REPORT TO THE PEOPLE OF TEXAS GOVERNOR GREG ABBOTT The promise of the future knows no bounds, and the Lone Star State remains the best place to raise a family, build a business and create greater opportunity for all. The true secret to the robust strength and resilience of the Texas economy is our greatest natural resource: the hardworking people of Texas. It is a privilege to serve the people of this great state, working by your side to ensure the future is bigger and brighter for generations to come.
2016 “Without dreams, there is no need to work.
Without work, there is no need to dream.
Success requires big aspirations to dream great things and the work ethic to achieve them.”
Governor Abbott’s remarks to high school students attending the Hispanic Engineering, Science and Technology Week at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, October 2015
Letter from the Governor ...... 3 Key Indicators ...... 4 Overview: Session Successes ...... 5 Job Growth...... 7 Education Gains ...... 10 Degrees of Success ...... 12 Honoring Our Veterans ...... 14 Securing Texans ...... 16 Life and Liberty ...... 19 On the cover: Governor Abbott addressing business leaders at the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Congratulating a graduating class of Texas Everyday Texans...... 21 Department of Public Safety recruits. Promoting the more than 280 Texas-based First Lady’s Report ...... 24 companies listed on the New York Stock Exchange during an economic development trip to New York. Celebrating the future of Texas with bright young Looking Ahead...... 26 students at Emerson Elementary School in Houston. Letter from the Governor
The only thing bigger than Texas today is Texas tomorrow. In this first Report to the People, we look back at an incredible year. We celebrated so many Texas heroes in 2015: our law enforcement officers and first responders, our men and women in uniform, our students and educators, the entrepreneurs and innovators building their businesses and growing new jobs—and everyday Texans who went to work and to school each day, all to make tomorrow brighter for their families, their community, our state and our nation.
hether tested by fire or and our workforce strong. Despite W flood, by acts of nature or the drop in oil prices, jobs are acts of madmen, Texans came growing here and families are together this year: Neighbors growing here. helped neighbors, and strangers The Texas model is proof that helped new friends. We saw again limited government encourages and again the strength of unlimited opportunity. Less character of our Texas family as we government, low taxes, smarter paused to remember lives lost and regulations and right-to-work to celebrate lives saved. laws—these are the pro-growth While traveling across this state, economic policies that help free it’s been an honor to shake your enterprise flourish in Texas. hand, look you in the eye and Going forward, we will continue to listen to your concerns and hopes take a strong stand against known for the future. As Texans, we know threats—the drug cartels, the bonds we share transcend our transnational gangs and human differences. We look to the horizon smuggling and trafficking and see opportunities unbounded. operations—and against unknown We look to our families and see threats from those who seek to cultures blended and strong. And wage war against our freedoms we look to the future and ask: How and our liberty. do we give all of our children lives worthy of their promise? It is a privilege to serve the people of this great state, working by your Children born last year will side to ensure the future is bigger graduate from college in 2036, and brighter for generations to the bicentennial year of our state’s come. The First Lady and I thank independence. What kind of Texas you for your letters, your calls and will they inherit? That is our shared your prayers. focus: building an even stronger Texas for tomorrow. May God bless you all in the year ahead, and may He forever bless Today, Texas remains the land of the great State of Texas. opportunity, a bright beacon for the nation. Our economy is diverse 2016 REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 3
Private-sector Texas population GREW JOBS added: by more than
TEXAS is #1 6million with over 1.85 million jobs since 2000, added in the last 10 years MORE than any other state
Source: BLS, seasonally adjusted CES, as of December 2015 Source: US Census Bureau, most current data, July 2000-July 2014
Small, mid-size and large cities: Unemployment in Texas: Fastest- growing 4.7 % economies At or BELOW the national average ALL in Texas; 9 of Top 10 overall for 108 consecutive months Source: WalletHub, 2015 Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Texas, as of December 2015
Nation’s top CEOs name Women-owned businesses Texas BEST State for Business in Texas GROWING
# 2X faster 1 than ALL businesses nationwide for 11 years in a row Source: 2015 State of Women-Owned Businesses, Source: Chief Executive magazine annual survey, 2015 American Express OPEN and Womenable
Texas on-time high school College degrees and certificates graduation rate: awarded in Texas
88.3 % up 61% ALL-TIME HIGH; again surpassing since 2000; doubling enrollment of the national average of 82.3% African-Americans and Hispanics
Source: National Center for Education Statistics, 2014 Class Source: THECB, 2000 to 2014
Overview: Session Successes Building an even stronger Texas
After taking the bold, ambitious agenda— Teachers now have access A that’s what observers called to new specialized training to help oath of office as the top priorities I outlined for the more of our children master 84th Legislative Session. One year critical reading and math skills in governor of this later, I’m happy to report that we kindergarten through fifth grade. are following through on those Parents are being empowered promises and much more. great state, with clear and concise school performance information so they I promised to improve our EARLY EDUCATION can make the best educational public and higher education With strong bipartisan support in decisions for their children. systems, build new roads, both the Texas House and Senate, we passed a critical legislative secure our border and chart HIGHER EDUCATION package strengthening the a course that keeps Texas a To make college more affordable foundation on which our children beacon of individual liberty for more Texas families: will build their future. and economic opportunity. More college credits earned School districts are awarded early in high school are counted. more resources to improve pre-kindergarten program quality College credits transfer more while being held more accountable easily between institutions. for student success. Career and technical training pathways are cleared of obstacles to meet the growing demand in
high-skilled technical fields.
