“During Governor Greg Abbott’s State of the State address to the Texas Legislature today, the Governor provided strong guidance on what both chambers should prioritize during the 86th Legislative Session. Each of the emergency items set forth by the Governor are issues that citizens across Texas have asked for and want to see addressed by their lawmakers. By the Legislature addressing school finance reform and teacher pay, school safety, mental health care, property tax reform, and natural disaster preparedness and response before this session ends, we will provide meaningful change in the lives of all Texans. Texas House Republicans are ready to take up the Governor’s call and get to work on these priority issues.”

Today, House Bill 2 was filed by Texas House Republican Caucus Chairman Dustin Burrows, which is the first step in the legislative process to accomplish meaningful reform of the property tax system in Texas. During a historic press conference this morning, Governor Greg Abbott, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, House Speaker Dennis Bonnen, Senate Property Tax Committee Chairman Paul Bettencourt, and House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Dustin Burrows agreed property tax reform is a top priority of the state and identical companion bills have been filed in both chambers.

Today, Texas House Republican Caucus Chairman Dustin Burrows announced the appointment of Representative Jim Murphy as the Caucus Floor Leader for the 86th Legislative Session. Representative Murphy will be joined by the following members who will serve as Deputy Floor Leaders: John Raney, Kyle Biedermann, Cole Hefner, Justin Holland, Tony Tinderholt, and Bill Zedler.