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On Wednesday this week, the Texas Speaker of the House announced committee assignments. Although members have been working on issues throughout the interim and many bills have been filed, committee memberships must be assigned before the legislative process can really begin.
This session, I am honored to serve Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security & Public Safety. As chairman, I am responsible for setting the agenda for the Homeland Security & Public Safety hearings. The House Committee on Public Safety & Homeland Security has jurisdiction over issues pertaining to law enforcement; the prevention of crime and the apprehension of criminals; the provision of security services by private entities; homeland security, including: the defense of the state and nation, including terrorism response; and disaster mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery.
This is an exciting opportunity, as the committee is expected to take up important matters such as border security and second amendment issues. I am especially looking forward to finding a practical, effective, and fiscally responsible way to secure our border.
I also have been appointed to the House Committee on Transportation, which I chaired last session, and of which I have been a member since I was first elected. The Transportation Committee oversees the state highway system, control of traffic, commercial motor vehicles, rail, and water and air transportation systems. I look forward to continuing to guide transportation, which is so critical to the long-term economic success of this state.
My capitol office can be reached by calling 512-463-0297, or by writing to P.O. Box 2910, Austin, Texas, 78768. My office did not move this year and I am still in the original building in room 4N.5. I can also be reached by email at larry.phillips@house.state.tx.us. I encourage the citizens of District 62 (which includes Delta, Fannin, and Grayson counties) to come by the office when visiting Austin.
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