Tax Day is right around the corner, with April 15 quickly approaching. For some, it’s already checked off the list; for others, it may still be waiting for a final review. It’s one of those annual deadlines that seems to arrive faster each year, but a little preparation can make the process far more manageable. Here’s hoping it is smooth, straightforward, and perhaps even comes with a refund.
With that, here’s an update from your State Capitol…
Capitol Update
This week, we’re taking a closer look at another key House committee—the House Committee on Appropriations, which is responsible for writing and overseeing the state budget. Arguably one of the most important committees in the Texas House, its decisions impact nearly every area of state government and the day-to-day lives of Texans.
A large part of the committee’s work right now is making sure the funding decisions passed during the 89th Legislative Session are actually being carried out the way they were intended. That means keeping a close eye on how taxpayer dollars are being spent and making sure those investments are delivering real results for Texans.
One of the top priorities continues to be property tax relief—both maintaining what we’ve already passed and looking at ways to build on it. During the 89th Legislative Session alone, Texas delivered approximately $18 billion in property tax relief. For families and small businesses across East Texas, that’s about real, meaningful relief and keeping more money in your pocket.
A major focus this interim is making sure rural Texas is not overlooked when it comes to state investment. In many parts of East Texas, access to basic services looks very different than it does in larger cities, and that reality has to be reflected in how we allocate resources.
Public safety is a large part of that effort. The Legislature directed hundreds of millions of dollars toward public safety efforts last session, including funding for additional state troopers, improvements to driver license services, and support for rural law enforcement and prosecutors. These investments help ensure our communities remain safe while also supporting those who serve on the front lines.
Access to health care is another area where rural communities face unique challenges. During the 89th Legislative Session, more than $1 billion was directed toward strengthening health care access, including support for rural hospitals and providers. In many East Texas communities, that kind of investment makes a real difference in ensuring families can receive care closer to home.
Infrastructure is also front and center. Lawmakers committed $1 billion last session to jumpstart long-term investments in water infrastructure and supply. Alongside that, the state continues to monitor funding for flood mitigation and rail grade crossing improvements—projects that are critical not only for safety, but for supporting long-term growth in rural communities.
Beyond these immediate priorities, the Appropriations Committee is also looking ahead at opportunities to invest in infrastructure, technology, and workforce development. These discussions will help shape how Texas continues to grow while staying competitive and supporting communities across the state.
At the end of the day, this work is about making sure state government is focused on the right priorities—supporting working families, strengthening our communities, and making smart, responsible investments with taxpayer dollars.
As we continue through the interim, I’ll be working to ensure the voices of East Texans are heard and that our communities remain front and center as we prepare for the next legislative session.
The mobile office is on the road again in April, and our District Director looks forward to seeing you on the following dates, in the following locations: April 15 at the Houston County Courthouse Annex in Crockett from 9:30-11:30am, or at the Trinity County Courthouse in Groveton from 1:30-3:30pm.
As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office if we can help you in any way. My district office may be reached at (936) 634-2762 and my Capitol office may be reached at (512) 463-0508. Additionally, I welcome you to follow along on my Official Facebook Page, where I will be posting regular updates on what’s happening in your State Capitol and sharing information that could be useful to you and your family: https://www.facebook.com/RepTrentAshby/.
