District Toallowcapabilities Tothecy-Champ Another Successfulbillwasprovidingroaddevelopment Ing Theirbondcapabilities

al ofstructures andimpedimentsplacedon flood control flood controlissues, permitting themtoexpedite remov I worked hard to pass a bill that assists Harris County with them toexpedite roadimprovementsfortheirarea. UtilityDistrict toallowcapabilities totheCy-Champ Another successfulbillwasprovidingroaddevelopment ing theirbondcapabilities. expanding theirparksandrecreationfundingbyincreas 126, suchashelpingtheCharterwoodMUDDistrictwith I alsofiledlegislationwithdirectlocalimpactinDistrict 32otherpieces of legislation. the Senate,andco-authored bills, sponsored orjoint five bills sent overfrom 25 authored In all,I filedorjoint interests forourarea. were constituentgeneratedorsupported of measuresthat number the measureslistedabove.Isupporteda supporting We had a number of successes this session, in additionto held inapreciousmetaldepositorylocatedthisstate. ture toexemptprecious metal fromadvaloremtaxation The constitutionalamendmentauthorizingthelegisla itories tobetaxed aspersonalproperty. precious metalsheldindepos A “No”votewouldallow personal property. metals being held in a depository from being taxed as A “Yes” vote onthisamendmentwouldexempt precious online at More detailedargumentsforandagainsttheconstitutionalamendmentsonNovember5,2019ballotareavailable Representative Harless laying out his first bill before the legislature, supported by a host of other freshmen. ahost of other by supported before bill first legislature, the his out laying Harless Representative www.hro.house.state.tx.us Proposition 9(H.J.R. 95) CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS CONSTITUTIONAL OUR DISTRICT 126 LEGISLATION DISTRICT OUR , viewthereportentitled - - - -

property. on dispositionof current law original agencyorfollow the remain with A “No”votewouldrequiretheanimal their handlerorcaretaker uponretirement. A “Yes” votepermitsalegaltransferofservice animals to circumstances. law enforcementanimaltoaqualifiedcaretaker incertain The constitutionalamendmenttoallowthetransferofa no costtothestoreowner. ucts. Thisbillpermitsthereplacementofproductat rently hadnomechanismtoobtainreplacementprod ventory ofbeerhadbeentaintedbyfloodwaters,cur as aresultofHurricaneHarvey. Smallstoreswhosein The final billwepassed this session was a billthat came ing theinfluenceasinglehomecouldhaveonboard. association boardtoonememberperhousehold,limit Another billlimitedparticipationonahomeowner deployed outofstate. tuitionwhentheirspouse is spouses toreceivein-state One ofourprioritieswaslegislationtopermitmilitary training todepartmentsoutsideoffireserviceorganizations. ris CountyFire Marshaltoexpand theirdisasterresponse in legal fees. We also passed legislation permitting our Har easements, saving themanestimated $1.8 million dollars Constitutional AmendmentsProposed for2019Ballot Proposition 10(S.J.R. 32)

. - - - - -

(After approval) TDCJ Parole ReleaseStatus Line DPS DriverLicenseServices Injured Workers Hotline Housing &CommunityAffairs Tx CommissionOnEnvironmental Quality Crime Victim Services Consumer Protection Child SupportInfo&Payment Hotline Child, Disabled&ElderAbuseHotline Aging &DisabilityServices

Committees: PAID Permit 2803 Permit U.S. Postage U.S. PRSRT STD PRSRT Austin, Texas Austin, State Penalty For Private Use For Official Business STATE of TEXAS STATE (512)463-0496 ...... StateAffairs andLicensing&Administrative Procedures REPRESENTATIVE ...... Austin, Texas 78768-2910 ...... CAPITOL OFFICE: ...... P. O. Box 2910 ...... phone

E2.402 District 126 HELPFUL NUMBERS HELPFUL •(512)463-1507 ...... Please [email protected] .... To beaddedtoourdistributionlist. 512-406-5202 512-424-2600 800-252-7031 512-475-3800 512-239-1000 800-983-9933 800-621-0508 800-252-8014 800-252-5400 512-438-3011 fax  ContactUs Status Line(Priortoreleaseapproval) Department ofCriminalJustice Offender State BarLegalReferralServices Income Assistance&Flood Office Governor’s Texas CrimeStoppersHotline Texas DepartmentofTransportation DPS ConcealedCarryDivision Texas HouseofRepresentatives -www.house.texas.gov

Texas Legislature Online-https://capitol.texas.gov/ SAM HARLESS [email protected] 6630 CypresswoodDr#150 DISTRICT OFFICE:

Spring, Texas 77379 • 86thLegislativeUpdate (281)251-0194

...... District 126 • ...... Austin, Texas 78768-2910 Texas Austin, • ...... • Fall 2019 512-424-2600 877-787-8999 800-252-8477 800-252-9600 800-252-9690 325-944-1501 Sam Harless State Representative 2910 Box P.O. 512-424-7293 Sam Harless Sincerely, Please donothesitatetocontactourofficewhenwe can beofassistance. as wellinformationontheConstitutionalAmendments youwillseeontheNovember5ballot. This CapitolUpdateprovidesyouwithasummaryofbills Iauthoredthissession,importantbillspassed, for moreinformeddecisionmakingwhenitcametime tovote. proposed legislationandtopicswereextremelythe surveys about responses to helpfulandallowed bills. Yourupcoming important on and seekinput the Capitol at on has beengoing what on update During thelegislative session, we sent out amonthlyemaillegislative newsletter where we give an businesses andregulatorystateagencies. mittee. TheLicensingandAdministrativehas jurisdictionoverregulated Procedures Committee and mattersofstatepolicy. Ialsoserved on theLicensing and Administrative Procedures Com regulation, administrationofstategovernment,regulationpipelinesandpipelinecompanies, mittee. Thismajorcommitteeisresponsible for handlingimportantstatemattersincludingutility Forto theStateAffairsbe appointed myfreshmanlegislativesession,Iwastrulyhonoredto Com trafficking; hurricanerecovery;anddisasterpreparedness. for teachers; safety on schoolcampuses; mental health;human ing thepeopleofTexas including:bordersecurity;retirement lature workedaddress other keyalso diligentlyto issuesimpact were school financereform and property taxrelief. TheLegis lative priorities for thesession. Theirtoppriorities this session and Speaker DennisBonnencametogetherandsetoutlegis the session, Governor Greg Abbott, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, The 86thLegislative Session ended May 27. At thebeginningof and wheninthedistrict. important tomy constituents both during the legislative session advocate fortheissues to honor Itisan of HouseDistrict126. Thank youforallowingmetheprivilege of serving the people Dear Friends, legislative update The Texas HouseofRepresentativesisanEqual OpportunityEmployeranddoesnotdiscriminate onthebasisofrace,color, nationalorigin,sex, religion,ageor



disability inemployment ortheprovisionofservices.Thisnewsletterisavailable inalternateformatsuponrequest.Please call1-800-241-1163. d REPRESENTATIVE SAM HARLESS 126 i s

t  TEXAS HOUSEOFREPRESENTATIVES - - - - -

NEWSLETTER PROOF INSTRUCTIONS: PROOF SIGN-OFF: Carefully review the proof and mark revisions in red ink. Select the appropriate choice below and return Proof is correct and approved to print. the newsletter proof to House Reproduction (Reagan Building, Room G-20). Make Revisions. Send revised proof.