“Education is the key that opens the door to economic opportunity.” Governor Abbott honoring 2015 National Teacher of the Year Shanna Peeples from Palo Duro High School in Amarillo. Celebrating the first day of school with students at Zavala Elementary in Austin. Announcing a major grant by the United Health Foundation to The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine in Edinburg.
2016 REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 5
“Texas is the land of opportunity, where the improbable becomes the possible… The future is yet to be written—all of our children should be its authors.” Governor Abbott’s remarks to the Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of Commerce, June 2015
And because technologies not yet We cut the business franchise FREEDOM invented will drive continuing tax by 25 percent. Thanks to all of my partners in the innovation in higher education and 84th Legislature, much more was And we’re providing tax relief future job growth: accomplished this session. to homeowners by increasing the We’ve committed $450 million homestead exemption to $25,000 We’re keeping our state strong to elevate our university research while holding local taxing districts and prosperous with a budget programs and to attract even more more accountable to voters as first below the state’s spending limit. nationally recognized researchers steps toward lasting relief. We’re removing barriers to job and Nobel Laureates. growth to unleash the power of BORDER SECURITY entrepreneurs and innovators. ROADS To address the threats posed to To keep Texas commerce and communities large and small all And we’re securing Texans’ commuters moving: across our state due to the federal freedom to aspire. government’s failure to secure our We’re adding nearly $4 billion nation’s border: I invite you to read more in this more for roads without raising report about all we accomplished tolls, fees, debt or taxes. We are nearly doubling our together in 2015. And I look investment in border security, forward to the successes to come TAX RELIEF allocating approximately $800 as we build an even stronger We’re freeing Texas businesses million for added public safety Texas for tomorrow. and homeowners to invest more of personnel, technology and local their own money in new jobs, resources. higher wages and stimulating the
Texas economy.
“While other states are raising taxes, we just slashed the business franchise tax by 25 percent.” Governor Abbott and the First Lady welcoming guests to a Governor’s Commission for Women luncheon honoring women serving in the 84th Texas Legislature. Traveling to Mexico on his first international trip to strengthen trade relations. Touring the 1.25-million-square-foot Amazon Fulfillment Center in Schertz.
6 GOVERNOR GREG ABBOTT Job Growth Spurring continuing economic expansion
Job creation is the lifeblood of our state; our long history of job growth equates to more opportunity for all Texans.
Governor Abbott accepting a personalized welding helmet at Texas State Technical College’s 50th Anniversary Celebration.
ecause of the robust Texas still leads in energy
B strength, resilience and production and exports; we’re also diversity of the Texas economy— among the top states for the 12th largest in the world—jobs technology, manufacturing and
are growing and employment is healthcare jobs. holding steady, according to the Even as our population grows, Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, the unemployment rate has been despite losses in the energy sector at or below the national average ► VIDEO LINKS: driven by the drop in oil prices. In for 108 consecutive months. Governor Abbott Lures Businesses fact, manufacturing accelerated in To Texas From NY the last quarter of 2015. In fact, if not for Texas’ record job growth, the nation as a whole Governor Abbott Goes To Mexico JOB GROWTH REPORT would have experienced a net job Governor Abbott Goes To Cuba Texas employers added loss since the 2007 recession. 166,900 non-farm jobs in 2015 across nine of 11 major industries. BUSINESS CLIMATE REPORT When businesses succeed here, Job creators include 2.4 million Texans succeed. small businesses and 54 Fortune 500 companies attracted by our Texas ranks first for economic work-ready job force of 13 million. climate according to Forbes.
2016 REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 7 Texas is again ranked the best state for business—the 11th year 2015 CORPORATE RELOCATIONS AND EXPANSIONS in a row—in Chief Executive’s survey of the nation’s top CEOs. Attracted by Governor Abbott’s pro-growth economic policies and our work-ready job force, even more businesses and jobs came to Texas is the No. 1 state for Texas this year, including: foreign and domestic investments as noted in IBM’s 2015 Global Kubota Tractor─from Torrance, Calif., to Grapevine, a $51 million Location Trends Facts & Figures. capital investment creating 344 new jobs; Farmer Brothers─also from Torrance, Calif., to Grapevine, a $65 Texas is also the top performing million investment bringing 350 new jobs; state for qualified capital investments for the third year in a LiveOps─from Redwood City, Calif., to Cedar Park, a $5 million row and the sixth year since 2004. capital investment in Texas adding 155 new jobs; According to Site Selection GM Financial─expanding operations here, building a servicing magazine, each of the 689 center in San Antonio, a $20 million investment creating 490 jobs; business facility projects Facebook─building a data center in Fort Worth representing more completed in 2014 represents a than $500 million in capital investment and 40-plus full-time jobs; minimum investment of $1 million. GRI Renewable Industries of Spain─building a manufacturing Showing the breadth of these plant in Amarillo, a $41 million investment creating 300 new jobs; capital investments, Odessa, Amazon─building its fifth center in San Marcos, investing more Houston and Dallas were also than $400 million to date and creating over 3,500 jobs in the state; named among the top metro areas in the nation for facility growth. CGT U.S. Limited—constructing a new manufacturing facility in New Braunfels, an $80 million investment creating at least 275 jobs; And Houston ranks third in the nation, behind only New York Apple, Oracle, Google and Microsoft─expanding their corporate and Los Angeles, for minority- presence and jobs in Texas’ tech innovation corridor. owned startups.
