(Monday, May 29, 2023)

The Senate met at 10:32 a.m. pursuant to adjournment and was called to order by the President.

The roll was called and the following Senators were present:  Alvarado, Bettencourt, Birdwell, Blanco, Campbell, Creighton, Eckhardt, Flores, Gutierrez, Hall, Hancock, Hinojosa, Huffman, Hughes, Johnson, King, Kolkhorst, LaMantia, Menéndez, Middleton, Miles, Nichols, Parker, Paxton, Perry, Schwertner, Sparks, Springer, West, Whitmire, Zaffirini.

The President announced that a quorum of the Senate was present.

Chaplain James Campbell, Texas Army National Guard, Austin, offered the invocation as follows:

Heavenly Father, creator God, in the good times and in the challenging times of this life, You are still God, our rock and our refuge. We fully agree with the psalmist in Psalm 106 who proclaimed, Give thanks to the Lord for He is good, His love endures forever. Father, as our representatives conclude their legislative work, we ask that Your will, not ours, be done. We pray that Your blessing would fall upon the diligent labor of our servant leaders, so that what they have accomplished would honor and glorify Your name and benefit the people of the great State of Texas. We thank them, God, for their dedicated service to this session. Heavenly Father, on this Memorial Day, we remember. We remember our fathers, our mothers, our brothers and sisters, and our aunts and uncles, and friends, who gave their lives in the service of this great nation. We remember their sacrifice, their devotion to duty, and most importantly, their love for one another. Father, many of us here today who have experienced war, know that during armed conflict, politics, religion, and societal differences fall to the wayside. It is only love and sacrifice for one another that rule the day. As Your Son told us, Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends. Father, may we never forget, and may we always show eternal gratitude to the families of our fallen comrades. We pray Your comfort, Your mercy, and Your grace be upon them all the days of their lives. I ask, God, that You would be with us on this day of remembrance and all the days of our lives until we are called into Your presence. It is through the name of Jesus Christ I pray these things. Amen.

Senator Whitmire moved that the reading of the Journal of the proceedings of the previous day be dispensed with and the Journal be approved as printed.

The motion prevailed without objection.

The President announced that the time had arrived for the election of President Pro Tempore Ad Interim of the 88th Legislature.

Senator Huffman placed in nomination the name of Senator Charles Schwertner for the office of President Pro Tempore Ad Interim of the 88th Legislature.

The nominating speech by Senator Huffman and the remarks made to second the nomination were ordered reduced to writing and printed in the Senate Journal as follows:

President:  The next order of business is the election of the President Pro Tempore. The Chair recognizes Senator Huffman.

Senator Huffman:  Thank you, Mr. President and Members. I rise today to nominate Senator Charles Schwertner to serve as President Pro Tempore Ad Interim. We want to welcome his beautiful family to the Senate Chamber, as well. It's great to have you here. I rise today with great pride and I'm very honored that Senator Schwertner asked me to nominate him today. I've had the honor, the privilege, and the fun of sitting next to Senator Schwertner for several sessions. I used to sit right where Senator Campbell's at. Think I was in Nathan Johnson's seat at one time, and then I sat here, so, I've been watching you all these years. We had a lot of fun. Some days were better than others, but it's been great to serve with you all these years, and so it's a lot of fun to stand up here today and get to nominate you. You know, we've all watched you, we know a lot about you. We know that you are brilliant and that you have a unique ability to get very, very complex issues, gather them together, forge them into legislation that has sweeping reforms and sweeping consequences for the entire State of Texas, and that is truly a gift. You're also able to forge together factions to gain the support that you need. And I didn't know what I was going to say in this speech, but a couple of nights ago we were here, and I want to quote what Senator Miles said. And he said, for your, he wanted to thank you for your tenacity in putting together what I believe will be one of the greatest bills coming out of session. When we want to, we can work together. And so, you were able to forge this coalition to come together and vote for very important legislation. That tenacity will serve you well as you represent us as the President Pro Tempore. I watched you last night when you thought, you know, the whole grid had fallen apart, the legislation. You walked around with that green CCR form for hours with a determined look on your face, storming between the House, Lieutenant Governor, Members, the Conference Committee Members, and you accomplished something great that will have sweeping consequences for the future of Texas. That's just an example of your tenacity. You have a work ethic. I, you know, I always marvel, you get so much done, and you never have anything on your desk, ever, I don't know how you do it. Sometimes I look at Senator Kolkhorst and myself, we have stuff piled up, stuff on the floor, but not you. You'll be sitting there getting ready to do a major bill with nothing on the floor. So, your work ethic, your brilliance, your fearless loyalty to the Senate, which I have seen over and over again, will serve us all well as we move into, perhaps special sessions, into a historic, perhaps constitutional proceeding. I know you will be a great leader for us. So, it's with great pride that I nominate you this morning. Thank you.

President:  Thank you, Senator Huffman. Senator Zaffirini, you are recognized.

Senator Zaffirini:  Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. President and Members, I rise to second the nomination of Senator, Dr. Charles Schwertner to serve as our President Pro Tempore Ad Interim. I speak with great authority, Members, because I've sat behind him for 10 years, his entire tenure in the Texas Senate. So, I speak with experience, with insight, and frankly, with a lot of eavesdropping. So, I know him well. I only wish this were a roast because my job would be a lot easier and my speech would be a lot better. But his mother, Kay, is here, so that would be out of the question. I appreciate the opportunity to second the nomination, and when I thought about Senator Schwertner, I thought of the words by President Theodore Roosevelt that he wrote so long ago, The credit belongs to the man in the arena whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood. His place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat. No one who knows Charles Schwertner today would ever call him a cold and timid soul. And he has known the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat. So, this is the man that we honor today because of his leadership in our arena, the legislative arena. Charles Schwertner is a sixth generation Texan of Czech descent, in case you didn't know that. He was born from Abilene where he grew up, 800 miles away in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, with a jar of West Texas soil under his birthing bed. He learned his values and his beliefs and his work ethic from his family. First of all, working at the pharmacy with his maternal grandfather, listening to customers and patients, learning to care for them, and learning how to listen and how to respond. But then, he also learned his work ethic and learned how to develop an ability to carry a heavy load, which has served him well in the Texas Senate, working at farming and ranching with his father, Members, picking cotton, picking cotton and carrying heavy loads of it in tow sacks that were wrapped around his shoulders and dragged three yards behind him. That is a work ethic that has certainly served him well. And that has been unbelievable to see him grow in the Texas Senate, to see him work so hard to get things done. He could have gone to Wall Street because he loves finance and he loves high mathematics and he loves business. But instead, at 22, he became the youngest pharmacist in the State of Texas. And then he went on to UTMB, got his medical degree, became the orthopedic surgeon that he is today. He married Belinda, who's with us today, his medical school sweetheart. And their greatest claim to fame, not only that they'll be married 26 years next month, their greatest claim to fame is giving birth to these three young, handsome men, Carson, Zachary, and Matthew, listen to this, in 27 months. Every woman in this Chamber is thinking that is unfathomable. Giving birth to three babies in 27 months. If you want to visualize Charles Schwertner as a first-time candidate when he ran for State Representative at the age of 40, visualize JFK at the age of 40, charming, charismatic, a compelling, riveting, inspiring public speaker. Charles' most ardent supporters at the time say he was the opposite, painstakingly shy, endearingly goofy, and with the public speaking personality of a tree stump. That's what they said, Charles. I do not make this up. But they loved him. They loved him because he came across like real people. And the real people voted for him. And he won without a runoff in a four-way race, 56 percent. But he's particularly proud, if you talk to him, about carrying almost 100 percent of a little town named Schwertner, Texas. Too bad the population is only 32. But, oh well, 100 percent is very good, at least I think so. He has come to the Texas Senate only after becoming the first State Representative to be elected after the first term. And that is an accomplishment in and of itself. Of course, his most memorable experience from that first year is his famous resolution declaring his favorite, the pecan pie, the official pie of Texas, and his most memorable experience impersonating John Whitmire in our Freshman Follies. But soon he learned to command an audience, as Senator Huffman described. He learned to command an audience, he learned to master so many issues that were critical. And with hard work and determination he improved his communication skills, and today, he rises to debate calmly, confidently, and capably, the best debaters in the Texas Senate. And that is quite an accomplishment, that truly is. Now, one of those ardent supporters, in fact the one who called him the public speaker with the personality of a tree stump, she, today, describes him as a big man with big ideas. He is a gift to the Texas Senate she says, a gift to the State of Texas. And then she asks, what big bill has there been without Charles Schwertner's name on it? And then she asks, what would Dan Patrick do without Charles Schwertner? We wonder, too, because you're a member of the A-Team, and he depends on you and so do many, many people you come across. Now, to what does he attribute his success? To his relationships, because this session he joined the elite ranks that include Senator Hancock, Senator Huffman, the elite ranks of Senators who have passed controversial, important legislation, potentially divisive, potentially about to be voted down or up along party lines, and he did it, as did they, with overwhelming bipartisan support reflecting bipartisan collaboration. That is an accomplishment. But then he goes back, he says it's all about relationships. He says Nathan and José and I have so much in common. He says when the three of us ran, based on the same issues, local control, constitutional carry, Medicaid expansion. One minor detail, Senator, they're on the other side of the issue, but I'm glad you have so much in common with them. Truly, I am, because those issues are important to the people of the State of Texas. Now, we all know Charles Schwertner as a strong man, a strong man who cares deeply about the State of Texas. And we all know how hard he works to do a good job in the Texas Senate, because he cares about Texas, he cares about families, he cares about his core beliefs, and he cares about conservative values. But did you know that in his spare time he plays fantasy games? Dragons and Dungeons, to be exact. And did you know that he has read every one, every single book written by J. R. R. Tolkien, including The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings. And did you know that he has an extensive, valuable comic book collection? He collects Marvel comics about superheroes. In fact, he even owns Iron Man #1, X-Men #1, Daredevil #1, valuable copies. And he has been credited, time and time again, by the groups that support him and who have presented him with awards as being their superhero. They say he uses his super legislative powers to do good for their causes. Well, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and so I consider his most important awards the ones that I have given him. In 2015, La Cuchara, the Big Spoon, for stirring the pot on more legislative issues than any other Senator. In 2017, 2019, and 2021, a three-peat, much to the chagrin of my friend, Senator Hall, who came in a distant second, the Doctor No award for voting no on more bills than any other Senators. But my favorite is today's and it will be awarded for reasons I will describe only privately, but it is legislatively related, and it is, behold, the Greedy Piggy award. In its mouth is one of my hearing requests. And only he will understand it, but I'll tell you privately. Each of us has a special relationship with Senator Schwertner. Mine is based not only on proximity, because you see how closely we've sat for 10 years, but on the many, many disagreements we have had over the years. And our relationship is best described by that legendary exchange between Lady Astor and Winston Churchill. Imagine me going up to Mr. Chairman, and for the umpteenth time, asking him to set my bills. Imagine him responding for the umpteenth time, smiling, shuffling, aw shucking, blaming his sweet staff for not setting my bills, which I don't believe, causing me to say, Charles, if you were my husband, I'd poison your coffee, causing him to respond, Z, if you were my wife, I'd drink it. It's not that funny, Members. I'm watching the Lieutenant Governor. He's laughing a little too hard. Thank God that this orthopedic surgeon has a funny bone and he can laugh at jokes, he can laugh with us, he can laugh at himself. But today we honor him, not for his humility, not for his diligence, but for his leadership, his extraordinarily hard work, and for being the kind of strong man described by Theodore Roosevelt when he wrote, His face is smart but his place shall never be among those timid and so cold souls who know neither victory nor defeat. Congratulations, Charles. Mr. President, I second the nomination of Senator Charles Schwertner to serve as our President Pro Tempore.