We will NOT print the newsletter until we receive your approval. REPRO USE Make Revisions. No proof necessary.

FROM: PROOF: DATE: Signature: ______Date: ______tr is ict d    126 YOUR VOTE, YOUR VOICE CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT ELECTION, NOVEMBER 5, 2019 REPRESENTATIVE SAM HARLESS  86TH LEGISLATIVE UPDATE CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS

The results of the 86th Legislature brings us ten new Constitutional Amendments to consider on November 5, 2019. We had significant accomplishments during the 86th Session, many of which had far-reaching implications for our con- TAX SYSTEM REFORM/TRANSPARENCY These amendments to the Texas Constitution will include several issues that I believe are important enough to bring them stituents in District 126 and other residents of Texas. Whether it was the budget, taxes, public education, or teacher Our system of notification for appraisals and appeals was to your attention through this newsletter. The exact ballot language is still being refined as I write this but you need time retirement, this legislature dealt with a good many issues important to all of us. We will hit the high points of a few of the largely considered unfair to many and the ability of taxing to decide just which ones deserve your support. The amendments are presented in order but all of them are important and major points from this session. One of the most important things for us this session was the harmony among members. We entities to continually raise tax rates dramatically impacted need your attention. For further research on the propositions go to https://tlc.texas.gov/docs/amendments/analyses19.pdf avoided divisive issues and were generally able to carry out the State's business without any distractions. some of our most vulnerable Texans. Senate Bill 2 brought Proposition 1 (H.J.R. 72) Proposition 5 (S.J.R. 24) improved transparency to your tax bill so that you can now “The constitutional amendment permitting a person to “The constitutional amendment dedicating the revenue re- BUDGET determine the source and amount of any increases to your hold more than one office as a municipal judge at the ceived from the existing state sales and use taxes that are The budget for the next biennium allocates $250.7 bil- taxes or tax rates in the future. At the same time, it curtailed same time.” imposed on sporting goods to the Texas Parks and Wild- lion (a 16% spending increase) and provides additional the growth of the percentage of revenue to 3.5% that cities or life Department and the Texas Historical Commission to funding for educators and other school workers under counties can collect without bringing the increase before the A “Yes” vote will permit a person elected as a municipal protect Texas’ natural areas, water quality, and history by local control of duly elected school boards. It provides voters for approval. judge to serve more than one municipality at a time. acquiring, managing, and improving state and local parks billions in property tax relief and includes a reduction in and historic sites while not increasing the rate of the state "Robin Hood” recapture. This budget adds over a billion Senate Bill 2 also makes several reforms to the appraisal review A “No” vote restricts a person to one elected judicial sales and use taxes.” in disaster recovery funds, adds more money for state process and establishes panels for large commercial proper- position at a time. hospitals, and transportation. All of which was done ties exceeding $50 million in value, as well as a Tax Advisory Swearing In Day at the Capitol, flanked by my wife, Patricia Harless, Proposition 2 (S.J.R. 79) A “Yes” vote supports transferring the tax revenue from without increasing sales taxes. Board within the Texas Comptroller’s Office to oversee the and our son, younger Sam. It was a great day to begin the session. “The constitutional amendment providing for the is- sporting goods sales to these two departments. entire property tax process. suance of additional general obligation bonds by the PUBLIC EDUCATION Texas Water Development Board in an amount not to A “No” vote allows the legislature to determine allocation One of the most important issues to our communities was exceed $200 million to provide financial assistance for of funds, just as with other agencies. fixing the public education system, something accom- DISASTER RECOVERY the development of certain projects in economically plished this session by adding funding for teachers and Pastor Chris Todd from Champion Forest Baptist Church This legislature addressed the effects of Hurricane Harvey in a number of different bills and many were success- distressed areas.” Proposition 6 (H.J.R. 12) other educators, while reducing school taxes. The effort opening a session of the Texas House with a prayer. ful. House Bill 5, provides better coordination and planning for wet debris management as well as developing “The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature called the "Texas Plan" in House Bill 3, led by our friend templates for contracts with vendors and establishes a training program for local governments through the A “Yes” vote on this measure supports the sale of general to increase by $3 billion the maximum bond amount au- and fellow Harris County State Representative Dan Hu- selors, they all contribute to a child's education and addi- Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service, for trench burning and debris removal. House Bill 6 establishes a obligation bonds by the Texas Water Development Board thorized for the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute berty, adds over $4 billion in funds for the classroom and tional funds are now available for merit pay opportunities. task force specifically for disaster recovery through the Texas Division of Emergency Management and permits up to a total of $200 million at any given time. of Texas.” encourages better outcomes and increased the pay oppor- It’s important that this was the first time in 30 years that the use of any state resources. I was proud to co-author and support both of these measures. The Senate also tunities for teachers and school workers across the state. a change to our public education funding system was not A “No” vote would require the TWDB be funded A “Yes” vote on this measure supports increasing the passed measures that affected disaster recovery, such as Senate Bill 6 which also relates to debris management Whether its teachers, librarians, nurses, or school coun- court ordered. through general revenue allocations. amount of bonds sold by the Texas Cancer and Research and obtaining federal grants. Senate Bill 8 seeks to develop a state management plan and creates a networking institute. group within regional watershed groups. Proposition 3 (H.J.R. 34) “The constitutional amendment authorizing the legisla- A “No” vote would allow their current bonds to reach their ture to provide for a temporary exemption from ad valor- limit on August 31, 2021. 2020-21 All Funds em taxation of a portion of the appraised value of certain Proposition No. 7 (H.J.R. 151) Total: $250.652 billion property damaged by a disaster.” TEACHER RETIREMENT “The constitutional amendment allowing increased distri- SYSTEM butions to the available school fund.” Business & Public Safety A “Yes” vote supports allowing political subdivisions to Our retired teachers have suffered for Economic Dev. & Criminal Justice permit a property tax exemption after the Governor has $37.057 billion $16.04 billion (6.4%) years without a cost of living adjust- A “Yes” vote on this amendment permits the General Land Agencies (14.8%) declared a disaster. Office to double the amount of funds distributed to schools. Natural Resources ment and many are greatly impacted of Education $9.013 billion (3.6%) $94.526 billion by rising health care costs, prescription A “No” vote would require property owners to appeal A “No” vote would require the legislature to transfer funds (37.7%) General Government medication, and deductibles. Since $7.43 billion (3%) appraisals based on diminished value from disasters. each session to meet the needs of public education funding. most teachers in Texas are prohibited Health & Judiciary from participation in the Social Se- Proposition 4 (H.J.R. 38) Proposition 8 (H.J.R. 4) Human Services $892.3 million (0.4%) curity System, even for their spouse, “The constitutional amendment prohibiting the impo- “The constitutional amendment providing for the creation $84.369 billion Regulatory $647.4 million (0.3%) their retirement system is a critical sition of an individual income tax, including a tax on of the flood infrastructure fund to assist in the financing of (33.7%) an individual’s share of partnership and unincorporated drainage, flood mitigation, and flood control projects.” Legislature source of income. Fixing the Teacher $392.1 million (0.2%) Retirement System started by making association income.” A “Yes” vote on this amendment permits the creation of a General Provisions it sustainable because only when it is A “Yes” vote confirms your support for a continuing pro- $285.3 million (0.11%) flood infrastructure fund, independent of the general reve- properly funded, can the legislature hibition on an individual state income tax. work on the cost of living adjustments. nue fund. It is designed to provide financing for drainage, To improve their situation in the short flood mitigation, or flood control projects. Notes: (1) Amounts estimated or budgeted for the 2018–19 biennium include supplemental spending adjustments in Article II for Medicaid and foster A “No” vote leaves the constitution as it is today allowing the care, but do not include adjustments from Senate Bill 500. (2) Contingent funding of $11.5 billion for House Bill 3 has been moved from Article IX to term, this years budget included a 13th legislature to implement a personal income tax at a later date. Article III, Public Education, for the purposes of this comparison. (3) Excludes Interagency Contracts. (4) Biennial change and percentage change are A “No” vote would require the legislature to allocate calculated on actual amounts before rounding. Therefore, figure totals may not sum due to rounding. check for retired teachers, averaging Klein ISD School Board members, with Dr. Jenny McGown, our new School Superintendent and Brett Champion, our former one. funds each session to fund projects. Source: Legislative Budget Board about $2,000.00 each.