EXPANDING THE ECONOMY SPOTLIGHT: We’re also connecting Texas To spur continuing job growth: WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES businesswomen to resources Women business owners are a through the Governor’s I restructured key divisions in powerful economic force, and my Commission for Women. my office to increase the focus on goal is to make Texas the most economic development. And I proudly approved $2.2 welcoming home for them. million in funding to establish a While Texas imposes no Women in business are looking for Center for Women in Business at personal or corporate income tax, the same opportunities as all Texas Woman’s University in we just cut taxes by nearly $4 entrepreneurs—more access to Denton to provide more of the billion to further stimulate job capital, fewer barriers to entry tools needed to succeed. creation and the Texas economy. and greater freedom to grow. We are also speeding up Texas offers more of those permitting processes and have growth opportunities. eliminated occupational licensing fees for more than 600,000 Texas professionals.
8 GOVERNOR GREG ABBOTT “Freedom is the intangible but very real promise of Texas that encourages businesses to grow here.”
Governor Abbott celebrating with members of the National Association of Women Business Owners at the national convention and gala in San Antonio. Sharing his bold vision for continuing innovation and job growth with the Greater Houston Partnership. Breaking ground on a new Facebook data center in Fort Worth to be powered by 100 percent renewable energy.
2016 REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 9 Education Gains Unlocking opportunity for more Texas children
Students learning exas public schools educate EDUCATION GAINS REPORT T more than 5.2 million students Because of our dedicated teachers in our classrooms in pre-kindergarten through 12th and involved parents, more of our grade—that’s more than 1 in 10 students are succeeding. of all public school students in today are more Four of the top 10 high schools the U.S. and the highest-ranked high than the future In just the last decade, enrollment school in the nation are in Texas, workforce of Texas. has grown 19 percent, and more according to U.S. News. than 17 percent of our students Our 88.3 percent on-time high They are also the future receive bilingual or English as a school graduation rate is at an Second Language instruction. job creators of America. all-time high, placing us in the top The gains we make here matter five nationally. not only for our children’s future, And notably, our Hispanic and but also for the nation’s. African-American students are That’s why I want our schools graduating at the second-highest to be the best in America. rate of their peers in all states. ► VIDEO LINKS: I want every child reading at As more of our students are Governor Abbott On The grade level by third grade. college-bound: Importance Of Early Education And I want every high school The number of Texas high diploma to truly certify a student is school students taking Advanced career-ready or college-ready. Placement exams has doubled,
“Teaching is more than just a job—it’s a calling and a commitment.” Governor Abbott visiting the School at St. George Place to present his education plan to Houston ISD leaders. Signing his gold-standard pre-kindergarten program into law. Celebrating the success of public charter schools with students, teachers and parents at a rally on the south steps of the Texas Capitol.
10 GOVERNOR GREG ABBOTT
“We must not rest. We must not relent. We can be No. 1 in education if we apply the same tenacity and commitment to education as we do to job creation.” Governor Abbott’s State of the State Address, February 2015
and they are more likely to qualify for college credit when compared to the national average. More of our students are also taking the SAT and ACT college entrance exams, including double- digit gains for the number of Hispanic and African-American students participating.
We’re also seeing encouraging gains by our elementary and middle school students. Texas students have jumped from 27th to 11th in the nation in “Your lives will not be defined by how you are challenged, but by how you respond to those challenges.” Governor Abbott congratulating the class of 2015 at his alma mater, fourth grade math in two years. Duncanville High School. (Photo courtesy of Duncanville ISD.) African-American students in Texas are second in the nation in teacher qualifications and parental Reading-to-Learn Academies fourth grade math; our Hispanic engagement measures. offer educators in grades 4 and 5 curriculum-focused teaching students are fourth. Reading Excellence Teams strategies to improve student Our students also exceed offer in-classroom skills coaching comprehension across subjects. the national average in eighth for K-3 reading teachers. And to increase transparency grade math. Literacy Achievement and give parents the information Academies provide intensive face- UNLOCKING MORE OPPORTUNITY they deserve, districts will provide to-face training in the summer To build a stronger early education A through F performance ratings with an innovative reading, writing foundation in reading and math, for each campus. and technology curriculum for we’re providing our educators with K-3 teachers. new resources. With parents, educators and Math and Technology communities working together, High-quality pre-kindergarten Achievement Academies offer we will build a foundation of increases per-student funding for advanced instruction for K-3 math excellence for all of our children. districts voluntarily adopting more teachers so our students can rigorous instruction guidelines, compete for the more than one million new STEM-related jobs.
2016 REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 11 Degrees of Success Learning to earn for the future
Texas colleges skilled, educated workforce Advanced Placement scores A is a competitive advantage— of 3 or higher earned in high school and universities as is a degree from one of the now qualify for college credit in leading institutions of higher Texas public colleges and are vital centers education in Texas. universities, saving students and families thousands in tuition costs. for developing HIGHER EDUCATION REPORT Core courses are now more More than 1.6 million students are consistently transferable between new knowledge, currently enrolled in Texas public institutions so students don’t colleges and universities. where groundbreaking waste time and money repeating innovations are born that With a sharpening focus on classes they’ve already passed. performance and outcomes, more drive our state’s economy Community college class than 2.6 million undergraduate and improve quality of life scheduling is now more credentials have been awarded predictable for students attending for all Texans. since 2000. part-time while working to pay Our six-year college graduation tuition—with morning, afternoon rate is at 60.5 percent, up from and evening class blocks. 49.6 percent in 2000. And to advance higher education Community college completion and fuel economic development: rates are up 179 percent; certificate awards have increased We are making a strategic 107 percent. investment of $450 million to ► VIDEO LINKS: elevate the national research And we’ve doubled enrollment standings of our public colleges Governor Abbott On Making Higher of Hispanic and African-American and universities. Education More Affordable students in Texas. Governor Abbott Elevates Higher This includes matching funds Education in Texas LEARNING TO EARN MORE from the new Governor’s University We need more students in Texas Research Initiative to help our advancing up the ladder of universities recruit even more success—whether the next step is Nobel Laureates and National career and technical training, a Academy members who will community college, the military or partner with the private sector to an academic degree program. develop ideas that transform the That’s why we passed laws that next generation. help more students graduate on time with less debt.