President:  Thank you, Senator Zaffirini. You always surprise us. Senator Campbell, you're recognized.

Senator Campbell:  Thank you, Mr. President. Well, it's going to be pretty hard to top Senator Zaffirini's not seconding your nomination, but as you've heard, Senator Schwertner started his professional career as a pharmacist, and that alone would be enough for most. However, choosing then to become a physician, he faced the challenges of medical school, and I'll attest that they are definite challenges, head on, followed by the rigorous and tough orthopedic residency. Now, with the, as a successful orthopedist dealing with fractures, trauma, joint replacements, and a lot more, he chose to step in and deal with a fractured government. First, as a Representative, now as Senator. His deep understanding of the government intricacies and interference in health care landed him Chair of Health and Human. But it is his business acumen and his skills in strategy that makes him well suited as Chairman for Business and Commerce. Serving as Chair of Sunset, simultaneously, with Business and Commerce is a very heavy lift. But he did them both very well. And we all recognize the great work that you've done on, and that you've accomplished on all three committees, but especially this session and even during the interim, as you were working to protect the electric grid to keep the lights on in Texas. The hallmark of his service in both the House and the Senate is his remarkable leadership skills. His insight and knowledge as well, as well as his ability to strategize, bring stakeholders together, focus on solution, has advanced him to leadership position in the Senate. Like most sons of Texas, life's not always been easy or without challenges. But it's in those moments of greatest challenge, it is his commitment to the core values of his life that brought him through the struggles and propelled him forward. Those values have guided him and his work in the Senate. Whether putting bones back together or piecing together specific legislation, he's tough, but he has a tender heart. Senator Schwertner, surround yourself with wise counsel. Acknowledge that God is everywhere and He's willing to guide you. You are a great leader and you possess the leadership qualities that are needed in the very important position of President Pro Tempore. Members, it's these qualities that will enable and empower him as he leads in this critically, again, important position for the State of Texas. Congratulations and happy birthday.

President:  Senator Huffman is recognized to close on the nomination.

Senator Huffman:  Thank you, Mr. President and Members. It is my great privilege and honor to move that we elect Senator Charles Schwertner for President Pro Tempore Ad Interim of the Texas Senate.

President:  The question is on the election of the Senator from Williamson County, Senator Charles Schwertner, to the office of President Pro Tempore Ad Interim of the Texas Senate, 88th Legislature. Will all those in favor please rise. The motion is adopted and Charles Schwertner, Senator Schwertner, you're elected President Pro Tempore Ad Interim.

On motion of Senator Huffman, Senator Schwertner was elected President Pro Tempore Ad Interim.

The President declared that the Honorable Charles Schwertner had been duly elected President Pro Tempore Ad Interim of the 88th Legislature by acclamation.

The President appointed the following Committee to Escort Senator Schwertner, his wife, Belinda, and sons, Carson, Zachary, and Matthew to the President's Rostrum: Senators Nichols, Creighton, Kolkhorst, Hinojosa, and Johnson.

Senator Schwertner and his party were then escorted to the President's Rostrum by the committee.

The President administered the Constitutional Oath of Office to Senator Schwertner as follows:

I, Charles Schwertner, do solemnly swear, that I will faithfully execute the duties of the office of President Pro Tempore Ad Interim of the Senate of the State of Texas, and will to the best of my ability preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States and of this state, so help me God.

President Pro Tempore Ad Interim Schwertner addressed the Senate as follows:

Well, I knew what I was getting myself into when I asked Senator Zaffirini to write one of the nominating speeches. We were talking on the floor yesterday and I, and I asked if it was going to be a roast, and she goes, No, it's not going to be a roast. That was a little bit of a bake, wasn't it? Thank you. Thank you, Lieutenant Governor, Governor Patrick. Fellow Senators, ladies and gentlemen, I'd like to recognize a few people first. My mother, on the floor, if you'll rise please, Kay Schwertner. Obviously, the people right behind me, Belinda Schwertner and our boys, Carson, Zachary, and Matthew, really proud of these guys. They were all born within 27 months, top to bottom, January 16, 2000, to April, January 16, 2000, to April 15, 2002. So, top to bottom is a short amount of time. Right? I'd like to recognize my staff. I have a whole bunch of staff throughout the Capitol over the years, but if y'all please rise. They are, without them, obviously, Senators know, without a good staff we can't accomplish much. Before I begin, I just wanted to say a word that is most fitting and appropriate on this day to first acknowledge the honored dead whose service and sacrifice we can never repay. Those fallen in defense of our nation, who gave their lives full measure, devotion, in protecting our country. So, I know there are many, many, many different ceremonies going around, going on across this nation and across this state. And I believe it is fitting and appropriate that we recognize those who have truly served and given all. So, Members, and again, honored guests, as we gather in this majestic Chamber surrounded by the illuminating Texas-themed chandeliers, portraits of historical figures adorning all the walls, and the Senate composite portraits from years and years past, we cannot help but be inspired. These glimpses of history underscore the significance of the work we are entrusted with and its impact on the lives of the people of Texas. I can still recall the advice given to me by my predecessor in the House of Representatives. He said to me that as you walk the halls of the Texas Capitol, passing composites of Legislatures long forgotten, that you should reflect. That serves as a daily reminder of both the reassuring permanence of this place and our own impermanence within it. Ultimately, we might be little more than a moment in time, but our moment is now. Today, I stand before you as your Senate President Pro Tempore, humbled and overcome by an unwavering belief and the promise of this great state. It's our responsibility to make our impact while we can and make a difference in the lives of Texans we've been sent here to serve, regardless of whether our names are ultimately remembered. In the rapidly changing world we find ourselves in, it's more important than ever that we summon the courage to rise above petty personal grievances and partisan agendas, find common agreement, and commit ourselves wholeheartedly to the service of all Texans. As we confront the challenges that lie before us, let us draw upon the indelible spirit of those Texas pioneers who blazed trails through untamed lands and overcame unimaginable hardships as they carved out a new nation in their pursuit of freedom, independence, and a better life for their children and grandchildren. As I look out from this podium, I see in the back of the Chamber, as we all do, the massive paintings of H. A. McArdle adorning the rear of the Chamber, depicting the bravery and sacrifice of the Alamo defenders on March 6, 1836, that painting right there. And the fortitude and resolve shown in a final triumph at the Battle of San Jacinto on April 21, 1836, that painting there. Timeless reminders of the principles that continue to encapsulate the spirit of Texas, bravery, sacrifice, fortitude, and resolve. These battles etched in the hearts and minds of every Texan, demonstrate that when the people of Texas are united for a common cause, there is no challenge we cannot rise to meet and no ambition that remains beyond our grasp. Let us draw inspiration from those who have come before us and shape the history of this remarkable state by joining forces and harnessing the transformative power of our collective will. By cultivating the continued growth and diversification of the Texas economy, we can support the kind of innovation and technological advancement that will guide our state to prosperity for generations to come. With our state's vibrant energy and agricultural backbone, expansive coastline and ports, thriving aerospace and medical industries, and its position as a home for businesses of every kind, Texas is uniquely, uniquely positioned to have an immense future. By building the kind of Texas that encourages small business, promotes emerging industries, and attracts new investments, we can ensure that the Texas dream remains attainable for all who seek it. To my fellow Senators, I thank you for your service. As your President Pro Tempore, it's a remarkable honor to help lead such a distinguished group of public servants and the work that lies before us. May our actions today and in the future reverberate through the annals of history. But if instead the history books are silent on our actions, let it at least be known to us assembled here that we have quietly given all like our predecessors in the composite portraits in the hallways of the Capitol in trying to leave an indelible mark on the lives and in the future of those we are privileged to represent. May we draw inspiration from our state's rich heritage and exceptionalism, bravery, sacrifice, fortitude, and resolve. And may providence guide our hand as we forge a brighter future for the people of Texas. May God bless each and every one of you and may God continue to bless this great State of Texas. Thank you.