Early Voting Begins October 21, 2019  Last Day to Register is October 7, 2019 al ofstructures andimpedimentsplacedonfloodcontrol flood controlissues, permitting themtoexpedite remov I workedwith assists HarrisCounty bill that pass a hardto them toexpedite roadimprovementsfortheirarea. UtilityDistricttoallowcapabilities totheCy-Champ Another successfulbillwasprovidingroaddevelopment ing theirbondcapabilities. expanding theirparksandrecreationfundingbyincreas 126, suchashelpingtheCharterwoodMUDDistrictwith I alsofiledlegislationwithdirectlocalimpactinDistrict 32otherpieces of legislation. the Senate,andco-authored bills, sponsored orjoint five bills sent overfrom 25 authored In all,Ifiledorjoint interests forourarea. were constituentgeneratedorsupported of measuresthat number the measureslistedabove.Isupporteda supporting We had a number of successes this session, in additionto itories tobetaxed aspersonalproperty. precious metalsheldindepos A “No”votewouldallow personal property. being taxeddepository from metals beingheldina as A “Yes” vote onthisamendmentwouldexempt precious held inapreciousmetaldepositorylocatedthisstate. ture toexemptprecious metal fromadvaloremtaxation The constitutionalamendmentauthorizingthelegisla online atwww.hro.house.state.tx.us More detailedargumentsforandagainsttheconstitutionalamendmentsonNovember5,2019ballotareavailable Representative Harless laying out his first bill before the legislature, supported by a host of other freshmen. ahost of other by supported before bill first legislature, the his out laying Harless Representative Proposition 9(H.J.R. 95) CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS CONSTITUTIONAL OUR DISTRICT 126 LEGISLATION DISTRICT OUR , viewthereportentitled - - - -

property. on dispositionof current law original agencyorfollow the remain with A “No”votewouldrequiretheanimal their handlerorcaretaker uponretirement. A “Yes” votepermitsalegal transferofservice animals to circumstances. law enforcementanimaltoaqualifiedcaretaker incertain The constitutionalamendmenttoallowthetransferofa no costtothestoreowner. ucts. Thisbillpermitsthereplacementofproductat rently hadnomechanismtoobtainreplacementprod- ventory ofbeerhadbeentaintedbyfloodwaters,cur as aresultofHurricaneHarvey. Smallstoreswhosein The final bill wepassed this session was a billthat came ing theinfluenceasinglehomecouldhaveonboard. association boardtoonememberperhousehold,limit Another billlimitedparticipationonahomeowner deployed outofstate. tuitionwhentheirspouseis spouses toreceivein-state One ofourprioritieswaslegislationtopermitmilitary training todepartmentsoutsideoffireserviceorganizations. ris CountyFire Marshaltoexpand theirdisasterresponse in legal fees. We also passed legislation permitting our Har estimatedan them $1.8saving easements, million dollars Constitutional AmendmentsProposed for2019Ballot. Proposition 10(S.J.R. 32)

- - - -

(After approval) TDCJ Parole Release StatusLine DPS DriverLicenseServices Injured Workers Hotline Housing &CommunityAffairs Tx CommissionOnEnvironmental Quality Crime Victim Services Consumer Protection Child SupportInfo&Payment Hotline Child, Disabled&ElderAbuseHotline Aging &DisabilityServices

Committees: StateAffairs andLicensing&Administrative Procedures PAID Permit 2803 Permit U.S. Postage U.S. PRSRT STD PRSRT Austin, Texas Austin, State Penalty For Private Use For Official Business STATE of TEXAS STATE (512)463-0496 ...... REPRESENTATIVE

......

...... Austin, Texas 78768-2910

...... CAPITOL OFFICE:

...... P. O. Box 2910

...... phone •(512)463-1507

E2.402 District 126 HELPFUL NUMBERS HELPFUL

......