12 GOVERNOR GREG ABBOTT
“We must make college more affordable and accessible. We must better prepare our students for real-life workforce needs.” Governor Abbott’s State of the State Address, February 2015
SPOTLIGHT: 60x30TX ACCELERATED DEGREE PROGRAM FOR VETERANS The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s 60x30TX The new Veteran Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree program at Plan will also help take Texas to Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center is the future of higher the next level. education—offering online access, competency-based evaluation and By 2030, 60 percent of Texans credit for previous education and training. ages 25-34 will have earned a Started with a seed grant from the Texas Workforce Commission’s certificate or degree. Credit for Heroes program, the VBSN program will put medically All graduates from public experienced military veterans on a path to pursue a bachelor’s degree higher education institutions will in nursing without having to start over in training. have completed programs with If the rigorous training that military medics and corpsmen receive identified marketable skills. meets the standard of the U.S. military, it should be good enough for And undergraduate loan debt the State of Texas. will not exceed 60 percent of first- The fast-track 12-month degree program at Texas Tech addresses year wages for graduates of Texas three critical needs: public institutions. Creating career paths for returning veterans; But 60x30TX is about more than numbers. It’s about creating even Educating more Texans to address the nationwide nursing shortage; more opportunity for more Texans. Improving care for our veterans by working with clinical partners in When we meet these goals, Texas the VA health care system. will be the undisputed center for innovation and intellectual capital.
“Rivalries exist, but competition raises rankings—and our premier colleges and universities are working toward a singular goal: educating the future leaders of America.” Governor Abbott visiting with The University of Texas Longhorn Band in Austin. Signing the game-changing Governor’s University Research Initiative. Adopting Aggie spirit on the sidelines at Texas A&M University’s Kyle Field.
2016 REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 13 Honoring Our Veterans Serving those who served
America is the exans have long played a As our veterans transition to T powerful role in defending civilian life, we’ve also made it greatest force for this nation. Many have served, easier for them to open a business and many more have trained and and create new jobs in Texas. lived on military installations in freedom the world Occupational license and exam this state. fees are now waived for veterans has ever known Today, Texas is the proud home to with the required education, because of those who wear almost 2 million veterans, active training and practical experience. the uniform of the U.S. duty military, reserve and National New veteran-owned businesses Armed Forces. They have Guard members and their families. are now exempt from franchise been there to serve us; it is So important is the military’s taxes for the first five years. our turn to serve them. role in Texas, one of the first pieces of legislation I signed into Finally, we were often reminded law as governor was the Stolen this year that our freedom is not Valor Bill increasing the penalty for free. On behalf of all Texans, I was
presenting a fraudulent military privileged to: record in Texas. Declare Feb. 2 Chris Kyle Day No veteran should wait in line in honor of his service and that of for care. I called on Congress to his comrades in arms who have
pass legislation adding in-patient long defended our great nation; and urgent care facilities at the VA Attend the Purple Heart Health Care Center in Harlingen, ceremony at Fort Hood for victims ► RELATED NEWS: and I offered The University of of the 2009 terrorist attack; Governor Abbott Orders National Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Award the Lone Star Medal of Guard To Carry Guns On Base Medicine and its 15,000-square- Valor to retired Marine Sgt. foot Smart Hospital complex as a Office Of Governor Awards $15 Ronnie Reininger; Million To Texas Military force multiplier. Installations Present Texas Legislative To help our military heal their Medals of Honor to the families deepest wounds, mental health of U.S. Army Lt. Col. Ed Dyess and family support services will be and U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer offered locally in partnership with Chris Kyle; private providers. Present Texas Purple Hearts And because Texas is home to to Texas National Guard members more women veterans than any injured while serving. state, a Women Veterans Program has been created to improve As Texans, as Americans, we must access to benefits. recommit to serve all of those who have served.
14 GOVERNOR GREG ABBOTT “It is our duty to honor those whose sacrifice has preserved our freedom.”
Governor Abbott presenting a Texas Purple Heart to Pfc. Jose Romo of Pasadena, one of four Texas National Guard members injured in September by an improvised explosive device while serving in Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula. Presenting a Texas Legislative Medal of Honor for Chief Petty Officer Chris Kyle to his widow Taya Kyle. Meeting with members of the Greatest Generation outside the Texas Capitol following the 2015 Veterans Day parade.
