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This week the 2nd Special Session of the 79th Legislature came to a close. With the end of this session, interim work begins. Although not in session, legislators continue to work throughout the interim, focusing on interim committee studies, constituent casework, and research for future legislation.
The Speaker of the House issues charges to each committee on subjects to be studied during the interim. Although the Speaker actually issues the charges, members of a committee will often submit suggestions on topics to be studied. Interim charges allow the legislature to determine what, if any, action is needed regarding a particular agency, issue, or existing law. For instance, the House Committee on Transportation, of which I am a member, might study Texas' port system, including its ability to meet the state's current and future needs. Once the committee has gathered information on each of the charges designated by the Speaker, the committee will issue a report. These reports may recommend legislation, a change in funding, or can simply serve as informative guidelines.
During the interim, my office continues to assist constituents with matters relating to state government. Requests from constituents range from wanting information about legislation that was passed during the session to assistance with a state agency. Some of the agencies I regularly contact on behalf of constituents are the Office of the Attorney General, the Department of Insurance, the Department of Criminal Justice, and the Public Utility Commission. My office can help constituents navigate through the sometimes-confusing bureaucracy of state government. The interim also allows me to attend many more events around the district, which I enjoy. Over the interim, I will meet with various groups to discuss legislation that was passed during the session. These meetings also give me the opportunity to hear constituents' opinions on a myriad of issues, and in turn allow me to prepare for the next legislative session.
In other news, Blake Moore has recently joined my staff as District Coordinator. Blake will be working with constituents and attending community events in Fannin and Grayson Counties. He is a graduate of Texas Tech University and most recently worked for Senator Robert Duncan of Lubbock in his district office and in Austin in the Senate Committee on State Affairs. You can contact Blake at my district office at 903/891-7297, or by writing to 421 N. Crockett, Sherman, TX, 75090.
I encourage you to contact me with your comments and suggestions or if I may be of assistance with any issues dealing with state agencies. You can reach me by writing to P.O. Box 2910, Austin, TX 78768-2910 or by e-mailing me at larry.phillips@house.state.tx.us.
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