...... Please [email protected]

... To beaddedtoourdistributionlist. 512-424-2600 800-252-7031 512-475-3800 512-239-1000 800-983-9933 800-621-0508 800-252-8014 800-252-5400 512-438-3011 512-406-5202 fax  ContactUs DPS ConcealedCarryDivision State BarLegalReferralServices Office Governor’s Income Assistance&Flood Texas CrimeStoppersHotline Texas DepartmentofTransportation Status Line(Priortoreleaseapproval) Department ofCriminalJustice Offender Texas HouseofRepresentatives -www.house.texas.gov Texas LegislatureOnline-https://capitol.texas.gov/ SAM HARLESS [email protected] 6630 CypresswoodDr#150 DISTRICT OFFICE:

Spring, Texas 77379 • 86thLegislativeUpdate (281)251-0194

...... District 126 •

......

...... Austin, Texas 78768-2910 Texas Austin, •

......

...... • Fall 2019 512-424-2600 877-787-8999 800-252-8477 800-252-9600 800-252-9690 325-944-1501 Sam Harless State Representative 2910 Box P.O. 512-424-7293 Sam Harless Sincerely, Please donothesitatetocontactourofficewhenwe can beofassistance. as wellinformationontheConstitutionalAmendments youwillseeontheNovember5ballot. This CapitolUpdateprovidesyouwithasummaryofbills Iauthoredthissession,importantbillspassed, for moreinformeddecisionmakingwhenitcametime tovote. proposed legislation andtopicswereextremelythe surveys about responses to helpfulandallowed update onwhathas been going onatthe Capitol and seek input onimportantupcomingbills. Your During thelegislative session, we sent out amonthlyemaillegislative newsletter where we give an businesses andregulatorystateagencies. mittee. TheLicensingandAdministrativehas jurisdictionoverregulated Procedures Committee and mattersofstatepolicy. Ialsoserved on theLicensing and Administrative Procedures Com regulation, administrationofstategovernment,regulationpipelinesandpipelinecompanies, mittee. Thismajorcommitteeisresponsible for handlingimportantstatemattersincludingutility Forto theStateAffairsbe appointed myfreshmanlegislative session,Iwastrulyhonoredto Com trafficking; hurricanerecovery;anddisasterpreparedness. for teachers; safety on schoolcampuses; mental health;human ing thepeopleofTexas including:bordersecurity;retirement lature workedaddress also otherkey diligentlyto issuesimpact were school financereform and property taxrelief. TheLegis lative priorities for thesession. Theirtoppriorities this session and Speaker DennisBonnencametogetherandsetoutlegis the session, Governor Greg Abbott, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, The 86thLegislative Session ended May 27. At thebeginningof and wheninthedistrict. legislative session during the my constituentsboth to important advocate fortheissues to honor Itisan of HouseDistrict126. Thank youforallowingmetheprivilege of serving the people Dear Friends, legislative update The Texas HouseofRepresentativesisanEqual Opportunity Employeranddoesnotdiscriminate on thebasisofrace,color, nationalorigin,sex, religion,ageor



disability inemployment ortheprovisionofservices.Thisnewsletterisavailable inalternateformatsuponrequest.Please call1-800-241-1163. d REPRESENTATIVE SAM HARLESS 126 i s

t  TEXAS HOUSEOFREPRESENTATIVES - - - - -

We will NOT print the newsletter until we receive your approval. REPRO USE Make Revisions. No proof necessary.