2016 REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 15 Securing Texans Protecting against known and unknown threats
It is imperative for eeping Texans safe from ENFORCING SECURITY K threats to our security— As governor, I will not allow our the state to fulfill whether from within our porous border to go undefended. communities or from across the That is why we took these its most solemn border—is my top priority. measures this legislative session: responsibility: BORDER SECURITY REPORT We have nearly doubled border I warned the U.S. Department security funding to approximately protecting the safety of our of Homeland Security in $800 million. citizens and communities September about the significant We are accelerating the hiring while respecting individual increase in unaccompanied of 250 additional DPS troopers for rights and civil liberties. minors once again pouring across the border region. our border and challenging Texas’ We’re providing additional security and resources. ► RELATED NEWS: training and equipment for border The federal government Governor Abbott Directs DFPS To security and enforcement. compounded its negligence by Implement New Child Safety And we are giving prosecutors failing to give advance notice so Measures across the state more tools to state and local governments could crack down on criminal Governor Abbott Releases Texas prepare for the administration’s enterprises involved in human Homeland Security Strategic Plan unilateral decision to relocate trafficking and drug smuggling. Governor Abbott Announces State thousands of foreign nationals Refugee Act With Senator Ted Cruz in Texas.
“Texas is strong. When we work together, we’re even stronger.” Honoring fallen officers at the 2015 DPS Peace Officer Memorial Service. Governor Abbott signing Kari’s Law requiring direct dial of 9-1-1 from multi-line telephones. Briefing the public on state resources dispatched to disaster areas.
16 GOVERNOR GREG ABBOTT
“All of the men and women who protect and serve, and the families who stand by their side, deserve our deepest respect. They are the best of Texas.” Governor Abbott’s remarks at the Star of Texas Awards, September 2015
To stop the reach of gangs into our communities and schools, we’re expanding the Texas Anti- Gang Program across the state. And all state agencies are now required to use E-verify when hiring new employees.
I am also taking the following actions as governor to respond to the federal government’s inaction: Extending National Guard troop deployments at strategic locations on the border; “As the people of Texas and across America are enjoying their Christmas holiday, they Increasing the number of boats do so under the blanket of freedom you help to protect for this state and this nation every single day.” Governor Abbott sharing his thanks with Texas National Guard troops and tactical officers at strategic and their families in Weslaco during the holiday season. locations on the Rio Grande River, coordinating Texas Department of Public Safety and Texas Parks and Finally, to ensure compliance with And I am working with Wildlife Department resources; the rule of law and the safety of all Congress on the State Refugee Texas communities: Security Act giving governors tools Instructing DPS to increase to reject resettlements until Any sheriff's department that aerial observation missions to aid security screening improves. interdiction efforts; does not fully honor detention requests from Immigration and PREPARING COMMUNITIES Awarding grants to the Border Customs Enforcement will not be We are also helping communities Prosecution Unit and to local law eligible for grants from my office’s prepare for threats and hazards enforcement in the border region; Criminal Justice Division. that pose the greatest risk. And again urging Homeland I supported the Texas attorney We are awarding $57 million in Security to increase U.S. Border general’s decision to sue the homeland security preparedness Patrol agents in Texas. federal government to stop the grants to jurisdictions across the resettlement of any Syrian state for security planning, refugees because the federal organization, equipment, training government does not have the and exercises. necessary security screening precautions in place.
2016 REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 17 INCREASING PROTECTION images of a former partner Disaster declarations were To provide more protection for the without consent; issued for counties across the most vulnerable in our society, we: state to activate emergency And we are doing more to management plans and to help Awarded $165 million in address the tragedy of child sex secure federal recovery funds. criminal justice and victim services trafficking by building programs to grants to local law enforcement provide statewide coordination of And at the state level, we will agencies, domestic violence prevention activities and wrap- continue to assist with challenges shelters, child sex-trafficking around care for young survivors. faced from the flooding in victims programs and other Wimberley and beyond, to the fires governmental and nonprofit PROTECTING LAW ENFORCEMENT in Bastrop County, the severe agencies across Texas; To more adequately protect our winter weather in West and North law enforcement officials from Texas and the tornadoes that hit Strengthened Texas law acts of retaliation: across the state. against human smuggling; The dissemination of certain I want to thank our dedicated first United law enforcement, personal information of peace responders and local officials on prosecutors, medical professionals officers or their family members is the ground as well as all Texans and victim advocates at the local now an offense for interference for heeding warnings about the level by creating Domestic with public duties. dangers posed and for rushing in Violence High-Risk Teams; to help family, friends and Increased funding for Sexual DISASTER RESPONSE REPORT neighbors in the long recovery. Assault Nurse Examiners and for This was a challenging year as DNA testing of sexual assault kits; families and businesses across SPOTLIGHT: FIRST RESPONDERS the state faced devastating fires, In September, I had the privilege Made the online solicitation flooding, blizzards and tornadoes. of honoring 28 true Texas heroes of a minor a punishable offense; We mourn deeply the loss of life. and meeting their families at the Created civil and criminal We look for lessons learned. And Star of Texas Awards recognizing liability for “revenge porn,” the we will rebuild for the future. first responders killed or injured in disclosing of sexually explicit the line of duty. Those who are first to respond, to provide comfort and safety, to save lives at costs unknown, that is a special calling only the best can answer. I also called for a moment of silence on September 4 at 11 a.m. to honor the service of Harris County Deputy Darren Goforth, who was so cowardly murdered. Officers on patrol around the state also turned on their vehicles' flashing lights. The moment served as a reminder: For our law enforcement officers “Respect and pride in our law enforcement must be restored in this state and nation.” to stand in front of us and all Governor Abbott inviting law enforcement officers and Texans around the state to pause that threatens, we must stand for a moment of silence on September 4 honoring Harris County Deputy Darren Goforth. behind them.