On motion of Senator Whitmire, the Senate at 11:12 a.m. recessed until 1:00 p.m. today.

The Senate met at 2:46 p.m. and was called to order by Senator Flores.

HOUSE CHAMBER

Austin, Texas

Monday, May 29, 2023 - 1

The Honorable President of the Senate

Senate Chamber

Austin, Texas

Mr. President:

I am directed by the house to inform the senate that the house has taken the following action:

THE HOUSE HAS PASSED THE FOLLOWING MEASURES:

Commemorating the 50th anniversary of The University of Texas Permian Basin on the occasion of UTPB Day at the State Capitol on May 3, 2023.

Congratulating Dr. Jeff P. Ripley on his retirement as associate director for county operations at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.

Instructing the enrolling clerk of the senate to make a correction in S.B. No. 1725.

Respectfully,

/s/Stephen Brown,

Chief Clerk

House of Representatives

The Presiding Officer laid before the Senate the following resolution:

WHEREAS, Senate Joint Resolution No. 75 has been adopted by the senate and the house of representatives and is being prepared for enrollment; and

WHEREAS, The resolution contains a technical error that should be corrected; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the 88th Legislature of the State of Texas, That the enrolling clerk of the senate be instructed to make the following correction to the enrolled version of Senate Joint Resolution No. 75:

In SECTION 1 of the resolution, in added Section 49-d-16(b), Article III, Texas Constitution (page 1, line 16), between the underlined period and "The", insert "Money transferred from the Texas water fund to a fund or account may be spent without further legislative appropriation in the manner provided by general law governing the use of money in the fund or account to which the money was transferred."

PERRY

SCR 62 was read.

On motion of Senator Perry and by unanimous consent, the resolution was considered immediately and was adopted by the following vote:  Yeas 31, Nays 0.

Senator Bettencourt offered the following resolution:

WHEREAS, Dale Craymer is retiring as president of the Texas Taxpayers and Research Association on July 1, 2023, drawing to a close an outstanding career with the organization that has spanned nearly three decades; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Craymer joined TTARA in 1997, and he served as chief economist before being promoted to president in 2009; under his able leadership, the organization has served as an effective advocate for responsible fiscal and tax policy in Texas and has provided its members with important information, analysis, and resources; and

WHEREAS, Engaged in his professional community, Mr. Craymer is a member of the Business Tax Advisory Committee of Texas and the National Taxpayers Conference, and he has served on the executive boards of the National Association of State Budget Officers and the Council of Governors' Policy Advisors; before joining TTARA, he served as deputy director of the Office of Budget and Planning for Governor George Bush, as director of the Office of Budget and Planning for Governor Ann Richards, as fiscal analyst for Speaker of the House Gib Lewis, and as director of the Office of Revenue Estimating for Comptroller Bob Bullock; he holds a master's degree in economics from The University of Texas at Austin; and

WHEREAS, In all his endeavors, Mr. Craymer enjoys the love and support of his wife, Theresa, and he takes great pride in their children, Kyle, Jason, and Lily; and

WHEREAS, Dale Craymer has greatly benefited his fellow Texans through his skill, dedication, and professionalism, and he may indeed reflect with pride on a career well spent; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the 88th Texas Legislature hereby congratulate Dale Craymer on his retirement as president of the Texas Taxpayers and Research Association and extend to him sincere best wishes for the future; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Mr. Craymer as an expression of high regard by the Texas Senate.

SR 715 was read.

On motion of Senator Middleton and by unanimous consent, the names of the Lieutenant Governor and Senators were added to the resolution as signers thereof.

On motion of Senator Bettencourt, the resolution was adopted without objection.

Senator Bettencourt, joined by Senators Eckhardt and Hinojosa, was recognized and introduced to the Senate Dale Craymer, accompanied by TTARA Vice-president Jennifer Rabb.

The Senate welcomed its guests.

HOUSE CHAMBER

Austin, Texas

Monday, May 29, 2023 - 2

The Honorable President of the Senate

Senate Chamber

Austin, Texas

Mr. President:

I am directed by the house to inform the senate that the house has taken the following action:

THE HOUSE HAS PASSED THE FOLLOWING MEASURES:

Instructing the enrolling clerk of the senate to make corrections in S.J.R. No. 75.

Respectfully,

/s/Stephen Brown,

Chief Clerk

House of Representatives

Senator West was recognized and introduced to the Senate his wife, Carol West.

Senator West was again recognized and introduced to the Senate La Juana Barton and Teresa Moreno and congratulated them each for their 30 years of service.

The Senate welcomed its guests.

Senator Whitmire offered the following resolution:

BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:

SECTION 1.  CAUCUS REPORT. At a caucus held on May 29, 2023, and attended by 31 members of the senate, the caucus made the recommendations for the operation of the senate contained in this resolution.

SECTION 2.  EMPLOYEES. (a)  The lieutenant governor may employ the employees necessary for the operation of the office of the lieutenant governor from the closing of this session and until the convening of the next session. The lieutenant governor and the secretary of the senate shall be furnished postage, telegraph, telephone, express, and all other expenses incident to their respective offices.

(b)  The secretary of the senate is the chief executive administrator and shall be retained during the interval between adjournment of this session and the convening of the next session of the legislature. The secretary of the senate may employ the employees necessary for the operation of the senate and to perform duties as may be required in connection with the business of the state from the closing of this session and until the convening of the next session.

(c)  Each senator may employ secretarial and other office staff for the senator's office.

(d)  The chairman of the administration committee is authorized to retain a sufficient number of staff employees to conclude the work of the enrolling clerk, calendar clerk, journal clerk, and sergeant-at-arms. The administration committee shall establish the salaries for the senate staff.

SECTION 3.  SENATE OFFICERS. (a)  The following elected officers of the 88th Legislature shall serve for the interval between adjournment of this session and the convening of the next session of the legislature:

(1)  Secretary of the Senate--Patsy Spaw;

(2)  Calendar Clerk--Tracy Ortiz;

(3)  Doorkeeper--Matthew Peabody;

(4)  Enrolling Clerk--Patience Worrel;

(5)  Journal Clerk--Lourdes Litchfield; and

(6)  Sergeant-at-Arms--Austin Osborn.

(b)  All employees and elected officers of the senate shall operate under the direct supervision of the secretary of the senate during the interim.

(c)  Officers named in this section serve at the will of the senate.

SECTION 4.  PARLIAMENTARIAN AND ASSISTANT PARLIAMENTARIAN. The parliamentarian, Karina Davis, and the assistant parliamentarian, Colby Beuck, are named by the lieutenant governor and are officers of the senate. They shall serve for the interval between adjournment of this session and the convening of the next session of the legislature.

SECTION 5.  DUTIES OF CHAIRMAN OF ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE. (a)  The chairman of the administration committee shall place the senate chamber in order and purchase supplies and make all necessary repairs and improvements between the adjournment of this session and the convening of the next session of the legislature.

(b)  The chairman shall make an inventory of all furniture and fixtures in the senate chamber and in the private offices of the members, as well as of the supplies and equipment on hand in the purchasing and supply department, and shall close the books for the Regular Session of the 88th Legislature.

(c)  The chairman shall not acquire any equipment on a rental/purchase plan unless the equipment is placed on the senate inventory at the termination of the plan.

(d)  The chairman shall examine records and accounts payable out of the contingent expense fund as necessary to approve all claims and accounts against the senate, and no claim or account shall be paid without the consent and approval of the chairman.

(e)  The chairman and any member of the administration committee shall be entitled to receive actual and necessary expenses incurred during the interim.

(f)  In addition to the duties of the administration committee expressly imposed by this resolution, the committee shall take actions necessary to ensure that the administrative operations of the senate comply with applicable law and are conducted effectively and efficiently.

SECTION 6.  JOURNAL. (a)  The secretary of the senate shall have 225 volumes of the Senate Journal of the Regular Session of the 88th Legislature printed. Two hundred and twenty-five copies shall be bound in buckram and delivered to the secretary of the senate who shall forward one volume to each member of the senate, the lieutenant governor, and each member of the house of representatives on request.

(b)  The printing of the journals shall be done in accordance with the provisions of this resolution under the supervision of the chairman of the administration committee. The chairman shall refuse to receive or receipt for the journals until corrected and published in accordance with the preexisting law as finally approved by the chairman of the administration committee. When the accounts have been certified by the chairman of the administration committee, the accounts shall be paid out of the contingent expense fund of the 88th Legislature.

