baseball. In April, The Miracle League of El Paso celebrates the creation of a specially equipped baseball field at Ponder Park that will allow physically disabled children to play baseball alongside their able-bodied peers.

"Here is where wounded warriors come home. And the measure of our regard for their courage is in the quality of care we provide."

Senator Shapleigh will host a "Coffee with Eliot" Open House and Interactive Visit on Friday, April 4. The first Friday of every month, Senator Shapleigh invites constituents to their El Paso senate office to share coffee and conversation with him and his staff.

Since forming in 1993, the El Paso Affiliate has provided more than $2.2 million dollars to underserved men and women in El Paso, in 2007-2008 alone, providing more than $363,000 to the fight against breast cancer.

"In ten months, America will have a new President and a new Congress. Let us stop ill-conceived walls founded in current notions of racism until new leadership moves us to be the beacon of hope to the world once again."

ncreasingly, infectious Tuberculosis represents a serious social problem, great challenge and cost for the public health system. One-third of the world's population is infected with the bacterium that causes TB.

Senator Shapleigh will host a "Coffee with Eliot" Open House and Interactive Visit on Friday, March 7. The first Friday of every month, Senator Shapleigh invites constituents to their El Paso senate office to share coffee and conversation with him and his staff.

Challenges and Solutions Discussed on Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative

Today, Texas leads the United States in the number of people without health insurance. Harris county leads the state with over 800,000 uninsured residents. Dallas follows with almost 500,000 uninsured residents. In El Paso, 33 percent of the population is uninsured. One in four children has no health insurance at all.

This month's honoree, Rhasean Stephens, is a senior at Jefferson High School and the winner of the Martin Luther King, Jr. committee essay competition.

On Wednesday, Feb. 13, Senator Eliot Shapleigh and El Paso Mayor John Cook will hold a press conference to discuss the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality's (TCEQ) vote on ASARCO's El Paso air permit.

Every month, Senator Shapleigh hosts a Mission Valley Eastside Conference highlighting the work of agencies and organization in the Socorro, Clint, Ysleta and Horizon areas.

"Our nation needs safe, smart and fast ports in a post 9/11 world. What I fear is that an election-driven agenda from the far right-wing is influencing the governor's decision. Hopefully, we can reach agreement on what is best for Texas and America."

Senator Shapleigh will host a "Coffee with Eliot" Open House and Interactive Visit on Friday, February 1. The first Friday of every month, Senator Shapleigh invites constituents to their El Paso senate office to share coffee and conversation with him and his staff.

"Linda Gonzalez-Hensgen works tirelessly to improve the ways in which students at El Paso Community College are able to receive the aid vital to obtaining their education."

"With state-of-the-art technology, government can provide better, faster services at lower cost. That's exactly what taxpayers expect."

"Do the right thing. It's the right thing to do."

On Friday, December 7, Senator Eliot Shapleigh (SD-29) will hold a press conference to discuss the $27 million claim by the U.S. International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC) against ASARCO.

"After 9/11, both border have a keen interest in moving people and product faster, safer and smarter. Now is the time to create an alliance since prosperity in all three countries depends on meeting this challenge."

Senator Shapleigh will host a Special Holiday "Coffee with Eliot" on Friday, December 7. The first Friday of every month, Senator Shapleigh invites constituents to their El Paso senate office to share coffee and conversation with him and his staff.

On Thursday, November 8, 2007 the Texas Senate Committee on Transportation and Homeland Security will hold a hearing in El Paso. The committee will hear testimony on state issues, including the enhanced drivers license program, traffic ticket surcharges, border security, and cross-border trade.

On Wednesday, November 7, 2007 at 11:00 a.m., Senator Shapleigh will honor Capt. Gabriel L. Navarrete with a posthumous "Adelante Con Ganas Award." This month's honoree, Capt. Navarrete, led the Boys of Company E in Italy during WWII .

Senator Shapleigh will host a "Coffee with Eliot" interactive visit on Friday, November 2. The first Friday of every month, Senator Shapleigh invites constituents to their El Paso senate office to share coffee and conversation with him and his staff.

On Saturday, October 27, 2007 at 7:00 a.m., Senator Shapleigh will participate in a environmental clean up sponsored by Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Keep El Paso Beautiful, CEMEX, El Paso Electric and the City of El Paso.

On Thursday, October 25, 2007 at 7:00 p.m., Senator Shapleigh will honor Angel Haney with the Adelante Con Ganas Award at her home in El Paso. Every month Senator Shapleigh awards one or more persons who have made an extraordinary commitment to service, family and community.