18 GOVERNOR GREG ABBOTT Life and Liberty Preserving our freedoms
Life, liberty and ’m proud that no state does Taxpayer funding must be I more to preserve, protect and eliminated completely for any the pursuit of defend our God-given rights. abortion provider in Texas. PRESERVING LIFE And we must criminalize any happiness— We made significant strides this sale or transaction of fetal body session in further protecting parts or tissue in Texas by an these are more innocent life and the health and abortion clinic for any purpose. safety of vulnerable Texans. than just words. PRESERVING LIBERTY These are the story of Pregnant minors are now more Because Texans must be secure safeguarded from exploitation in in the knowledge that our America, of why we the judicial system. religious freedom is beyond the believe in America. Texans nearing the end of life reach of government or coercion have new protections for by the courts: continuing care. I signed the Pastor Protection Alternatives to Abortion Act ensuring clergy cannot be
program funding has been forced to violate their sincerely increased to $18 million. held religious beliefs. And Texas Women’s Health I instructed all state agencies to never pressure individuals or Program funding has been increased by $50 million to organizations into violating their provide more women with access First Amendment rights. ► RELATED NEWS: to family planning services and I supported the right of local annual exams at no cost. governments to publicly display Texas Eliminates Taxpayer Funding Nativity scenes and defended the To Planned Parenthood In the wake of the videos right of law enforcement in Texas Governor Greg Abbott And First exposing horrific abortion clinic to display the national motto, “In Lady Cecilia Abbott Receive Dignity practices, my LIFE Initiative called God We Trust,” on their patrol cars. In Life Award for immediate and ongoing action: And I’m proud we expanded We must make partial-birth Governor Abbott Sends Letter liberty in Texas: To BLM Director Over Federal abortion a felony in Texas; it must Land Grab also be illegal for doctors to risk Licensed Texans can openly a woman’s health by altering carry a holstered handgun in public. abortion procedures to preserve And licensed Texans can carry fetal body parts. concealed handguns on public We must expand adoption higher education campuses services and increase support for beginning August 2016. children and families at risk of abuse and neglect. 2016 REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 19 “Texas will continue to lead the nation in protecting innocent life.”
Governor Abbott gathering with state leaders and pastors from across Texas for the signing of the Pastor Protection Act preserving religious liberty. Hosting a ceremonial signing of a pro-life reform of the Texas Advanced Directives Act. Expanding Texans’ Second Amendment rights at the open carry bill signing.
20 GOVERNOR GREG ABBOTT Everyday Texans Growing from the strength of our people
Texas is and has he power of the Texas model decided to open his own doors, T comes not from the strength raising over $87,000 to install always been an of our government, but from the automatic door openers on campus. strength of our people. With a big dream and the exceptional state. Here are some of the extraordinary determination to achieve it, Archer Like America’s place in the everyday Texans we’ve been rose above the challenges he privileged to celebrate who make faced and proved that Texans— world, Texas stands out our state the envy of the nation. despite all obstacles—can do among the states as a anything they set their minds to. At 109 years old, Richard model for strength, Overton is a Texas treasure. “It just takes an idea and the guts individual liberty and In 1942, Richard enlisted in the to strive for it,” he said at the economic opportunity. U.S. military and served honorably unveiling of the new doors. in the Pacific Theater, defending Archer is now a student at The our nation at the height of World University of Texas, and I proudly War II. appointed him to the Governor’s Richard is a lifelong Texan and Committee on People with resides in the same home he Disabilities in September. purchased in Austin after returning Ten-year-old Savannah Solis of from the battlefield. Tyler made it her duty to give back When asked about the key to his to those who keep her and her long life, he responded in true family safe each and every day: Texas form: our law enforcement community. “You have to ask God about that. She made it her goal to speak for He brought me here and He’s her generation, writing countless taking care of me, and nothing I letters to law enforcement can do about it. I can talk about professionals across the country what He’s doing for me.” saying: We love and respect our police officers. Today, Richard is the second- oldest living World War II veteran Savannah delivered a letter to me, in the U.S. and I shared her powerful message with the Texas Police Archer Hadley represents the Chiefs Association in March. best of true Texas grit. Born with cerebral palsy, Archer Amid national scrutiny and has sought assistance opening criticism of law enforcement, doors his entire life. But as a Savannah’s message is an senior at Austin High School, he important reminder that we owe
2016 REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 21 eternal thanks to the men and providing individualized services APPOINTMENTS women who put their lives on the for residential properties. Because ours is a representative line protecting our communities. citizen government, my “We want to make sure we provide appointments team is constantly Lewisville firefighter Andy a quality product that will last long on the lookout for the most Allison ran to the rescue after we’ve gone,” Charmane said. talented and qualified individuals of a homeowner and wound up A 100 percent veteran- and to serve our state. needing to be rescued himself. woman-owned firm, Aleon Over 400 appointments were Battling a house fire, he was Properties is improving the lives of made in 2015 to state boards, driven to his knees as water from everyday Texans under commissions, councils and other his hose came in contact with a Charmane’s inspiring leadership. roles. The majority of these are live wire. The electrocution trauma volunteer positions, and I am was brutal and will challenge Andy TOURING TEXAS grateful to those outstanding the rest of his life. ot all of the answers are Texans for their service. Through two long years of burn N found within the walls of the treatments, surgeries and physical Texas Capitol. It is in our small CONSTITUENT CONTACTS therapy, Andy says it is his wife, towns and big cities where the Finally, I enjoyed the many