The pace continues to build in Austin as this week saw continued bill filing and the assignment of committees in the House.

I am pleased to announce that I have been appointed to serve as the Vice Chairman of the House Energy Resources Committee as well as a member of the Transportation Committee and the House Administration Committee.

The Energy Committee has jurisdiction over the production and development of oil and gas resources; the leasing and regulation of mineral rights under public lands; mining; developing alternative energy sources; and increasing energy efficiency throughout the state.  The committee also oversees the Railroad Commission, the Texas Energy Coordination Council and the State Energy Conservation Office.

The Transportation Committee has jurisdiction over the Texas highway and roadway system, the licensing of motor vehicles, regulation and control of traffic on the state highway system, railroads, airports and waterways, as well as overseeing the Department of Transportation and the Department of Motor Vehicles. 

These committee appointments will allow East Texas to have a voice in the debate over many important state-wide issues, including long-term transportation funding and energy production and regulation.  Many of these matters will affect important projects for East Texas, the continued development of the I-69 corridor among them.

This week I continued filing legislation, including a bill that would toughen penalties for individuals convicted of child pornography offenses.  We have seen too many cases of our children falling victim to sexual predators, and I am determined to provide law enforcement with every tool possible to protect our children. 

I also filed a bill that would help local governments finance the use of natural gas vehicles.  This bill will help our communities lower their energy costs and save tax dollars, while taking advantage of the vast energy resources we have here in East Texas.

As always, if you have any ideas for legislation or any comments or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me at 512-463-0556 or district9.paddie@house.state.tx.us