The results of the 86th Legislature brings us ten new Constitutional Amendments to consider on November 5, 2019. We had significant accomplishments during the 86th Session, many of which had far-reaching implications for our con- TAX SYSTEM REFORM/TRANSPARENCY These amendments to the Texas Constitution will include several issues that I believe are important enough to bring them stituents in District 126 and other residents of Texas. Whether it was the budget, taxes, public education, or teacher Our system of notification for appraisals and appeals was to your attention through this newsletter. The exact ballot language is still being refined as I write this but you need time retirement, this legislature dealt with a good many issues important to all of us. We will hit the high points of a few of the largely considered unfair to many and the ability of taxing to decide just which ones deserve your support. The amendments are presented in order but all of them are important and major points from this session. One of the most important things for us this session was the harmony among members. We entities to continually raise tax rates dramatically impacted need your attention. For further research on the propositions go to https://tlc.texas.gov/docs/amendments/analyses19.pdf avoided divisive issues and were generally able to carry out the State's business without any distractions. some of our most vulnerable Texans. Senate Bill 2 brought Proposition 1 (H.J.R. 72) Proposition 5 (S.J.R. 24) improved transparency to your tax bill so that you can now “The constitutional amendment permitting a person to “The constitutional amendment dedicating the revenue re- BUDGET determine the source and amount of any increases to your hold more than one office as a municipal judge at the ceived from the existing state sales and use taxes that are The budget for the next biennium allocates $250.7 bil- taxes or tax rates in the future. At the same time, it curtailed same time.” imposed on sporting goods to the Texas Parks and Wild- lion (a 16% spending increase) and provides additional the growth of the percentage of revenue to 3.5% that cities or life Department and the Texas Historical Commission to funding for educators and other school workers under counties can collect without bringing the increase before the A “Yes” vote will permit a person elected as a municipal protect Texas’ natural areas, water quality, and history by local control of duly elected school boards. It provides voters for approval. judge to serve more than one municipality at a time. acquiring, managing, and improving state and local parks billions in property tax relief and includes a reduction in and historic sites while not increasing the rate of the state "Robin Hood” recapture. This budget adds over a billion Senate Bill 2 also makes several reforms to the appraisal review A “No” vote restricts a person to one elected judicial sales and use taxes.” in disaster recovery funds, adds more money for state process and establishes panels for large commercial proper- position at a time. hospitals, and transportation. All of which was done ties exceeding $50 million in value, as well as a Tax Advisory Swearing In Day at the Capitol, flanked by my wife, Patricia Harless, Proposition 2 (S.J.R. 79) A “Yes” vote supports transferring the tax revenue from without increasing sales taxes. Board within the Texas Comptroller’s Office to oversee the and our son, younger Sam. It was a great day to begin the session. “The constitutional amendment providing for the is- sporting goods sales to these two departments. entire property tax process. suance of additional general obligation bonds by the PUBLIC EDUCATION Texas Water Development Board in an amount not to A “No” vote allows the legislature to determine allocation One of the most important issues to our communities was exceed $200 million to provide financial assistance for of funds, just as with other agencies. fixing the public education system, something accom- DISASTER RECOVERY the development of certain projects in economically plished this session by adding funding for teachers and Pastor Chris Todd from Champion Forest Baptist Church This legislature addressed the effects of Hurricane Harvey in a number of different bills and many were success- distressed areas.” Proposition 6 (H.J.R. 12) other educators, while reducing school taxes. The effort opening a session of the Texas House with a prayer. ful. House Bill 5, provides better coordination and planning for wet debris management as well as developing “The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature called the "Texas Plan" in House Bill 3, led by our friend templates for contracts with vendors and establishes a training program for local governments through the A “Yes” vote on this measure supports the sale of general to increase by $3 billion the maximum bond amount au- and fellow Harris County State Representative Dan Hu- selors, they all contribute to a child's education and addi- Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service, for trench burning and debris removal. House Bill 6 establishes a obligation bonds by the Texas Water Development Board thorized for the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute berty, adds over $4 billion in funds for the classroom and tional funds are now available for merit pay opportunities. task force specifically for disaster recovery through the Texas Division of Emergency Management and permits up to a total of $200 million at any given time. of Texas.” encourages better outcomes and increased the pay oppor- It’s important that this was the first time in 30 years that the use of any state resources. I was proud to co-author and support both of these measures. The Senate also tunities for teachers and school workers across the state. a change to our public education funding system was not A “No” vote would require the TWDB be funded A “Yes” vote on this measure supports increasing the passed measures that affected disaster recovery, such as Senate Bill 6 which also relates to debris management Whether its teachers, librarians, nurses, or school coun- court ordered. through general revenue allocations. amount of bonds sold by the Texas Cancer and Research and obtaining federal grants. Senate Bill 8 seeks to develop a state management plan and creates a networking institute. group within regional watershed groups. Proposition 3 (H.J.R. 34) “The constitutional amendment authorizing the legisla- A “No” vote would allow their current bonds to reach their ture to provide for a temporary exemption from ad valor- limit on August 31, 2021. em taxation of a portion of the appraised value of certain 2020-21 All Funds Proposition No. 7 (H.J.R. 151) Total: $250.652 billion property damaged by a disaster.” TEACHER RETIREMENT “The constitutional amendment allowing increased distri- SYSTEM butions to the available school fund.” Business & Public Safety A “Yes” vote supports allowing political subdivisions to & Criminal Justice Our retired teachers have suffered for Economic Dev. permit a property tax exemption after the Governor has A “Yes” vote on this amendment permits the General Land $37.057 billion $16.04 billion (6.4%) years without a cost of living adjust- Agencies (14.8%) declared a disaster. Office to double the amount of funds distributed to schools. Natural Resources ment and many are greatly impacted of Education $9.013 billion (3.6%) $94.526 billion by rising health care costs, prescription A “No” vote would require property owners to appeal A “No” vote would require the legislature to transfer funds (37.7%) General Government medication, and deductibles. Since $7.43 billion (3%) appraisals based on diminished value from disasters. each session to meet the needs of public education funding. most teachers in Texas are prohibited Health & Judiciary from participation in the Social Se- Proposition 4 (H.J.R. 38) Proposition 8 (H.J.R. 4) Human Services $892.3 million (0.4%) curity System, even for their spouse, “The constitutional amendment prohibiting the impo- “The constitutional amendment providing for the creation $84.369 billion Regulatory $647.4 million (0.3%) their retirement system is a critical sition of an individual income tax, including a tax on of the flood infrastructure fund to assist in the financing of (33.7%) an individual’s share of partnership and unincorporated drainage, flood mitigation, and flood control projects.” Legislature source of income. Fixing the Teacher $392.1 million (0.2%) Retirement System started by making association income.” A “Yes” vote on this amendment permits the creation of a General Provisions it sustainable because only when it is A “Yes” vote confirms your support for a continuing pro- $285.3 million (0.11%) flood infrastructure fund, independent of the general reve- properly funded, can the legislature hibition on an individual state income tax. work on the cost of living adjustments. nue fund. It is designed to provide financing for drainage, To improve their situation in the short flood mitigation, or flood control projects. Notes: (1) Amounts estimated or budgeted for the 2018–19 biennium include supplemental spending adjustments in Article II for Medicaid and foster A “No” vote leaves the constitution as it is today allowing the care, but do not include adjustments from Senate Bill 500. (2) Contingent funding of $11.5 billion for House Bill 3 has been moved from Article IX to term, this years budget included a 13th legislature to implement a personal income tax at a later date. Article III, Public Education, for the purposes of this comparison. (3) Excludes Interagency Contracts. (4) Biennial change and percentage change are A “No” vote would require the legislature to allocate calculated on actual amounts before rounding. Therefore, figure totals may not sum due to rounding. check for retired teachers, averaging Klein ISD School Board members, with Dr. Jenny McGown, our new School Superintendent and Brett Champion, our former one. funds each session to fund projects. Source: Legislative Budget Board about $2,000.00 each.

Early Voting BEgins octoBEr 21, 2019  last Day to rEgistEr is octoBEr 7, 2019 tr is ict d    126 YOUR VOTE, YOUR VOICE CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT ELECTION, NOVEMBER 5, 2019 REPRESENTATIVE SAM HARLESS  86TH LEGISLATIVE UPDATE CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS

The results of the 86th Legislature brings us ten new Constitutional Amendments to consider on November 5, 2019. We had significant accomplishments during the 86th Session, many of which had far-reaching implications for our con- TAX SYSTEM REFORM/TRANSPARENCY These amendments to the Texas Constitution will include several issues that I believe are important enough to bring them stituents in District 126 and other residents of Texas. Whether it was the budget, taxes, public education, or teacher Our system of notification for appraisals and appeals was to your attention through this newsletter. The exact ballot language is still being refined as I write this but you need time retirement, this legislature dealt with a good many issues important to all of us. We will hit the high points of a few of the largely considered unfair to many and the ability of taxing to decide just which ones deserve your support. The amendments are presented in order but all of them are important and major points from this session. One of the most important things for us this session was the harmony among members. We entities to continually raise tax rates dramatically impacted need your attention. For further research on the propositions go to https://tlc.texas.gov/docs/amendments/analyses19.pdf avoided divisive issues and were generally able to carry out the State's business without any distractions. some of our most vulnerable Texans. Senate Bill 2 brought Proposition 1 (H.J.R. 72) Proposition 5 (S.J.R. 24) improved transparency to your tax bill so that you can now “The constitutional amendment permitting a person to “The constitutional amendment dedicating the revenue re- BUDGET determine the source and amount of any increases to your hold more than one office as a municipal judge at the ceived from the existing state sales and use taxes that are The budget for the next biennium allocates $250.7 bil- taxes or tax rates in the future. At the same time, it curtailed same time.” imposed on sporting goods to the Texas Parks and Wild- lion (a 16% spending increase) and provides additional the growth of the percentage of revenue to 3.5% that cities or life Department and the Texas Historical Commission to funding for educators and other school workers under counties can collect without bringing the increase before the A “Yes” vote will permit a person elected as a municipal protect Texas’ natural areas, water quality, and history by local control of duly elected school boards. It provides voters for approval. judge to serve more than one municipality at a time. acquiring, managing, and improving state and local parks billions in property tax relief and includes a reduction in and historic sites while not increasing the rate of the state "Robin Hood” recapture. This budget adds over a billion Senate Bill 2 also makes several reforms to the appraisal review A “No” vote restricts a person to one elected judicial sales and use taxes.” in disaster recovery funds, adds more money for state process and establishes panels for large commercial proper- position at a time. hospitals, and transportation. All of which was done ties exceeding $50 million in value, as well as a Tax Advisory Swearing In Day at the Capitol, flanked by my wife, Patricia Harless, Proposition 2 (S.J.R. 79) A “Yes” vote supports transferring the tax revenue from without increasing sales taxes. Board within the Texas Comptroller’s Office to oversee the and our son, younger Sam. It was a great day to begin the session. “The constitutional amendment providing for the is- sporting goods sales to these two departments. entire property tax process. suance of additional general obligation bonds by the PUBLIC EDUCATION Texas Water Development Board in an amount not to A “No” vote allows the legislature to determine allocation One of the most important issues to our communities was exceed $200 million to provide financial assistance for of funds, just as with other agencies. fixing the public education system, something accom- DISASTER RECOVERY the development of certain projects in economically plished this session by adding funding for teachers and Pastor Chris Todd from Champion Forest Baptist Church This legislature addressed the effects of Hurricane Harvey in a number of different bills and many were success- distressed areas.” Proposition 6 (H.J.R. 12) other educators, while reducing school taxes. The effort opening a session of the Texas House with a prayer. ful. House Bill 5, provides better coordination and planning for wet debris management as well as developing “The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature called the "Texas Plan" in House Bill 3, led by our friend templates for contracts with vendors and establishes a training program for local governments through the A “Yes” vote on this measure supports the sale of general to increase by $3 billion the maximum bond amount au- and fellow Harris County State Representative Dan Hu- selors, they all contribute to a child's education and addi- Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service, for trench burning and debris removal. House Bill 6 establishes a obligation bonds by the Texas Water Development Board thorized for the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute berty, adds over $4 billion in funds for the classroom and tional funds are now available for merit pay opportunities. task force specifically for disaster recovery through the Texas Division of Emergency Management and permits up to a total of $200 million at any given time. of Texas.” encourages better outcomes and increased the pay oppor- It’s important that this was the first time in 30 years that the use of any state resources. I was proud to co-author and support both of these measures. The Senate also tunities for teachers and school workers across the state. a change to our public education funding system was not A “No” vote would require the TWDB be funded A “Yes” vote on this measure supports increasing the passed measures that affected disaster recovery, such as Senate Bill 6 which also relates to debris management Whether its teachers, librarians, nurses, or school coun- court ordered. through general revenue allocations. amount of bonds sold by the Texas Cancer and Research and obtaining federal grants. Senate Bill 8 seeks to develop a state management plan and creates a networking institute. group within regional watershed groups. Proposition 3 (H.J.R. 34) “The constitutional amendment authorizing the legisla- A “No” vote would allow their current bonds to reach their ture to provide for a temporary exemption from ad valor- limit on August 31, 2021. em taxation of a portion of the appraised value of certain 2020-21 All Funds Proposition No. 7 (H.J.R. 151) Total: $250.652 billion property damaged by a disaster.” TEACHER RETIREMENT “The constitutional amendment allowing increased distri- SYSTEM butions to the available school fund.” Business & Public Safety A “Yes” vote supports allowing political subdivisions to & Criminal Justice Our retired teachers have suffered for Economic Dev. permit a property tax exemption after the Governor has A “Yes” vote on this amendment permits the General Land $37.057 billion $16.04 billion (6.4%) years without a cost of living adjust- Agencies (14.8%) declared a disaster. Office to double the amount of funds distributed to schools. Natural Resources ment and many are greatly impacted of Education $9.013 billion (3.6%) $94.526 billion by rising health care costs, prescription A “No” vote would require property owners to appeal A “No” vote would require the legislature to transfer funds (37.7%) General Government medication, and deductibles. Since $7.43 billion (3%) appraisals based on diminished value from disasters. each session to meet the needs of public education funding. most teachers in Texas are prohibited Health & Judiciary from participation in the Social Se- Proposition 4 (H.J.R. 38) Proposition 8 (H.J.R. 4) Human Services $892.3 million (0.4%) curity System, even for their spouse, “The constitutional amendment prohibiting the impo- “The constitutional amendment providing for the creation $84.369 billion Regulatory $647.4 million (0.3%) their retirement system is a critical sition of an individual income tax, including a tax on of the flood infrastructure fund to assist in the financing of (33.7%) an individual’s share of partnership and unincorporated drainage, flood mitigation, and flood control projects.” Legislature source of income. Fixing the Teacher $392.1 million (0.2%) Retirement System started by making association income.” A “Yes” vote on this amendment permits the creation of a General Provisions it sustainable because only when it is A “Yes” vote confirms your support for a continuing pro- $285.3 million (0.11%) flood infrastructure fund, independent of the general reve- properly funded, can the legislature hibition on an individual state income tax. work on the cost of living adjustments. nue fund. It is designed to provide financing for drainage, To improve their situation in the short flood mitigation, or flood control projects. Notes: (1) Amounts estimated or budgeted for the 2018–19 biennium include supplemental spending adjustments in Article II for Medicaid and foster A “No” vote leaves the constitution as it is today allowing the care, but do not include adjustments from Senate Bill 500. (2) Contingent funding of $11.5 billion for House Bill 3 has been moved from Article IX to term, this years budget included a 13th legislature to implement a personal income tax at a later date. Article III, Public Education, for the purposes of this comparison. (3) Excludes Interagency Contracts. (4) Biennial change and percentage change are A “No” vote would require the legislature to allocate calculated on actual amounts before rounding. Therefore, figure totals may not sum due to rounding. check for retired teachers, averaging Klein ISD School Board members, with Dr. Jenny McGown, our new School Superintendent and Brett Champion, our former one. funds each session to fund projects. Source: Legislative Budget Board about $2,000.00 each.

