It's been a busy start to Fall 2024. Over the past few months, I have continued attending and speaking at numerous events throughout District 129. Connecting with so many of my constituents has been incredibly rewarding as we discuss the critical issues that matter most to our community.

With summer behind us, my team and I are preparing for the 89th Legislative Session, which begins in January 2025. We are reviewing interim charges and beginning work on legislation that will best serve the people of District 129 and all of Texas.

As always, if there is anything my office can assist you with, please don't hesitate to reach out. My contact information can be found at the bottom of this newsletter.

Wishing you and your families a wonderful and prosperous fall season.

Earlier this week, we solemnly mark 1 year since the horrific terrorist attacks of October 7th, 2023, when over 1,200 innocent Israeli civilians lost their lives in a series of brutal attacks.

My heart goes out to the families who lost loved ones, to those who survived this unspeakable tragedy, and to our Jewish neighbors here in Texas who continue to grieve. The images and stories from that day remind us that we must stand united against terrorism and hatred in all its forms.

Today, we reaffirm our unwavering support for Israel and its right to defend its citizens. We also recommit ourselves to fighting antisemitism here at home and ensuring that all our communities can live in peace and security.

Insurance

In August, I stood alongside 23 fellow Coastal Legislators to strongly urge the TWIA board not to increase rates on policyholders. Unfortunately, the board chose to disregard our request and is now seeking approval from the Texas Department of Insurance to raise premiums.

Fighting for lower insurance rates has always been one of my top priorities as a legislator, and I remain committed to advocating for more affordable rates for both TWIA and non-TWIA residents alike.

As a member of the Texas House Insurance Committee, I had the opportunity to question the Texas Insurance Commissioner about the rising insurance costs. Like many of you, I've felt the impact on my own home and car insurance. During her testimony she laid out multiple factors driving these increases include:

• Inflation and supply chain disruptions have increased the cost of supplies and labor.

• Texas experiences frequent and severe weather events, causing significant losses.

• Home and vehicle values have risen sharply, leading to higher premiums.

• Increased vehicle collisions and risky driver behavior have driven up auto insurance costs.

• Fraudulent activities add to the overall expenses that insurers pass on to consumers.

• Last year’s rise in reinsurance costs impacted insurance rates, although they are now stabilizing.

• Geographic variations mean some areas face higher risks, influencing regional insurance rates.

Rest assured, I am committed to thoroughly understanding these factors and to eliminating any legislative barriers that contribute to higher costs. Your concerns are my priority, and I am dedicated to finding solutions that benefit us all. If you would like to view the entire hearing, please click here: https://house.texas.gov/video-audio/committee-broadcasts/

District Newsletter

Earlier this summer, I mailed a district newsletter to the residents of District 129, updating them on what is happening in and around the Capitol in Austin. You can read an electronic version of that newsletter by clicking here.

Around the District

I had the honor of presenting resolutions to Carolyn Russell and Roy Penny some of the original founders of the Bridge Over Troubled Waters in 1978. Their story of prayerful & humble beginnings on how this organization was started is inspiring. From a budget of $8,000 serving 5 to a budget of $8,000,000 and serving over 500,000 families throughout the 45 years is life changing.

It was great to be at the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership Golf Tournament and see so many community leaders and partners helping grow our region’s economy and help create jobs for our area.

It was an honor to attend the annual gala for Kidz Harbor. They are a great organization to does amazing things for children in our area.

Thank you to Beverley Ferguson for accepting the Outstanding Elected Official Award on my behalf at the 2024 Chinese Moon Festival hosted bythe Space City Professionals Association.

How to Track Legislation

Ever wonder how the laws that impact your everyday life originate? While this graphic provides you with a simplified overview, You can walk through the entire legislative process by reading this blog post from the Texas House Republican aucus on how a bill becomes a law in Texas. From a bill being introduced to it becoming law or vetoed, there are many steps ahead for the many bills that have been filed.