SECTION 7.  PAYMENT OF SALARIES AND EXPENSES. (a)  Salaries and expenses authorized by this resolution shall be paid out of the per diem and contingent expense fund of the 88th Legislature as provided by this section.

(b)  The senate shall request the comptroller of public accounts to issue general revenue warrants for:

(1)  payment of the employees of the lieutenant governor's office, the lieutenant governor, members of the senate, employees of the senate committees, and employees of the senate, except as provided by Subchapter H, Chapter 660, Government Code, upon presentation of the payroll account signed by the chairman of the administration committee and the secretary of the senate; and

(2)  the payment of materials, supplies, and expenses of the senate, including travel expenses for members and employees, upon vouchers signed by the chairman of the administration committee and the secretary of the senate.

SECTION 8.  EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENT AND PER DIEM. (a)  In furtherance of the legislative duties and responsibilities of the senate, the administration committee shall charge to the individual member's office budget:

(1)  the reimbursement of all actual expenses incurred by the member when traveling in performance of legislative duties and responsibilities or incident to those duties; and

(2)  the payment of all other reasonable and necessary expenses for the operation of the office of the individual senator during any period the legislature is not in session. Expenditures for these services by the administration committee are authorized as an expense of the senate and shall not be restricted to Austin but may be incurred in individual senatorial districts. Such expenses shall be paid from funds appropriated for the use of the senate on vouchers approved by the chairman of the administration committee and the secretary of the senate in accordance with regulations governing such expenditures.

(b)  Each senator shall be permitted a payroll of $63,000 per month to employ secretarial and other office staff and for intrastate travel expenses for staff employees. The amount shall increase to $66,150 starting on September 1, 2024. This payroll amount accrues on the first day of the month and may not be expended prior to the month in which it accrues, but any unexpended portion for a month may be carried forward from month to month until the end of the fiscal year. An unexpended amount remaining at the end of each fiscal year, not to exceed $20,000, may be carried forward to the next fiscal year. Other expenses, including travel expenses or other reasonable and necessary expenses incurred in the furtherance and performance of legislative duties or in operation of the member's office or incident thereto, shall be provided in addition to the maximum salary authorized.

(c)  The secretary of the senate may order reimbursement for legislative expenses consistent with this resolution and the establishment by the Texas Ethics Commission of per diem rates.

(d)  Any member of the senate and the lieutenant governor are eligible to receive such reimbursement on application of the member or the lieutenant governor to the secretary of the senate.

(e)  On the application of a member of the senate or the lieutenant governor, the applicant shall be entitled to reimbursement for legislative expenses for each legislative day.

(f)  For purposes of this section, a legislative day includes each day of a regular or special session of the legislature, including any day the legislature is not in session for a period of four consecutive days or less, and all days the legislature is not in session if the senator or lieutenant governor attends a meeting of a joint, special, or legislative committee as evidenced by the official record of the body, and each day, limited to 12 days per month for non-chairs or 16 days per month for chairs and the lieutenant governor, the senator or the lieutenant governor, including those living within a 50-mile radius, is otherwise engaged in legislative business as evidenced by claims submitted to the chairman of the administration committee.

SECTION 9.  MEMBER'S EMPLOYEE LEAVE POLICY. (a)  An employee of a senator accrues vacation leave, compensatory leave, or sick leave in accordance with policies adopted by the senator consistent with the requirements of this section.

(b)  An employee may accrue vacation leave, compensatory leave, or sick leave only if the employee files a monthly time record with the senate human resources office. Time records are due not later than the 10th day of the following month.

(c)  Compensatory time must be used not later than the last day of the 24th month following the month in which the time was accrued.

(d)  An employee is not entitled to compensation for accrued but unused compensatory time.

SECTION 10.  DESIGNATION FOR ATTENDANCE AT MEETINGS AND FUNCTIONS. (a)  The lieutenant governor may appoint any member of the senate, the secretary of the senate, or any other senate employee to attend meetings of the National Conference of State Legislatures and other similar meetings. Necessary and actual expenses are authorized upon the approval of the chairman of the administration committee and the secretary of the senate.

(b)  The lieutenant governor may designate a member of the senate to represent the senate at ceremonies and ceremonial functions. The necessary expenses of the senator and necessary staff for this purpose shall be paid pursuant to a budget approved by the administration committee.

SECTION 11.  MEETINGS DURING INTERIM. (a)  Each of the standing committees and subcommittees of the senate of the 88th Legislature may continue to meet at such times and places during the interim as determined by such committees and subcommittees and to hold hearings, recommend legislation, and perform research on matters directed either by resolution, the lieutenant governor, or as determined by majority vote of each committee.

(b)  Each continuing committee and subcommittee shall continue to function under the rules adopted during the legislative session where applicable.

(c)  Expenses for the operation of these committees and subcommittees shall be paid pursuant to a budget prepared by each committee and approved by the administration committee.

(d)  The operating expenses of these committees shall be paid from the contingent expense fund of the senate, and committee members shall be reimbursed for their actual expenses incurred in carrying out the duties of the committees.

SECTION 12.  SENATE OFFICES. Members not returning for the 89th Legislature shall vacate their senate offices by December 1, 2024.

SECTION 13.  FURNISHING OF INFORMATION BY SENATE EMPLOYEE. An employee of the senate may not furnish any information to any person, firm, or corporation other than general information pertaining to the senate and routinely furnished to the public.

SECTION 14.  OUTSIDE EMPLOYMENT. An employee of the senate may not be employed by and receive compensation from any other person, firm, or corporation during the employee's senate employment without the permission of the employee's senate employer.

SECTION 15.  REMOVAL OF SENATE PROPERTY. The secretary of the senate is specifically directed not to permit the removal of any of the property of the senate from the senate chamber or the rooms of the senate except as authorized by the chairman of the administration committee.

SR 730 was read and was adopted by the following vote:  Yeas 31, Nays 0.

Senator Menéndez was recognized and introduced to the Senate his legislative staff including Victoria de Anda, Sebastian Gallegos, James Hallamek, Adrian Tristan, Hutch Hutchinson, and Pearl Cruz.

The Senate welcomed its guests.

Senator Hall offered the following resolution:

WHEREAS, It is a pleasure for the Texas Senate to honor a beloved and respected longtime staff member, Sushma Smith, by naming her the 2023 legislative recipient of the Betty King Public Service Award; and

WHEREAS, As senior counsel to Senator Carol Alvarado, Sushma handles the responsibilities of her position with the utmost diligence and professionalism, and she is well liked and admired by the legislators and by the many Capitol staff members with whom she has worked throughout her years of employment with the Texas Senate; and

WHEREAS, Sushma joined the Senate in 2007 and served in the roles of legislative analyst and general counsel to Senator Eliot Shapleigh for several years before serving as legislative director and chief of staff to Senator Jose R. Rodríguez for more than a decade; in 2021, she joined the staff of Senator Carol Alvarado and has served the office as chief of staff as well as in her current roles as senior counsel and as executive director of the Senate Democratic Caucus; and

WHEREAS, In her capacity as senior counsel, Sushma plays a major role in helping to guide legislative and policymaking decisions and provides her expertise to advise on a range of matters; she is highly regarded for her superior skill and insight, and her thorough understanding of the legislative process and policy issues have made her an invaluable asset to the senator's office; in addition, Sushma's service as executive director of the Senate Democratic Caucus has demonstrated her exemplary leadership, her strong work ethic, and her uncompromising commitment to upholding the values she espouses; and

WHEREAS, Sushma is noted for the kindness, intelligence, and professionalism with which she approaches her work as well as for the valuable guidance and mentorship she has graciously provided to so many colleagues and staff throughout her years of employment with the Senate; Sushma exemplifies the highest standards of service to the Texas Senate, and her dedication, integrity, and generous spirit are a source of inspiration to all who know and work with her; she is an exceptional Senate employee who is held in highest regard by legislators and by staff members throughout the Capitol, and the Texas Senate takes pride in honoring her with a Betty King Public Service Award; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 88th Legislature, hereby commend Sushma Smith on her outstanding service to the Texas Senate and extend to her congratulations on earning the 2023 Betty King Public Service Award; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for her as an expression of highest esteem from the Texas Senate.

SR 731 was read.

On motion of Senator Hall and by unanimous consent, the names of the Lieutenant Governor and Senators were added to the resolution as signers thereof.

On motion of Senator Hall, the resolution was adopted by a rising vote of the Senate.

Senator Hall, joined by Senators Alvarado, Blanco, and Menéndez, was recognized and introduced to the Senate Sushma Smith.

The Senate welcomed its guest.