Early Voting BEgins octoBEr 21, 2019  last Day to rEgistEr is octoBEr 7, 2019 al ofstructures andimpedimentsplacedonfloodcontrol flood controlissues, permitting themtoexpedite remov I workedwith assists HarrisCounty bill that pass a hardto them toexpedite roadimprovementsfortheirarea. UtilityDistricttoallowcapabilities totheCy-Champ Another successfulbillwasprovidingroaddevelopment ing theirbondcapabilities. expanding theirparksandrecreationfundingbyincreas 126, suchashelpingtheCharterwoodMUDDistrictwith I alsofiledlegislationwithdirectlocalimpactinDistrict 32otherpieces of legislation. the Senate,andco-authored bills, sponsored orjoint five bills sent overfrom 25 authored In all,Ifiledorjoint interests forourarea. were constituentgeneratedorsupported of measuresthat number the measureslistedabove.Isupporteda supporting We had a number of successes this session, in additionto itories tobetaxed aspersonalproperty. precious metalsheldindepos A “No”votewouldallow personal property. being taxeddepository from metals beingheldina as A “Yes” vote onthisamendmentwouldexempt precious held inapreciousmetaldepositorylocatedthisstate. ture toexemptprecious metal fromadvaloremtaxation The constitutionalamendmentauthorizingthelegisla online atwww.hro.house.state.tx.us More detailedargumentsforandagainsttheconstitutionalamendmentsonNovember5,2019ballotareavailable Representative Harless laying out his first bill before the legislature, supported by a host of other freshmen. ahost of other by supported before bill first legislature, the his out laying Harless Representative Proposition 9(H.J.R. 95) CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS CONSTITUTIONAL OUR DISTRICT 126 LEGISLATION DISTRICT OUR , viewthereportentitled - - - -

property. on dispositionof current law original agencyorfollow the remain with A “No”votewouldrequiretheanimal their handlerorcaretaker uponretirement. A “Yes” votepermitsalegal transfer ofservice animals to circumstances. law enforcementanimaltoaqualifiedcaretaker incertain The constitutionalamendmenttoallowthetransferofa no costtothestoreowner. ucts. Thisbillpermitsthereplacementofproductat rently hadnomechanismtoobtainreplacementprod- ventory ofbeerhadbeentaintedbyfloodwaters,cur as aresultofHurricaneHarvey. Smallstoreswhosein The final bill wepassed this session was a billthat came ing theinfluenceasinglehomecouldhaveonboard. association boardtoonememberperhousehold,limit Another billlimitedparticipationonahomeowner deployed outofstate. tuitionwhentheirspouseis spouses toreceivein-state One ofourprioritieswaslegislationtopermitmilitary training todepartmentsoutsideoffireserviceorganizations. ris CountyFire Marshaltoexpand theirdisasterresponse in legal fees. We also passed legislation permitting our Har estimatedan them $1.8saving easements, million dollars Constitutional AmendmentsProposed for2019Ballot. Proposition 10(S.J.R. 32)

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(After approval) TDCJ Parole Release StatusLine DPS DriverLicenseServices Injured Workers Hotline Housing &CommunityAffairs Tx CommissionOnEnvironmental Quality Crime Victim Services Consumer Protection Child SupportInfo&Payment Hotline Child, Disabled&ElderAbuseHotline Aging &DisabilityServices

......

...... Austin, Texas 78768-2910

...... CAPITOL OFFICE:

...... P. O. Box 2910

...... phone •(512)463-1507

E2.402 District 126 HELPFUL NUMBERS HELPFUL

......

...... Please [email protected]

... To beaddedtoourdistributionlist. 512-406-5202 512-424-2600 800-252-7031 512-475-3800 512-239-1000 800-983-9933 800-621-0508 800-252-8014 800-252-5400 512-438-3011 fax  ContactUs DPS ConcealedCarryDivision State BarLegalReferralServices Office Governor’s Income Assistance&Flood Texas CrimeStoppersHotline Texas DepartmentofTransportation Status Line(Priortoreleaseapproval) Department ofCriminalJustice Offender Texas HouseofRepresentatives -www.house.texas.gov Texas LegislatureOnline-https://capitol.texas.gov/ SAM HARLESS [email protected] 6630 CypresswoodDr#150 DISTRICT OFFICE:

Spring, Texas 77379 • 86thLegislativeUpdate (281)251-0194

...... District 126 •

......

...... Austin, Texas 78768-2910 Texas Austin, •

......

...... • Fall 2019 512-424-2600 877-787-8999 800-252-8477 800-252-9600 800-252-9690 325-944-1501 Sam Harless State Representative 2910 Box P.O. 512-424-7293 Sam Harless Sincerely, Please donothesitatetocontactourofficewhenwe can beofassistance. as wellinformationontheConstitutionalAmendments youwillseeontheNovember5ballot. This CapitolUpdateprovidesyouwithasummaryofbills Iauthoredthissession,importantbillspassed, for moreinformeddecisionmakingwhenitcametime tovote. proposed legislation andtopicswereextremelythe surveys about responses to helpfulandallowed update onwhathas been going onatthe Capitol and seek input onimportantupcomingbills. Your During thelegislative session, we sent out amonthlyemaillegislative newsletter where we give an businesses andregulatorystateagencies. mittee. TheLicensingandAdministrativehas jurisdictionoverregulated Procedures Committee and mattersofstatepolicy. Ialsoserved on theLicensing and Administrative Procedures Com regulation, administrationofstategovernment,regulationpipelinesandpipelinecompanies, mittee. Thismajorcommitteeisresponsible for handlingimportantstatemattersincludingutility Forto theStateAffairsbe appointed myfreshmanlegislative session,Iwastrulyhonoredto Com trafficking; hurricanerecovery;anddisasterpreparedness. for teachers; safety on schoolcampuses; mental health;human ing thepeopleofTexas including:bordersecurity;retirement lature workedaddress other keyalso diligentlyto issuesimpact were school financereform and property taxrelief. TheLegis lative priorities for thesession. Theirtoppriorities this session and Speaker DennisBonnencametogetherandsetoutlegis the session, Governor Greg Abbott, Lt. Governor DanPatrick, The 86thLegislative Session ended May 27. At thebeginningof and wheninthedistrict. legislative session during the my constituentsboth to important advocate fortheissues to honor Itisan of HouseDistrict126. Thank youforallowingmetheprivilege of serving the people Dear Friends, legislative update The Texas HouseofRepresentativesisanEqualOpportunity Employeranddoesnotdiscriminate onthebasisofrace,color, nationalorigin,sex, religion,ageor



disability inemployment ortheprovisionofservices.Thisnewsletterisavailable inalternateformatsuponrequest.Please call1-800-241-1163. d REPRESENTATIVE SAM HARLESS 126 i s

t  TEXAS HOUSEOFREPRESENTATIVES - - - - -

We will NOT print the newsletter until we receive your approval. REPRO USE Make Revisions. No proof necessary.

