On the opening day of the 82nd Texas Legislature, State Sen. Joan Huffman (R-Southside Place) yesterday took the oath of office for her second term.
Huffman’s expansive 17th senatorial district includes the eastern portions of the Katy area and extends into Houston to Bellaire and West University Place. The district also runs south through parts of Sugar Land and Missouri City and along the Texas coast from Freeport to Port Arthur.
Huffman called it “an honor to again serve the people of District 17 in the Texas Senate.” She also outlined her priorities for the legislative session.
“This session, I will be working to increase public safety and border security, protect free enterprise, strengthen private property owners’ rights, and reduce government waste,” Huffman said following her swearing-in. “Additionally, my work on the Senate Redistricting Committee will be a priority to ensure all voters have fair and legal representation.”
As vice chair of the Criminal Justice Committee, Huffman has been working with prosecutors throughout her district, as well as members of local law enforcement groups to identify problems that currently exist in the criminal justice system. She has filed several bills to make designed to address criminal justice needs, including legislation that would crack down on automobile burglary and prevent a criminal illegal alien from receiving probation.
“As a former prosecutor and judge, public safety remains one of my top concerns, and my goal is to serve as an advocate for law enforcement and homeland security initiatives,” Huffman said.
Additionally, Huffman said she will continue her work on improving the state’s healthcare services and educational programs. She has pre-filed legislation designed to reduce frivolous complaints against doctors while increasing patient confidentiality. Huffman will also be working to increase access to higher education in her role as vice chair of the Higher Education Committee.
“The 82nd Texas Legislature will be presented with many challenges and opportunities,” Huffman said. “In this tough economic environment, I look forward to working with my colleagues to find commonsense solutions that will control government spending while improving state operations and services.”
The 82nd Texas Legislature began its biennial 140-day session Tuesday.
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