Amanda, who is the real hero for secret to our state’s success lives: conversations with you in my first him and their two young sons. the hardworking people of Texas. year as governor. These included Andy was one of the 28 first My first visit as governor was to more than 150,000 calls, emails responders honored at the 2015 the Rio Grande Valley, a region and letters, plus social media Star of Texas Award ceremony. poised for the greatest growth. contacts online: By their service and sacrifice, they And while I frequently attended Total social media impressions have allowed Texas to continue events in our dynamic big cities, it 26,247,261 Facebook to shine as the Lone Star of our was often in traveling to the small 5,845,506 Twitter great nation. town downtowns, in talking to civic 75,122 YouTube views and business groups and in Charmane Sellers is more than Tweet you engaged with most meeting with everyday Texans just a businesswoman, she is a where I learned the most about RT if you’re excited Texan with a unique vision and #BlueBellisBack in #Texas. the bright future for Texas. passion for helping those in need. Small town stops included: Post you “Liked” most As president and CEO of Aleon Bastrop, Bryan, College Station, #Texas Governor's Mansion Properties, Inc., Charmane Galveston, Grapevine, Kilgore, illuminated blue for Law provides construction services for Killeen, Lake Jackson, Longview, Enforcement Appreciation Day. disabled Texans. Lubbock, McKinney, Mt. Pleasant, Post you engaged with most Both the Greater Austin Black Palestine, Pflugerville, Schertz, Today I sent a letter to President Chamber of Commerce and the Smithville, Weslaco, West, Wichita Obama informing him Texas will Governor’s Small Business Forum Falls and Wimberley. not accept any Syrian refugees. have honored Charmane for her And I was honored to speak innovative work in remodeling and Most viewed video with business chambers, students construction projects that help Governor Greg Abbott Unveils and teachers, law enforcement businesses comply with the Texas Plan and military associations and Americans with Disabilities Act in a many other groups across the cost-effective manner while also state and throughout the year.
22 GOVERNOR GREG ABBOTT “True strength of character is revealed when tested by adversity.”
“We’ve seen again and again the extraordinary resilience and strength of character of our Texas family.” Governor Abbott presenting a Star of Texas Award to Lewisville firefighter Andy Allison and his newborn son. Opening the National Veterans Wheelchair Games in Dallas. Celebrating WWII veteran Richard Overton’s 109th birthday in the Governor’s Mansion.
2016 REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 23 First Lady Cecilia Abbott’s Report Making the future even brighter
s Texans, we are all family. answered that call. We are A I learned that from a very appreciative of their service and early age growing up the daughter thankful that they are sharing so of two teachers in San Antonio. much of themselves to help their fellow Texans succeed. My family was my church, my neighborhood and my entire Exceeding Limits community. We looked after one In Houston I attended a Governor's another and tried to take care of Small Business Forum titled those in need. “Women Exceeding Limits.” I was That’s why I became a teacher pleased to present the 2015 and a principal. Governor’s Small Business Awards and honor all of the recipients. Who could have guessed where that path would lead—by my Texas is the best state for As First Lady, husband’s side as he serves as business, and women have been the 48th governor of Texas. leaders of that success. Women- owned businesses are crucial to I am so honored to It is such a joy to travel across this our economy and play a key role in great state to celebrate our many the future of Texas. serve the people blessings. I invite you to read a few of Texas. favorite posts from my blog about Congratulations to the winners, the Texans I’ve met who are and thank you for all that you do making the future even brighter. to make Texas the model for doing business. Honoring Volunteers Greg and I hosted an awards Visiting Wimberley ceremony at the Governor’s Just weeks after the deadly flood Mansion celebrating the 2015 along the Blanco River, Greg and I ► MORE FROM Governor’s Volunteer Awards. visited Wimberley. We were there THE FIRST LADY’S BLOG: to support the local economy and With the help of the OneStar spread the word that while this Visiting Van Foundation, we honored nine town and its residents sustained Helping Our Fellow Texans awardees from across Texas for heavy damage from the recent their significant contributions to Growing In The Garden flood, Wimberley has bounced their communities and their back and is open for business. Touring The Governor’s Mansion fellow Texans. We had the opportunity to meet I believe we are each called to many locals who exhibited such service, and these philanthropic strength and pride in their town. Texans have enthusiastically And I was so glad to have met
24 GOVERNOR GREG ABBOTT Texans from all across our state who were visiting Wimberley to shop and support the community as well as several Red Cross volunteers who were there to help with the ongoing recovery. While there is still work to be done, there’s no doubt this community is #WimberleyStrong.
Defending Innocent Life The St. John Paul II Life Center in Austin awarded Greg and me their 2015 Dignity in Life Award, and we were truly honored. I attended the 5th Annual Benefit Dinner and accepted the award on our behalf. Governor Abbott and the First Lady welcoming Governor’s Volunteer Award winners to a reception at the Governor’s Mansion. With the steadfast commitment of partners like the St. John Paul II Life Center, we will continue to Since 1981, every Texas First Lady our downtowns where the past, vigorously defend and protect has participated in this special present and future meet and a innocent life in Texas. tour celebrating and welcoming sense of community grows. the new communities designated Thank you to Ennis and Celebrating Communities as official Texas Main Street cities, Rosenberg—and cities and towns I had the privilege of visiting Ennis and it was my pleasure to continue all across the Lone Star State—for and Rosenberg for the Texas this grand tradition. helping to make Texas such an Historical Commission Texas Main From our busy urban centers to extraordinary place to call home. Street Program’s First Lady’s Tour. our treasured small towns, it is in
The First Lady honoring the Governor’s Small Business Award winners in Houston. Accepting the 2015 Dignity in Life award. With Governor Abbott and Pancake, the First Puppy and official greeter at the Governor’s Mansion.