"We believe certain counties in Texas are headed for record foreclosures and decreased property values unless strong actions is taken."

"Art is the view from our soul. With this state funding, more El Paso artists can create and promote the unique and wonderful art that makes us who we are today."

"When George Bush ran for President, he promised compassionate conservatism. Here, along the Border, we know too well what that means. For us, it means 'besos y buena suerte.'"

"As policies are crafted in Austin and DC, our vibrant, bi-national region must speak with a firm, confident and united voice about a border based on fast, secure and smart movement of people and products to build 21st century jobs for all our people."

"Now, we must move on to secure accreditation.
That is the next goal for our four-year medical school."

A picture typically says a thousand words. However, on Sunday, September 23, thousands of El Pasoans—family, friends and neighbors opposed to the re-opening of Asarco—will gather together in a community photograph to say one word in a single voice: "No!"

"No" to lead poisoning. "No" to a contaminated environment. "No" to multiple sclerosis clusters. "No" to hazardous waste law violations. "No" to dirty air. "No" to Asarco.

"El Paso-Juárez must push for secure, fast, smart movement of people and products to grow good jobs."

"Over the next few years, El Paso has key bond issues that must pass. Unless people trust public servants with public monies, they will not vote to invest. So now is the time to root out corruption to restore public trust."

"Excessive surcharges and their disproportionate impact on working families, the Driver Responsibility law is creating new debtor prisons. We all want a safe community, but taking parents from children and employees from the workplace to put them in jail because they can't afford to pay traffic fines does not make sense."

On Friday, July 13 at 1:30 p.m., Senator Shapleigh will honor Mary Legorreta with the Adelante Con Ganas Award at her home in El Paso.

On Tuesday, June 26, Senator Shapleigh will honor Barron’s Superette with the Adelante Con Ganas Award. Every month Senator Shapleigh awards one or more persons who have made an extraordinary commitment to service, family and community.

Tomorrow, Saturday, June 23, 2007 at 10:00 a.m., El Paso public officials will sign a "Contract with El Paso" for Ethical Government.

"Justice starts at the courthouse. We must act now to restore confidence and trust in our courts."

The first Friday of every month, Senator Shapleigh invites constituents to their El Paso senate office to share coffee and conversation with him and his staff.

"Our community cannot move to a 21st century knowledge-based economy with a 19th century polluting relic in the midst of our downtown and right next to our university. What Asarco's study fails to show is what 13.3 million pounds of pollution will cost us in health, high tech and quality of life."

Every month Senator Shapleigh awards one or more persons who have made an extraordinary commitment to service, family and community. This month he honors Colonel Robert T. Burns for his tireless commitment to our community and Ft. Bliss.

"This budget is much, much better than the one the Senate passed on April 12. This budget adds $1.5 billion for critical new investments in CHIP, teacher pay raises, highway bonds, better parks, child protection and TEXAS Grants."

"We first started dreaming about a medical school in Unite El Paso in 1992. More than any endeavor, a four-year medical school in El Paso will build jobs and give us a solid foundation for a prosperous future. Fifteen years of hard work have paid off this session. I want to thank my colleagues and especially Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst, who has championed our medical school since day one."

"In cities across Texas, elderly and people with disabilities are suffering abuse at the hands of landlords who put eight or more in a room, take Social Security checks and give almost nothing in return. This bill addresses that abuse."

"It's done. We just needed to work harder to get it done—we're used to that in El Paso."

"Communities In Schools is the best program in Texas to keep kids in school and get them to graduation."

"In hundreds of horrific cases across Texas, the very young and old have been attacked, even killed by packs of pitbulls. With this bill, we send a strong message that we will protect people from dangerous dogs."

"Our RMA will meet mobility needs for many years to come. I congratulate the City for their work and commitment to our transportation needs."

"Loan officers have betrayed the trust of the students they serve. Students deserve an objective assessment of what loan plan is best for them, not the lender."

"Our border is the most vibrant region of the hemisphere with over 68 million legal crossings a year. With passport requirements coming soon, we need to make secure, fast crossings work for all who live and work in our region. S.B. 2027 is modeled on Washington States' bill that puts passport and citizen information in driver's licenses so Border residents need only one document to cross and return."

"Few issues have united El Paso, Juárez and Southern New Mexico like halting the 100 years of pollution caused by Asarco. We will fight this permit as long as Asarco's pollutants contaminate our air, our soil and our children."

