The House of Representatives took up two important pieces of legislation on Friday.  We debated open carry (H.B. 910) and a bill that ensures that the state remains the regulator of energy production, preventing out-of-control cities from banning oil and gas activities (H.B. 40).  I am proud to be a joint author of both of these bills.

During the week, the House Ways and Means Committee passed the House’s tax cut plan.  The House plan totals $4.9 billion in tax cuts, including reducing the state sales tax from 6.25% to 5.95%.  The plan would also cut the state business tax from 1% to 0.75%.  These tax cuts are not ones that can be undone on the local level, as we have seen with previous property tax cuts.  The House plan will result in direct tax savings to Texas families and businesses.

In addition, I passed a bill through the House that would allow our probation officers to use their law enforcement training to qualify for a CHL, which should reduce redundant training and allow these law enforcement professionals to defend themselves and their families.  I also passed a bill that will help our counties better serve our veterans by increasing the number of people who can be accredited as a county veterans service officer.

On Thursday, I presented Kari’s Law to the House Committee on Homeland Security and Public Safety.  The reception from the committee was very promising; I am looking forward to having Kari’s Law up for debate on the House floor very soon.

As the legislative session continues, I want to encourage you to contact me if you have any questions or concerns. I want to hear your opinion regarding the issues that are important to you. It is with your input that I am able to best represent you. My office number is 512-463-0556 or district9.paddie@house.state.tx.us.