Dear Friends,
Thank you for reading. As always, you may contact my office with your views via phone (512-463-0661) or mail (P.O. Box 2910, Austin, TX 78768). Here is what we have been up to these past two weeks in Austin.
Protecting Our Children from Dangerous Drivers
Last week, I laid out my bill, House Bill 4070, in front of the committee on Transportation. This bill enhances the criminal penalty associated with driving past or around a stopped school bus and harming someone. This will prevent Texas children from being put at risk by reckless drivers. Children getting hurt as they try to get on and off school buses happens far too often, and I hope that raising the penalty for this crime will deter drivers from continuing to put our children’s lives at risk.
Lone Star College LifePath Program Bill
Yesterday, the House of Representatives passed my bill that will allow Lone Star College to establish an occupational and life skills associate degree program at the colleges in their district. Currently, the LifePath program is available for students with certain disabilities to allow them to earn certificates in foundation occupational studies, business operations, or any certifications and licenses for a chosen field of study. My bill allows them to earn a special associate degree as well. This will help these students be even more marketable to employers. I am excited to have the opportunity to further support their educational path.
Easter Egg Hunt with the Governor
My family and I had the pleasure of joining Governor Greg Abbott at the Governor’s Mansion for an Easter Egg Hunt. We thank the Abbotts for hosting us. It was great to be able to celebrate Holy Thursday with my colleagues before we headed back to Cypress to rejoice on Easter.
My family and I with the First Lady of Texas, Cecilia Abbott, and her dog, Pancake.
Project Recovery Funding Applications
Project Recovery serves residents living within Harris County but outside Houston City Limits. They offer several programs to provide funding assistance to those affected by Harvey, 2015 and 2016 floods. To apply or learn more, go to www.harrisrecovery.org. Contact 832-927-4961 or e-mail RebuildHarris@csd.hctx.net with questions.
Hurricane Harvey Registry
The Hurricane Harvey Registry is an optional survey for those affected by Hurricane Harvey in any capacity or even those not affected. It just released its initial report that revealed the extent of Harvey’s impact on housing, debris, and physical and mental health. The report largely focuses on data collected in Harris County and seeks to provide ideas on the best ways to connect those who register with long-term recovery resources. To take the survey or read the initial report, go to harveyregistry.rice.edu.
Sincerely,
Dr. Tom Oliverson
Republican State Representative
House District 130