Senator Hall offered the following resolution:

WHEREAS, It is with great pride that the Texas Senate honors one of its most loyal and respected staff members, Austin Osborn, by naming him the 2023 administrative recipient of the Betty King Public Service Award; and

WHEREAS, A longtime staff member of the Texas Senate and the currently serving sergeant-at-arms, Austin Osborn has faithfully served as a Senate employee for more than two decades; first employed as a messenger with the Sergeant-at-Arms' Office, Austin served as an administrative aide to the secretary of the Senate for several years before becoming Senate doorkeeper; he took on the additional role of assistant sergeant-at-arms in 2016 before beginning his service as sergeant-of-arms in 2021; he exemplifies the best in Senate service, and through his highly effective leadership, uncompromising work ethic, and encouraging attitude, he consistently brings out the best in those who serve with him and is a source of inspiration to others; and

WHEREAS, The responsibilities managed by the sergeant-at-arms are critical to the legislative process, and as an elected officer of the Texas Senate, Austin upholds the highest standards for professionalism, attentiveness, courtesy, and respect for tradition; in his role as sergeant-at-arms, he maintains order and decorum in the Senate Chamber and ensures the security of senators, staff, and members of the public during legislative sessions; in addition, he oversees his office's numerous employees, which include assistant sergeants, car guards, porters, and messengers; and

WHEREAS, Austin has consistently carried out his work with dedication and enthusiasm, and he is greatly respected and admired by members of the Senate and by Senate staff; he has a sincere appreciation for the importance of his position, and he is noted for the diligence and care with which he performs the duties of his role as well as for his warm and welcoming demeanor and his willingness to assist others in whatever way possible; and 

WHEREAS, Austin is beloved by his colleagues and is held in highest regard by legislators and by staff members throughout the Capitol; he is an indispensable asset to the Senate and is an integral part of maintaining the dignity, comportment, and respect befitting of the Senate Chamber and the Texas Legislature; he sets a standard for excellence in his devoted service to the Texas Senate, and he is most deserving of his selection for a Betty King Public Service Award; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 88th Legislature, hereby commend Austin Osborn on his invaluable service to the Texas Senate and extend to him congratulations on earning the 2023 Betty King Public Service Award; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for him as an expression of highest esteem from the Texas Senate.

SR 732 was read.

On motion of Senator Hall and by unanimous consent, the names of the Lieutenant Governor and Senators were added to the resolution as signers thereof.

On motion of Senator Hall, the resolution was adopted by a rising vote of the Senate.

Senator Hall, joined by Senators Whitmire, Eckhardt, Hancock, Kolkhorst, Johnson, Blanco, Bettencourt, West, Menéndez, Birdwell, and Hinojosa, was recognized and introduced to the Senate Austin Osborn.

The Senate welcomed its guest.

The Board of Managers of the House of Representatives appeared at the Bar of the Senate and presented articles of impeachment to the President and Members of the Senate.

BE IT RESOLVED by the House of Representatives of the State of Texas, That Warren Kenneth Paxton Jr., Attorney General of the State of Texas, is impeached and that the following articles of impeachment be exhibited to the Texas Senate:

ARTICLES OF IMPEACHMENT

Exhibited by the House of Representatives of the State of Texas in the name of itself and of all the people of the State of Texas against Warren Kenneth Paxton, Attorney General of the State of Texas, in maintenance and support of its impeachment against him.

ARTICLE I

(Disregard of Official Duty-

Protection of Charitable Organization)

While holding office as attorney general, Warren Kenneth Paxton violated the duties of his office by failing to act as public protector of charitable organizations as required by Chapter 123, Property Code.

Specifically, Paxton caused employees of his office to intervene in a lawsuit brought by the Roy F. & JoAnn Cole Mitte Foundation against several corporate entities controlled by Nate Paul. Paxton harmed the Mitte Foundation in an effort to benefit Paul.

ARTICLE II

(Disregard of Official Duty-Abuse of the Opinion Process)

While holding office as attorney general, Warren Kenneth Paxton misused his official power to issue written legal opinions under Subchapter C, Chapter 402, Government Code.

Specifically, Paxton caused employees of his office to prepare an opinion in an attempt to avoid the impending foreclosure sales of properties belonging to Nate Paul or business entities controlled by Paul. Paxton concealed his actions by soliciting the chair of a senate committee to serve as straw requestor. Furthermore, Paxton directed employees of his office to reverse their legal conclusion for the benefit of Paul.

ARTICLE III

(Disregard of Official Duty-Abuse of the Open Records Process)

While holding office as attorney general, Warren Kenneth Paxton misused his official power to administer the public information law (Chapter 552, Government Code).

Specifically, Paxton directed employees of his office to act contrary to law by refusing to render a proper decision relating to a public information request for records held by the Department of Public Safety and by issuing a decision involving another public information request that was contrary to law and applicable legal precedent.

ARTICLE IV

(Disregard of Official Duty-Misuse of Official Information)

While holding office as attorney general, Warren Kenneth Paxton misused his official power to administer the public information law (Chapter 552, Government Code).

Specifically, Paxton improperly obtained access to information held by his office that had not been publicly disclosed for the purpose of providing the information to the benefit of Nate Paul.

ARTICLE V

(Disregard of Official Duty-Engagement of Cammack)

While holding office as attorney general, Warren Kenneth Paxton misused his official powers by violating the laws governing the appointment of prosecuting attorneys pro tem.

Specifically, Paxton engaged Brandon Cammack, a licensed attorney, to conduct an investigation into a baseless complaint, during which Cammack issued more than 30 grand jury subpoenas, in an effort to benefit Nate Paul or Paul's business entities.

ARTICLE VI

(Disregard of Official Duty-Termination of Whistleblowers)

While holding office as attorney general, Warren Kenneth Paxton violated the duties of his office by terminating and taking adverse personnel action against employees of his office in violation of this state's whistleblower law (Chapter 554, Government Code).

Specifically, Paxton terminated employees of his office who made good faith reports of his unlawful actions to law enforcement authorities. Paxton terminated the employees without good cause or due process and in retaliation for reporting his illegal acts and improper conduct. Furthermore, Paxton engaged in a public and private campaign to impugn the employees' professional reputations or prejudice their future employment.

ARTICLE VII

(Misapplication of Public Resources-

Whistleblower Investigation and Report)

While holding office as attorney general, Warren Kenneth Paxton misused public resources entrusted to him.

Specifically, Paxton directed employees of his office to conduct a sham investigation into whistleblower complaints made by employees whom Paxton had terminated and to create and publish a lengthy written report containing false or misleading statements in Paxton's defense.

ARTICLE VIII

(Disregard of Official Duty-Settlement Agreement)

While holding office as attorney general, Warren Kenneth Paxton misused his official powers by concealing his wrongful acts in connection with whistleblower complaints made by employees whom Paxton had terminated.

Specifically, Paxton entered into a settlement agreement with the whistleblowers that provides for payment of the settlement from public funds. The settlement agreement stayed the wrongful termination suit and conspicuously delayed the discovery of facts and testimony at trial, to Paxton's advantage, which deprived the electorate of its opportunity to make an informed decision when voting for attorney general.

ARTICLE IX

(Constitutional Bribery-Paul's Employment of Mistress)

While holding office as attorney general, Warren Kenneth Paxton engaged in bribery in violation of Section 41, Article XVI, Texas Constitution.

Specifically, Paxton benefited from Nate Paul's employment of a woman with whom Paxton was having an extramarital affair. Paul received favorable legal assistance from, or specialized access to, the office of the attorney general.

ARTICLE X

(Constitutional Bribery-

Paul's Providing Renovations to Paxton Home)

While holding office as attorney general, Warren Kenneth Paxton engaged in bribery in violation of Section 41, Article XVI, Texas Constitution.

Specifically, Paxton benefited from Nate Paul providing renovations to Paxton's home. Paul received favorable legal assistance from, or specialized access to, the office of the attorney general.

ARTICLE XI

(Obstruction of Justice-Abuse of Judicial Process)

While holding office as attorney general, Warren Kenneth Paxton abused the judicial process to thwart justice.

After Paxton was elected attorney general, Paxton was indicted by a Collin County grand jury for engaging in fraud or fraudulent practices in violation of The Securities Act (Title 12, Government Code). Paxton then concealed the facts underlying his criminal charges from voters by causing protracted delay of the trial, which deprived the electorate of its opportunity to make an informed decision when voting for attorney general.

ARTICLE XII

(Obstruction of Justice-Abuse of Judicial Process)

While holding office as attorney general, Warren Kenneth Paxton abused the judicial process to thwart justice.

Specifically, Paxton benefited from the filing of a lawsuit by Jeff Blackard, a donor to Paxton's campaign, that interfered with or disrupted payment of the prosecutors in a criminal securities fraud case against Paxton. Blackard's actions caused protracted delay in the criminal case against Paxton, including the delay of discovery of facts and testimony at trial, to Paxton's advantage, which deprived the electorate of its opportunity to make an informed decision when voting for attorney general.

ARTICLE XIII

(False Statements in Official Records-

State Securities Board Investigation)

While holding office as attorney general, and prior to, Warren Kenneth Paxton made false statements in official records to mislead both the public and public officials.

Specifically, Paxton made false statements to the State Securities Board in connection with its investigation of his failure to register with the board as required by law.

ARTICLE XIV

(False Statements in Official Records-

Personal Financial Statements)

While holding office as attorney general, and prior to, Warren Kenneth Paxton made misrepresentations or false or misleading statements in official filings to mislead both the public and public officials.

Specifically, Paxton failed to fully and accurately disclose his financial interests in his personal financial statements required by law to be filed with the Texas Ethics Commission in furtherance of the acts described in one or more articles.

ARTICLE XV

(False Statements in Official Records-

Whistleblower Response Report)

While holding office as attorney general, Warren Kenneth Paxton made false or misleading statements in official records to mislead both the public and public officials.

Specifically, Paxton made or caused to be made multiple false or misleading statements in the lengthy written report issued by his office in response to whistleblower allegations.

ARTICLE XVI

(Conspiracy and Attempted Conspiracy)

While holding office as attorney general, Warren Kenneth Paxton acted with others to conspire, or attempt to conspire, to commit acts described in one or more articles.