2016 REPORT TO THE PEOPLE 25 Looking Ahead The Texas Plan: In defense of our liberties
As Americans, the he increasingly frequent 2. Require Congress to balance T departures from constitutional its budget. principles in our nation’s capital U.S. Constitution 3. Prohibit administrative are destroying the very foundation agencies—and the unelected on which this country was built. provides us with bureaucrats that staff them—from the ultimate We are succumbing to the caprice creating federal law. of man that our founders fought to 4. Prohibit administrative escape. The cure to these defense of our agencies—and the unelected problems will not come from bureaucrats that staff them—from Washington, D.C. Instead, the liberties. pre-empting state law. states must lead the way. Without the protection of 5. Allow a two-thirds majority of To do that I am adding another the rule of law, all that the states to override a U.S. item to the agenda for our next Supreme Court decision. we treasure can be taken legislative session in Texas. away by mere whim. 6. Require a seven-justice super- I want legislation authorizing majority vote for U.S. Supreme Texas to call for a convention Court decisions that invalidate a of states. democratically enacted law.
Dysfunction in Washington, D.C., 7. Restore the balance of power stems largely from the federal ► VIDEO LINKS: between the federal and state government’s refusal to follow the Governor Abbott Unveils governments by limiting the former U.S. Constitution. Texas Plan to the powers expressly delegated Congress routinely violates its to it in the Constitution. enumerated powers while taxing 8. Give state officials the power and spending its way from one to sue in federal court when financial crisis to another. federal officials overstep their The president exceeds his bounds. executive powers with heavy- 9. Allow a two-thirds majority of handed regulations. the states to override a federal law And the Supreme Court imposes or regulation. its policy views under the guise of I invite you to read my full plan judicial interpretation. and share your ideas at To restore the rule of law in gov.texas.gov. And I encourage America, I offer these nine you to contact your state constitutional amendments: legislators. 1. Prohibit Congress from “We the People” must restore the regulating activity that occurs rule of law to ensure greater wholly within one state. opportunity for all.
26 GOVERNOR GREG ABBOTT
“For too long Washington has tried to remake America in its image.
In Texas, we offer a different approach. We don’t put our trust in government. We put our trust in the people.
And I will make sure we keep it that way.”
Governor Abbott’s Inaugural Address, January 2015 Because of you, Texas is No. 1 in the nation.
Advanced Placement District: Irving ISD is the Fastest Growing Economies of Large Cities: Austin is National AP District of the Year for mid-sized districts, #1, Fort Worth is #3, Corpus Christi is #5, Houston is College Board #10, WalletHub.com Agricultural: Texas is #1 in cattle, cotton, hay, sheep, Fastest Growing Economies of Mid-Size Cities: goats, wool and mohair production. Odessa is #1, Frisco is #2, Midland is #3, College Best City for STEM Grads: Houston is #1, Austin is Station is #4, Killeen is #5, Round Rock is #7, No #4, Business Insider McKinney is #8, WalletHub.com Best City for Young Entrepreneurs: Austin is #1, Fastest Growing Economies of Small Cities: Mission Midland is #8, NerdWallet.com is #1, Bryan is #2, Edinburg is #3, Pharr is #5, Allen is Best City to Start a Career: Austin is #1, Houston is #6, WalletHub.com #6, Dallas is #10, Hubspot.com Industrial Development: Texas is #1, NAIOP Best State for Business: Texas is #1, Chief Research Foundation Executive, 11th year in a row Infrastructure: Texas is #1, Business Facilities Best State to Make a Living In: Texas is #1, Forbes Investments, Foreign and Domestic: Texas is #1, and MoneyRates.com IBM’s 2015 Global Location Trends Business Climate: Texas is #1, Business Facilities Job Growth, Private-Sector: Texas is #1 over the last Capital Investments: Texas is #1, 6th year since 10 years, BLS 2004, Site Selection Oil and Gas Production: Texas is #1 Economic Climate: Texas is #1, Forbes Population Growth: Texas is #1 for population growth, Economic Clout of Women Business Owners: 2000-2014, U.S. Census San Antonio is #1, Houston is #3, Dallas is #9, Small Business Friendliness: Texas is #1, American Express Thumbtack.com Exports: Texas is #1, 14th year in a row Tech Job Leaders: Austin is #1, Houston is #4, Farming/Ranching: Texas is #1 in the number of Business Facilities farms and ranches with 248,800 covering 130.2 Top Cities for Startups: Austin is #1, Houston is #8, million acres and more women- and minority-owned San Antonio is #10, Business Facilities farm operations. Top High School in the U.S.: School for the Talented Fastest Growing Cities: Houston is #1, Austin is #2, and Gifted in Dallas is #1, School of Science and Dallas is #3, Fort Worth is #8, San Antonio is #10, Engineering Magnet in Dallas is #5, Carnegie Forbes Vanguard High School in Houston is #6, Lamar Fastest Growing Economies, Overall: Odessa is #1, Academy in McAllen is #10, U.S. News Frisco is #2, Midland is #3, Mission is #4, College Wind and Natural Gas Growth: Texas is #1, Station is #5, Killeen is #6, Bryan is #8, Austin is #9, FuelFix.com Round Rock is #10, WalletHub.com
Office of the Governor | P.O. Box 12428 | Austin, Texas 78711 (512) 463-2000 (Voice) Dial 7-1-1 For Relay Services gov.texas.gov