"George Bush once said, 'America, at its best, is a place where personal responsibility is valued and expected.' In Health and Human Services in Texas we must expect more than failure."

"For too many Texans, affordable health care is out of reach. Our plan will make quality health care available for all Texans."

"In today's knowledge-based world, what you earn depends on what you learn."

"Ft. Bliss will grow faster than any base in the U.S. With these bills, and with the Inner Loop contract at TxDOT, we send a strong message that Texas supports our troops."

"In the West, cactus rustlers are stealing rare state treasures, like the Texas Rainbow and Golden Barrel, and taking them to Arizona and California for yards. We need to protect these rare and vulnerable cacti from theft, and protect our Chihuahua Desert environment."

Tomorrow, Tuesday, April 17, beginning at 9:00 a.m., the Senate Business & Commerce Committee will hear legislation, filed by Senator Eliot Shapleigh, aimed at curbing predatory lending abuses in Texas. The bills are S.B. 856, S.B. 857, and S.B. 858.

"Today, vote me as standing for children. We will build the medical school—but we must build a state that cares for children too."

"In our government, budgets reflect our values. Texas' budget is a statement of our moral choices. With the sober reality facing Texans today, our priority should be an investment in our children, not tax cuts for millionaires four years from now."

"The Frew case is to health care what Edgewood was to schools. Now, the State must provide basic access to health care for 106,000 El Paso children."

On Wednesday, April 4, Senator Shapleigh will host El Paso's first Tele-Town Hall meeting, starting at 8:00 p.m. Special guest for the Tele-Town Hall meeting will be Texas Tech Chancellor Kent Hance.

"In Texas, predatory lending is a plague. Seven of the ten highest sub-prime lending cities are in Texas. Some of these payday loans have a 1153% interest rate after all the fees are added in."

Today, the Texas Senate voted to approve Jay Kimbrough as Conservator of the Texas Youth Commission, with Senator Eliot Shapleigh casting the one "no" vote.

"El Paso-Juárez must push for secure, fast, smart movement of people and products to grow good jobs."

The preservation and promotion of El Paso's natural beauty will be the focus of a press conference scheduled for tomorrow, Friday, March 23, by Senator Eliot Shapleigh.

Senator Shapleigh will hold a press conference on S.B. 1573, the 21st Century College Success Act.

"When essential government functions are privatized, ask the question: Who gets the money? The concept here was flawed. Now we've paid the price. Children should never be privatized."

On Friday, March 9, Senator Shapleigh will brief the media on BRAC-related legislation he has filed in the 80th Legislative Session. The legislation discussed will include S.B. 960, S.B. 961, S.B. 962 and S.B. 374.

The Texas Senate unanimously passed this evening SR 384, requesting that the Legislative Audit Committee investigate the allegations and determine whether a condition of gross fiscal mismanagement exists in the Texas Youth Commission.

"Because of incompetence 200,000 children lost CHIP coverage. Here in Texas, HHSC is the functional equivalent of FEMA."

"$350 million is the single largest highway project in El Paso history."

The first Friday of every month, Senator Shapleigh invites constituents to their El Paso senate office to share coffee and conversation with him and his staff.

Every month Senator Shapleigh awards one or more persons who have made an extraordinary commitment to service, family and community. This month he honors United Blood Services for their tireless commitment to the health of El Paso's community.

Today's digital natives are captivated with teacher created lessons that infuse colors, sounds, movies and animations to target key concepts. Our teachers are transforming the way they teach in order to address the various learning styles of their students.

“One year ago today, Jennifer’s life ended in tragic violence. With this bill, we remember her, honor her and re-dedicate ourselves to breaking the cycle of violence that hurts so many women and families all across Texas.”

"Why 'bust the cap' when we don't know what will be spent? What's more important –tax cuts for the wealthy or CHIP for Texas children?"

Senator Shapleigh will hold his first "Coffee with Eliot" open door and interactive visit tomorrow, February 2.

"Without the courage to invest in the minds of our children, and steadfast support for great schools, we face a daunting prospect. Those who value tax cuts over children and budget cuts over college have put Texas at risk in her ability to compete and succeed."

"Our number one goal for El Paso is to fully fund the $43.8 million needed for 1st and 2nd year faculty. With the full amount in the base bill, we're off to a great start."

"The web is the best way for us to connect our people to Austin. These new features make it the best website in Texas."