ARTICLE XVII

(Misappropriation of Public Resources)

While holding office as attorney general, Warren Kenneth Paxton misused his official powers by causing employees of his office to perform services for his benefit and the benefit of others.

ARTICLE XVIII

(Dereliction of Duty)

While holding office as attorney general, Warren Kenneth Paxton violated the Texas Constitution, his oaths of office, statutes, and public policy against public officials acting contrary to the public interest by engaging in acts described in one or more articles.

ARTICLE XIX

(Unfitness for Office)

While holding office as attorney general, Warren Kenneth Paxton engaged in misconduct, private or public, of such character as to indicate his unfitness for office, as shown by the acts described in one or more articles.

ARTICLE XX

(Abuse of Public Trust)

While holding office as attorney general, Warren Kenneth Paxton used, misused, or failed to use his official powers in a manner calculated to subvert the lawful operation of the government of the State of Texas and obstruct the fair and impartial administration of justice, thereby bringing the Office of Attorney General into scandal and disrepute to the prejudice of public confidence in the government of this State, as shown by the acts described in one or more articles.

PRAYER

Accordingly, the House of Representatives of the State of Texas, reserving to itself the prerogative of presenting at any future date further articles of impeachment against Warren Kenneth Paxton; of replying to any answer he makes to these articles; and of offering proof to sustain each of the above articles and to any other articles which may be preferred, requests that Warren Kenneth Paxton be called upon to answer these articles of impeachment in the Texas Senate, and that in those proceedings the examinations, trials, and judgments be conducted and issued in accordance with law and justice.

Murr

A. Johnson of Harris

Geren

Longoria

Spiller

/s/Dade Phelan

Speaker of the House     

I certify that H.R. No. 2377 was adopted by the House on May 27, 2023, by the following vote:  Yeas 121, Nays 23, 2 present, not voting.

/s/Stephen Brown

Chief Clerk of the House   

The President at 4:32 p.m. announced the Senate would stand At Ease subject to the call of the Chair.

The President at 5:10 p.m. called the Senate to order as In Legislative Session.

The President announced the signing of the following enrolled bills and resolutions in the presence of the Senate after the captions had been read:

SB 10, SB 12, SB 17, SB 22, SB 28, SB 29, SB 30 (Signed subject to Sec. 49a, Art. III, Texas Constitution), SB 640, SB 1445, SB 1585, SB 1677, SB 1699, SB 1727, SB 1893, SB 1933, SB 2315, SB 2627, SCR 22, SJR 93.

SB 1725, SCR 61, SCR 62, SJR 75.

HCR 120, HCR 125.

HB 19, HB 64, HB 139, HB 198, HB 409, HB 422, HB 461, HB 527, HB 611, HB 886, HB 923, HB 969, HB 1133, HB 1163, HB 1357, HB 1597, HB 1598, HB 1649, HB 1673, HB 1710, HB 1730, HB 1759, HB 1766, HB 1903, HB 2060, HB 2187, HB 2201, HB 2259, HB 2333, HB 2488, HB 2512, HB 2555, HB 2620, HB 2626, HB 2715, HB 2741, HB 2816, HB 2839, HB 2850, HB 2878, HB 2900, HB 2975, HB 3097, HB 3159, HB 3191, HB 3207, HB 3232, HB 3235, HB 3257, HB 3335, HB 3419, HB 3469, HB 3556, HB 3603, HB 3908, HB 3981, HB 4062, HB 4106, HB 4415, HB 4456, HB 4538, HB 4550, HB 4645, HB 4660, HB 4714, HB 4758, HB 5066, HB 5178, HB 5307, HB 5309, HB 5312, HB 5316, HB 5322, HB 5332, HB 5333, HB 5334, HB 5337, HB 5340, HB 5372, HB 5373, HB 5377, HB 5386, HB 5389, HB 5414, HB 5415, HCR 26.

HB 33, HB 44, HB 55, HB 108, HB 456, HB 711, HB 718, HB 784, HB 1009, HB 1087, HB 1181, HB 1182, HB 1211, HB 1228, HB 1287, HB 1361, HB 1515, HB 1540, HB 1558, HB 1590, HB 1707, HB 1833, HB 1883, HB 2071, HB 2129, HB 2138, HB 2190, HB 2263, HB 2323, HB 2660, HB 2706, HB 2847, HB 3009, HB 3058, HB 3161, HB 3265, HB 3286, HB 3359, HB 3424, HB 3462, HB 3506, HB 3553, HB 3579, HB 3727, HB 3810, HB 3837, HB 4087, HB 4169, HB 4183, HB 4256, HB 4363, HB 4628, HB 4704, HB 4885, HB 5135, HB 5336, HB 5398, HCR 112, HCR 113, HCR 114, HCR 115, HCR 118, HCR 121, HCR 122, HJR 2.

HB 1 (Signed subject to Sec. 49a, Art. III, Texas Constitution), HB 4041 (Signed subject to Sec. 49a, Art. III, Texas Constitution).

HB 3, HB 4, HB 5, HB 9, HB 12, HB 17, HB 18, HB 114, HB 357, HB 473, HB 621, HB 915, HB 1058, HB 1243, HB 1277, HB 1500, HB 1595, HB 1605, HB 1620, HB 1848, HB 1998, HB 2026, HB 2121, HB 2484, HB 2559, HB 2727, HB 2729, HB 2815, HB 3033, HB 3059, HB 3297, HB 3372, HB 3440, HB 3447, HB 3453, HB 3456, HB 3461, HB 3466, HB 3474, HB 3550, HB 3672, HB 3697, HB 3699, HB 4123, HB 4227, HB 4443, HB 4500, HB 4635, HB 4696, HB 4759, HB 4888, HB 4990, HB 5012, HB 5105, HB 5180, HB 5183, HB 5344, HB 5405, HCR 123, HCR 126, HJR 3, HJR 125.

Senator Whitmire offered the following resolution:

WHEREAS, It will be necessary for the Senate of Texas to adopt rules of procedure to govern its proceedings in the trial of Warren Kenneth Paxton Jr., Attorney General, upon articles of impeachment presented by the House of Representatives; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the Senate of the State of Texas, That a special committee of seven senators be appointed by the President to prepare and present to a caucus of the Senate to be held on Tuesday, June 20, 2023, such rules of procedure for consideration by the Senate; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That notwithstanding senate rules governing committee procedures, the committee shall meet subject to the call of the chair and is authorized to meet in closed session for purposes of deliberation; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That the President be authorized to issue a proclamation setting a date and time not later than Monday, August 28, 2023, for the Senate to convene as a Court of Impeachment; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That the President be authorized to notify all members of the Senate, the Governor, the Board of Managers selected by the House of Representatives, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and Warren Kenneth Paxton of such date and time set for the Senate to convene as a Court of Impeachment.

SR 735 was read and was adopted by the following vote:  Yeas 31, Nays 0.

The President announced the appointment of the following committee: Birdwell, Chair; Hinojosa, Vice-chair; Creighton, Flores, Huffman, King, West.

Senator Whitmire offered the following Motion In Writing:

Mr. President:

I move that all the remarks made during the Senate proceedings for election of the President Pro Tempore Ad Interim be reduced to writing and placed in the journal.

WHITMIRE

The Motion In Writing was read and prevailed without objection.

Senator Hughes offered the following resolutions:

SR 728, In memory of Gloria Morris Ashford of Dallas.

The resolution was read.

SR 729, In memory of Flora Loretta Solomon Reves.

The resolution was read.

On motion of Senator Hughes, SR 728 and SR 729 were adopted by a rising vote of the Senate.

In honor of the memory of Gloria Morris Ashford and Flora Loretta Solomon Reves, the text of the resolutions will be printed in the Senate Journal upon adjournment of this legislative day.

On motion of Senator Sparks and by unanimous consent, the remarks by Senator Hughes regarding SR 728 and SR 729 were ordered reduced to writing and printed in the Senate Journal as follows:

Thank you, Mr. President. Members, as we're all aware, our brothers Royce and Brian lost their mothers within two weeks of each other in the middle of the legislative session. And we were with them, each of us, and prayed with them and encouraged them. And it seemed like this would be an appropriate time to formally, and as a body, recognize their loss and our loss. At the service for Brian's mother, and forgive me for using our first names on such a family matter like this, but at the service for Brian's mother, learned a lot about her. And I'll mention one more thing, Brian and his brother, the judge, took part in, we got an insight into her raising those boys and what she did for them and what she endured and how she sacrificed for them. And Brian's brother, the judge, even sang a song that she had written. Don't worry, I won't try it here, but it was a special time, a special time for a special lady who raised wonderful sons, one of whom we're especially thankful for. And Senate Resolution 729 is authored by every Member of the Senate in her honor except Senator Birdwell. We didn't ask you to sign onto hers, but every one of us authored that resolution in her memory and her honor and your honor, and we're thankful for her.