FROM: PROOF: DATE: Signature: ______Date: ______al ofstructures andimpedimentsplacedonfloodcontrol flood controlissues, permitting themtoexpedite remov I workedwith assists HarrisCounty bill that pass a hardto them toexpedite roadimprovementsfortheirarea. UtilityDistricttoallowcapabilities totheCy-Champ Another successfulbillwasprovidingroaddevelopment ing theirbondcapabilities. expanding theirparksandrecreationfundingbyincreas 126, suchashelpingtheCharterwoodMUDDistrictwith I alsofiledlegislationwithdirectlocalimpactinDistrict 32otherpieces of legislation. the Senate,andco-authored bills, sponsored orjoint five bills sent overfrom 25 authored In all,Ifiledorjoint interests forourarea. were constituentgeneratedorsupported of measuresthat number the measureslistedabove.Isupporteda supporting We had a number of successes this session, in additionto itories tobetaxed aspersonalproperty. precious metalsheldindepos A “No”votewouldallow personal property. being taxeddepository from metals beingheldina as A “Yes” vote onthisamendmentwouldexempt precious held inapreciousmetaldepositorylocatedthisstate. ture toexemptprecious metal fromadvaloremtaxation The constitutionalamendmentauthorizingthelegisla online atwww.hro.house.state.tx.us More detailedargumentsforandagainsttheconstitutionalamendmentsonNovember5,2019ballotareavailable Representative Harless laying out his first bill before the legislature, supported by a host of other freshmen. ahost of other by supported before bill first legislature, the his out laying Harless Representative Proposition 9(H.J.R. 95) CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS CONSTITUTIONAL OUR DISTRICT 126 LEGISLATION DISTRICT OUR , viewthereportentitled - - - -

property. on dispositionof current law original agencyorfollow the remain with A “No”votewouldrequiretheanimal their handlerorcaretaker uponretirement. A “Yes” votepermitsalegal transfer ofservice animals to circumstances. law enforcementanimaltoaqualifiedcaretaker incertain The constitutionalamendmenttoallowthetransferofa no costtothestoreowner. ucts. Thisbillpermitsthereplacementofproductat rently hadnomechanismtoobtainreplacementprod- ventory ofbeerhadbeentaintedbyfloodwaters,cur as aresultofHurricaneHarvey. Smallstoreswhosein The final bill wepassed this session was a billthat came ing theinfluenceasinglehomecouldhaveonboard. association boardtoonememberperhousehold,limit Another billlimitedparticipationonahomeowner deployed outofstate. tuitionwhentheirspouseis spouses toreceivein-state One ofourprioritieswaslegislationtopermitmilitary training todepartmentsoutsideoffireserviceorganizations. ris CountyFire Marshaltoexpand theirdisasterresponse in legal fees. We also passed legislation permitting our Har estimatedan them $1.8saving easements, million dollars Constitutional AmendmentsProposed for2019Ballot. Proposition 10(S.J.R. 32)

- - - -

(After approval) TDCJ Parole Release StatusLine DPS DriverLicenseServices Injured Workers Hotline Housing &CommunityAffairs Tx CommissionOnEnvironmental Quality Crime Victim Services Consumer Protection Child SupportInfo&Payment Hotline Child, Disabled&ElderAbuseHotline Aging &DisabilityServices

......

...... Austin, Texas 78768-2910

...... CAPITOL OFFICE:

...... P. O. Box 2910

...... phone •(512)463-1507

E2.402 District 126 HELPFUL NUMBERS HELPFUL

......

...... Please [email protected]

Spring, Texas 77379 • 86thLegislativeUpdate (281)251-0194

...... District 126 •

......

...... Austin, Texas 78768-2910 Texas Austin, •

......

...... • Fall 2019 512-424-2600 877-787-8999 800-252-8477 800-252-9600 800-252-9690 325-944-1501 Sam Harless State Representative 2910 Box P.O. 512-424-7293 Forto theStateAffairsbe appointed myfreshmanlegislative session,Iwastrulyhonoredto Com trafficking; hurricanerecovery;anddisasterpreparedness. for teachers; safety on schoolcampuses;mentalhealth;human ing thepeopleofTexas including:bordersecurity;retirement lature workedaddress other keyalso diligentlyto issuesimpact were school financereform and property taxrelief. TheLegis lative priorities for thesession. Theirtoppriorities this session and Speaker DennisBonnencametogetherandsetoutlegis the session, Governor Greg Abbott, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, The 86thLegislative Session ended May 27. At thebeginningof and wheninthedistrict. legislative session during the my constituentsboth to important advocate fortheissues to honor Itisan of HouseDistrict126. Thank youforallowingmetheprivilege of serving the people Dear Friends, Sam Harless Sincerely, Please donothesitatetocontactourofficewhenwe can beofassistance. as wellinformationontheConstitutionalAmendments youwillseeontheNovember5ballot. This CapitolUpdateprovidesyouwithasummaryofbills Iauthoredthissession,importantbillspassed, for moreinformeddecisionmakingwhenitcametime tovote. proposed legislation andtopicswereextremelythe surveys about responses to helpfulandallowed update onwhathas been going onatthe Capitol and seek input onimportantupcomingbills. Your During thelegislative session, we sent out amonthlyemaillegislative newsletter where we give an businesses andregulatorystateagencies. mittee. TheLicensingandAdministrativehas jurisdictionoverregulated Procedures Committee and mattersofstatepolicy. Ialsoserved on theLicensing and Administrative Procedures Com regulation, administrationofstategovernment,regulationpipelinesandpipelinecompanies, mittee. Thismajorcommitteeisresponsible for handlingimportantstatemattersincludingutility legislative update The Texas HouseofRepresentativesisanEqual Opportunity Employeranddoesnotdiscriminate on thebasisofrace,color, nationalorigin,sex, religion,ageor



disability inemployment ortheprovisionofservices.Thisnewsletterisavailable inalternateformatsuponrequest.Please call1-800-241-1163. d REPRESENTATIVE SAM HARLESS 126 i s

t  TEXAS HOUSEOFREPRESENTATIVES - - - - -

We will NOT print the newsletter until we receive your approval. REPRO USE Make Revisions. No proof necessary.

FROM: PROOF: DATE: Signature: ______Date: ______