Texas Born-Alive Infant Protection Act, Student Loan Repayment Assistance for Peace Officers and Targeted Property Tax Relief

HB 16 – Texas Born-Alive Infant Protection Act 

This week the Texas House passed an important bill that protects infants who survive abortion procedures, ensuring they receive the same care given to any other child born in a hospital. HB 16 creates causes of action for the surviving child or their parent / legal guardian to pursue against a physician who fails to provide appropriate medical treatment to the child. It creates a similar cause of action for the Texas Attorney General to pursue against the physician on behalf of the state. Along with outlining strong protections to ensure the women who seek the abortion are shielded from liability in accordance with state law, it establishes a reporting mechanism so a person who has knowledge of a physician’s failure to provide appropriate medical care can be reported to the Office of the Attorney General. HB 16 is a strong stance to defend life in Texas.

HB 1313 – Targeted Property Tax Relief 

This week I laid out HB 1313 in the House Committee on Ways & Means. HB 1313 is one of several bills I have filed that would provide targeted tax relief for Texans and is a priority issue for me. HB 1313 increases the standard of evidence an appraiser must present in order to increase the appraisal value of a property the tax year following a successful protest. This change will go a very long way in creating more transparency in our system and saving taxpayers’ valuable time.

To watch the bill lay out, click on the below image. 

HB 14 – Student Loan Repayment Assistance for Peace Officers

I was proud to Joint Author and support HB 14 which creates a student loan repayment assistance program for future peace officers. Texas is facing a critical shortage of officers putting everyone at risk. I served 15 years with the Fort Worth P.D. and was recruited by a college assistance program.  Then, as it is again today, it was tough to find people willing to serve.  Assisting with student loans will attract more officers and support the men and women that put their lives on the line to protect our communities each day. I am proud to continue to back the blue and ensure our best and brightest have the opportunity to become peace officers and provide for their families.