And then, Senator West, we were able to spend some time with you at that homegoing service for your mother, learned so much about her. What a fighter, what an organizer, what a fighter for justice she was. We know where you got it, but we saw, we saw a lot of that, saw pictures of her campaigning for you and got to see your family participate in that and what a special time that was. What a special lady. I'm reminded, when I think of both of these ladies and what our colleagues have been through losing them, over in Exodus, chapter 3, verse 7, the Lord speaking about His people when they're having a, going through unspeakable times. He says this, He says, I know their sorrows, I know their sorrows. And I know that's been especially real to each one of our colleagues going through this time. And so, I'm just going to share one thing as I go to my seat, and Senator West, the resolution honoring your mother was signed by all of us except for you, in your honor and her memory. I'll say one thing that was common, a beautiful theme at both of those services, they talked about this wonderful truth, this wonderful truth of God's love for us, that even though we're sinners and our sin separates us from God, He loved us so much that Jesus Christ, His Son, God Himself, humbled Himself, came to this Earth, lived a beautiful life, and then gave His life on the cross and rose again on the third day. And that promise of His resurrection is one that we can cling to with complete faith, knowing that He conquered death and He conquered sin and He conquered the grave. And when we put our faith in Him, we can know we have a home with Him as these dear ladies did. And so, we thank the Lord for their lives and for the wonderful sons they raised. And as we move passage, we'll just remember these words from the great apostle, these words from the Holy Spirit coming to us through the Apostle Paul. He said this, For I am persuaded that neither death nor life nor angels nor principalities nor powers nor things present nor things to come nor height nor depth nor any other creature shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus, our Lord. We love each of you men, we're all a family here, and we grieve with you, and we're so thankful for these strong, wonderful women that raised these wonderful sons. Mr. President, I move adoption of the resolutions.

The following letter was received by the Secretary of the Senate:

Judith Zaffirini

State Senator, District 21

President Pro Tempore, 1997

May 29, 2023

Patsy Spaw

Secretary of the Senate

P.O. Box 12068

Austin, TX 78711

Dear Secretary Spaw:

This is to request that my name be removed as a co-sponsor of Senate Bill 346 by Senator Mayes Middleton. My intention was to sponsor bill HB 436, also by Middleton.

My prayer is that the Lord will bless you and always inspire you to continue to excel.

Very truly yours,

/s/Judith Zaffirini

The following resolutions were adopted by the Senate:

SR 733 by Hinojosa, In memory of Norberto "Beto" Salinas.

SR 734 by LaMantia, Recognizing Rio Grande Valley high school students who completed the Together for a Better Tomorrow Youth Citizen Scientist Program.

HCR 120 (Sparks), Commemorating the 50th anniversary of The University of Texas Permian Basin on the occasion of UTPB Day at the State Capitol on May 3, 2023.

HCR 125 (Kolkhorst), Congratulating Dr. Jeff P. Ripley on his retirement as associate director for county operations at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.

SR 678 by Perry, Alvarado, Bettencourt, Birdwell, Blanco, Campbell, Creighton, Flores, Hall, Hancock, Hinojosa, Huffman, Hughes, King, Kolkhorst, LaMantia, Middleton, Miles, Nichols, Parker, Paxton, Schwertner, Sparks, Springer, West, Whitmire, and Zaffirini, Requesting Congress to reimburse the State of Texas for funds used or will be used to meet federal obligations to secure the southern border.

On motion of Senator Whitmire, the Senate of the 88th Legislature, Regular Session, at 6:39 p.m. agreed to adjourn sine die, in memory of Nancy Fleming, Gloria Morris Ashford, and Flora Loretta Solomon Reves.

The President announced the signing of the following enrolled bill in the presence of the Senate after the caption had been read:  HB 30.

In accordance with a previously adopted motion, the Senate of the 88th Legislature, Regular Session, adjourned sine die, in memory of Nancy Fleming, Gloria Morris Ashford, and Flora Loretta Solomon Reves.

SB 10, SB 12, SB 17, SB 22, SB 28, SB 29, SB 30, SB 640, SB 1445, SB 1699, SB 1725, SB 1727, SB 1893, SB 2315, SB 2627, SCR 61, SCR 62, SJR 75, SR 678, SR 715, SR 728, SR 729, SR 730, SR 731, SR 732, SR 733, SR 734, SR 735

SB 10, SB 12, SB 15, SB 17, SB 18, SB 22, SB 24, SB 25, SB 26, SB 28, SB 29, SB 55, SB 61, SB 133, SB 158, SB 186, SB 189, SB 200, SB 222, SB 232, SB 315, SB 317, SB 322, SB 335, SB 336, SB 338, SB 365, SB 379, SB 386, SB 401, SB 402, SB 409, SB 422, SB 427, SB 459, SB 469, SB 471, SB 477, SB 498, SB 532, SB 533, SB 544, SB 545, SB 565, SB 627, SB 629, SB 640, SB 643, SB 667, SB 681, SB 694, SB 718, SB 719, SB 763, SB 773, SB 785, SB 796, SB 812, SB 813, SB 833, SB 893, SB 924, SB 947, SB 956, SB 987, SB 991, SB 997, SB 999, SB 1001, SB 1015, SB 1040, SB 1051, SB 1056, SB 1057, SB 1070, SB 1080, SB 1094, SB 1098, SB 1131, SB 1136, SB 1146, SB 1188, SB 1192, SB 1236, SB 1242, SB 1289, SB 1290, SB 1308, SB 1327, SB 1342, SB 1367, SB 1376, SB 1379, SB 1397, SB 1399, SB 1402, SB 1404, SB 1414, SB 1431, SB 1445, SB 1467, SB 1500, SB 1516, SB 1517, SB 1518, SB 1520, SB 1525, SB 1526, SB 1565, SB 1568, SB 1585, SB 1606, SB 1624, SB 1647, SB 1659, SB 1661, SB 1668, SB 1670, SB 1677, SB 1699, SB 1712, SB 1717, SB 1720, SB 1725, SB 1727, SB 1746, SB 1750, SB 1854, SB 1893, SB 1900, SB 1916, SB 1929, SB 1930, SB 1933, SB 1979, SB 1998, SB 1999, SB 2008, SB 2011, SB 2013, SB 2035, SB 2052, SB 2091, SB 2105, SB 2120, SB 2133, SB 2192, SB 2200, SB 2220, SB 2248, SB 2260, SB 2277, SB 2292, SB 2314, SB 2315, SB 2325, SB 2350, SB 2370, SB 2376, SB 2406, SB 2429, SB 2440, SB 2453, SB 2474, SB 2476, SB 2479, SB 2588, SB 2595, SB 2597, SB 2598, SB 2601, SB 2604, SB 2605, SB 2613, SB 2616, SB 2620, SB 2627, SCR 4, SCR 8, SCR 22, SCR 26, SCR 46, SCR 50, SCR 51, SCR 52, SCR 53, SCR 54

SB 62, SB 224, SB 478, SB 490, SB 622, SB 745, SB 820, SB 855, SB 876, SB 895, SB 922, SB 989, SB 1054, SB 1145, SB 1213, SB 1237, SB 1300, SB 1403, SB 1429, SB 1444, SB 1499, SB 1602, SB 1648, SB 1768, SB 2032, SB 2173

SB 30

SCR 61, SCR 62, SJR 75, SJR 93

SB 14, SB 29, SB 246, SB 500, SB 538, SB 594, SB 728, SB 736, SB 786, SB 798, SB 801, SB 821, SB 849, SB 1076, SB 1089, SB 1133, SB 1179, SB 1238, SB 1250, SB 1340, SB 1361, SB 1364, SB 1420, SB 1424, SB 1447, SB 1860, SB 1932, SB 2102, SB 2186, SB 2289, SB 2538

SB 1794, SB 2592

SB 30

SB 22

SB 28, SB 30, SB 1045, SB 1402, SB 1653, SB 1900, SB 1929, SB 2013, SB 2627, SCR 2

SB 2035

SB 10, SB 1893

SB 467

SB 1080, SB 1998, SB 2493

SB 247, SB 267, SB 315, SB 348, SB 361, SB 485, SB 526, SB 1431, SB 1568, SB 1712, SB 1979, SB 2052, SB 2260, SB 2379, SB 2453, SB 2597, SB 2598, SB 2604, SB 2605, SB 2613, SB 2616

SB 17, SB 18, SB 867

SB 498, SB 796, SB 813, SB 1393, SB 1399, SB 2016, SB 2275

SB 12, SB 15, SB 24, SB 25, SB 26, SB 37, SB 48, SB 52, SB 55, SB 61, SB 129, SB 133, SB 135, SB 158, SB 182, SB 186, SB 189, SB 222, SB 232, SB 252, SB 280, SB 317, SB 323, SB 336, SB 365, SB 372, SB 374, SB 379, SB 386, SB 402, SB 409, SB 414, SB 422, SB 427, SB 459, SB 469, SB 471, SB 477, SB 493, SB 496, SB 532, SB 533, SB 539, SB 540, SB 544, SB 545, SB 565, SB 576, SB 599, SB 614, SB 621, SB 629, SB 640, SB 643, SB 646, SB 658, SB 667, SB 681, SB 691, SB 694, SB 718, SB 719, SB 739, SB 763, SB 773, SB 780, SB 833, SB 893, SB 904, SB 924, SB 944, SB 947, SB 956, SB 975, SB 983, SB 991, SB 994, SB 997, SB 998, SB 999, SB 1001, SB 1015, SB 1040, SB 1070, SB 1094, SB 1098, SB 1122, SB 1131, SB 1136, SB 1146, SB 1188, SB 1192, SB 1236, SB 1242, SB 1245, SB 1246, SB 1289, SB 1290, SB 1308, SB 1327, SB 1342, SB 1346, SB 1376, SB 1379, SB 1397, SB 1414, SB 1445, SB 1471, SB 1500, SB 1516, SB 1517, SB 1518, SB 1520, SB 1525, SB 1526, SB 1551, SB 1565, SB 1585, SB 1599, SB 1606, SB 1624, SB 1647, SB 1659, SB 1661, SB 1670, SB 1677, SB 1699, SB 1710, SB 1717, SB 1720, SB 1725, SB 1727, SB 1746, SB 1750, SB 1802, SB 1849, SB 1854, SB 1930, SB 1933, SB 1999, SB 2008, SB 2011, SB 2017, SB 2040, SB 2091, SB 2105, SB 2119, SB 2120, SB 2133, SB 2139, SB 2150, SB 2200, SB 2304, SB 2310, SB 2314, SB 2315, SB 2325, SB 2333, SB 2370, SB 2376, SB 2406, SB 2429, SB 2440, SB 2476, SB 2479, SB 2601, SB 2612, SB 2620, SCR 4, SCR 8, SCR 13, SCR 22, SCR 26, SCR 42, SCR 46, SCR 50, SCR 51, SCR 52, SCR 53, SCR 54

SB 322, SB 338, SB 375, SB 401, SB 627, SB 785, SB 812, SB 1056, SB 1057, SB 1745, SB 2106, SB 2220, SB 2350, SB 2588, SB 2595

SB 200, SB 261, SB 335, SB 987, SB 1051, SB 1367, SB 1404, SB 1439, SB 1467, SB 1614, SB 1668, SB 1916, SB 2010, SB 2192, SB 2248, SB 2269, SB 2277, SB 2292, SB 2399, SB 2474

The following Veto Proclamations by the Governor were filed in the Office of the Secretary of State:

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 2035 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

Senate Bill 2035 has too many loopholes. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 13th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 467 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

Senate Bill No. 467 would impose a harsher sentence for tampering with a gas pump than for damaging the electric grid or cutting a livestock fence. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 14th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 1080 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While creating a mitigation plan for a single groundwater conservation district is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 15th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 1998 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

Senate Bill No. 1998 requires data reporting on property taxes, but does nothing to cut property taxes. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 15th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 2493 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While updating our laws about landlord-tenant relations is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 15th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 247 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 247 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 267 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 267 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 315 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 315 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 348 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 348 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 361 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 361 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 485 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 485 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 526 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 526 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 1431 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 1431 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 1568 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 1568 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 1712 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 1712 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 1979 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 1979 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 2052 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

Increasing fees may be important in certain circumstances, but it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 2260 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

This bill purports to repeal the requirement for Adult Protective Services supervisors to review cases in which recidivism is a factor, but it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 2379 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 2379 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 2453 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 2453 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 2597 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 2597 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 2598 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 2598 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 2604 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 2604 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 2605 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 2605 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 2613 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 2613 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 2616 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 2616 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 498 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

Senate Bill No. 498 conflicts with House Bill No. 4553, which I have already signed into law. To avoid uncertainty, I am vetoing Senate Bill No. 498.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 796 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

Surplus lines insurance is a product for sophisticated parties who know how to bargain over the terms of an arbitration agreement. Senate Bill No. 796's interference with freedom of contract in this market could inadvertently increase premiums and drive out insurers who want to do business in Texas.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 813 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

Senate Bill No. 813 would add unnecessary bureaucratic duties to what is already required by Texas law. Our goal should be to eliminate bureaucracy, not add to it.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 1393 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

The FAIR Plan Association was established in 2005 as an insurer of last resort for owners of residential property in underserved markets. Senate Bill No. 1393 would fundamentally change the Association's purpose by making certain homeowners eligible for subsidized FAIR polices even though insurance is available to them on the traditional market. I look forward to working with the bill authors on ways to improve this legislation.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 1399 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

Senate Bill No. 1399 appears to add more bureaucracy and cost.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 2016 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

Removing unnecessary barriers that prevent capable Texans from getting to work has been a priority of mine since I first took office. Senate Bill No. 2016 would impose an unnecessary occupational-licensing limitation that hurts workers and consumers, while straining the economic engine of Texas. A dietitian should not be required to obtain a master's degree to become registered or licensed by the State of Texas.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 2275 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

Senate Bill No. 2275 calls out a sloppy subsection in the 1939 Act that lets the Texas Supreme Court write procedural rules for the judicial branch. Senator Hughes is right to ring the alarm about this statutory text, thoughtful lawyer that he is. To avoid unintended consequences within our courts, however, the offending subsection should be rewritten rather than repealed. Next session, the three branches of government should collaborate on new-and-improved language that I can sign into law.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 16th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 200 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 200 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 18th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 261 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 261 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 18th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 335 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 335 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 18th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 987 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 987 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 18th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 1051 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 1051 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 18th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 1367 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 1367 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 18th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 1404 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 1404 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 18th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 1439 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 1439 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 18th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 1467 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 1467 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 18th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 1614 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 1614 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 18th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 1668 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 1668 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 18th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 1916 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 1916 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 18th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 2010 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 2010 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 18th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 2192 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 2192 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 18th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 2248 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 2248 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 18th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 2269 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 2269 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 18th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 2277 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 2277 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 18th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 2292 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 2292 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 18th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 2399 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 2399 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 18th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

PROCLAMATION

BY THE

GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF TEXAS

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME:

Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto Senate Bill No. 2474 as passed by the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:

While Senate Bill No. 2474 is important, it is simply not as important as cutting property taxes. At this time, the legislature must concentrate on delivering property tax cuts to Texans. This bill can be reconsidered at a future special session only after property tax relief is passed.

Since the Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 18th day of June, 2023.

(Seal)

/s/Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:

/s/Jane Nelson

Secretary of State

WHEREAS, Countless lives were touched by the kindness and generosity of Gloria Morris Ashford of Dallas, who passed away on March 25, 2023, at the age of 92; and

WHEREAS, The daughter of Samuel and Evelyn Morris, Gloria Ashford was born on October 11, 1930, in Los Angeles and grew up sharing in the companionship of a sister, Eleanor; raised in Annapolis, Maryland, she graduated from the Anne Arundel County Public School System and went on to earn a degree in nursing; devoted to helping others, she enjoyed a rewarding career as a nurse and retired from the Veterans Administration Hospital in Dallas after more than 20 years of dedicated service; she was also a loyal and committed union representative; and

WHEREAS, Valuing family above all else, Mrs. Ashford raised four children, Willis, Royce, Zina, and Morris, the latter of whom preceded her in death; with the passing years, she had the privilege of seeing her family grow to include 15 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and 8 great-great-grandchildren; and

WHEREAS, Admired for her warm and caring nature and radiant smile, Gloria Ashford brightened the world for all who knew her, and they will forever hold her close in their hearts; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the 88th Texas Legislature hereby pay tribute to the memory of Gloria Morris Ashford and extend heartfelt sympathy to the members of her family: to her children, Willis Kevin West, State Senator Royce Barry West, and Zina Yvetté Ashford; to her grandchildren, Shaniqua, Sammiel, Stephond, Rolando, Roddrick, and Brandon West, Brett Manning, Tara West Franklin, Royce Barry West II, Sessalli, Simone, and Siara Obasuyi, and Fatai Obasuyi II; to her great-grandchildren, Autavia, Natashia, Ryan, Riley, Rose, Roman, and Remington West, T'ria Hurd, Stephond West II, Tiara Franklin, Royce West III, and Brett Manning Jr.; to her great-great-grandchildren, Kaden, Kimora, Kameron, Giovanni, Gianna, Genesis, Nehemiah, and Ni'Ari; and to her other relatives and friends; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for her family and that when the Texas Senate adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Gloria Ashford.

WHEREAS, A full and productive life drew to a close with the passing of Flora Loretta Solomon Reves on March 14, 2023, at the age of 89; and

WHEREAS, The daughter of James Elmer Solomon and Ellar Alda Bertha Harbison Solomon, the former Loretta Solomon was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, on March 11, 1934; she grew up with a brother, James, and a sister, Judy; after graduating from Graham High School, she went on to earn both her bachelor's degree and master's degree in education from the University of North Texas; over the course of a career that spanned nearly four decades, she taught English, literature, and journalism to elementary, high school, and college students; and

WHEREAS, In 1965, she exchanged the vows of matrimony with Orlandis Prentes "Patrick" Reves, and the couple enjoyed traveling the world together; Mrs. Reves taught English and delivered Gideon Bibles in China, studied art in Rome, and walked the halls of the University of Cambridge in England; among other adventures, she was chased by monkeys in India and mistakenly deported from Brazil to Argentina; she and her husband shared a fulfilling relationship of 30 years until his passing; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Reves was the devoted mother of two sons, Brian and James, and through the years, she knew the joy of welcoming three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren into her treasured family; she was a woman of strong faith and a longtime member of Sar Shalom/Prince of Peace, a Messianic Jewish congregation in Arlington; and

WHEREAS, Although Loretta Reves will be deeply missed, she has left her loved ones with a wealth of memories that they will forever treasure; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the 88th Texas Legislature hereby pay tribute to the memory of Flora Loretta Solomon Reves and extend sincere condolences to the members of her family: to her sons, Judge James Wade Birdwell and his wife, Elizabeth, and State Senator Brian Douglas Birdwell and his wife, Mel; to her grandchildren, Nicholas, Alexandra and her husband, Zachary, and Matthew and his wife, Ann Marie; to her great-grandchildren, Elijah and Lily; to her sister, Judy Solomon Brown; to her niece, Deborah Vasterling, and her son, Jonathan; and to her other relatives and friends; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for her family and that when the Texas Senate adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Loretta Reves.