Texans for Fiscal Responsibility Endorses Perry for Senate

LUBBOCK, TX – Today, Texans for Fiscal Responsibility (TFR) endorsed Rep. Charles Perry for State Senate, noting his leadership on fiscal issues and government reform.

“Charles Perry has been a strong, consistent advocate for west Texas and all Texas taxpayers,” said the president of TFR, Michael Quinn Sullivan. “From his promotion of zero-based budgeting to his focus on Medicaid reform, Charles Perry has worked to reform state government in keeping with the values and principles of his constituents. He has effectively used his experience as a CPA to save taxpayers’ money by exposing waste, fraud and abuse in government.”

First elected in 2010, Perry has a cumulative “A” rating on the Fiscal Responsibility Index and the distinction of ‘Taxpayer Champion’ from the organization.

“I am honored to be endorsed by Texans for Fiscal Responsibility,” said Perry. “Throughout my time in the House, I have worked hard to eliminate inefficiencies in government to ensure that taxpayer dollars are well spent. In the Senate, I will continue to stand strong for West Texas conservative values.”

Yesterday, fellow TFR ‘Taxpayer Champion’, Rep. Drew Springer (R – Muenster) endorsed Perry as well citing his conservative values and commitment to rural Texas. Springer represents 15 of the 51 counties within the Senate District.

Texans for Fiscal Responsibility joins Young Conservatives of Texas, Texas Right to Life, Texans for Lawsuit Reform, Conservative Republicans of Texas, Texas Home School Coalition and other conservative organizations in district and across the state in endorsing Charles Perry.

If you would like to learn more about Rep. Charles Perry or join the fight, please visit ElectCharlesPerry.com.

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Click here to download this press release.

TEXAS RIGHT TO LIFE ENDORSES REP. CHARLES PERRY FOR SD 28

LUBBOCK, TX – Today, Texas Right to Life, the oldest and most respected pro-life organization in the state, endorsed Rep. Charles Perry for Senate District 28.

“Charles Perry has a proven Pro-Life track record, and the voters of Senate District 28 should be confident that Charles keeps his campaign promises to protect life,” said Elizabeth Graham, Director of Texas Right to Life. “Charles Perry played a key role in 2011 in Texas Right to Life’s successful plan to remove millions of taxpayer funds from the abortion industry, and he has supported and co-authored all our bills to protect the unborn, including the landmark House Bill 2 from 2013. Charles advocates for patients and families’ rights to be restored in Texas hospitals.”

“Texas Right to Life PAC is proud to endorse Charles Perry’s election to the Texas Senate,” continued Graham. “Charles Perry is the only Pro-Life choice in the race, and he will continue to defend the right to life at every opportunity.”

After the previous Legislative Session, Rep. Perry received one of their highest scores for his pro-life voting record and dedication to the issue of life.

“It is an honor for Texas Right to Life to stand with me in this race,” said Perry. “. Sanctity of life is something you will never see me run from because it is God’s greatest gift. If I do nothing else in my legislative career, I will be able to rest easy knowing I helped pass legislation that will save millions of unborn lives.”

Texas Right to Life joins Young Conservatives of Texas, Texans for Lawsuit Reform, Conservative Republicans of Texas, Texas Home School Coalition and individuals and groups from across the district and state in endorsing Perry in this race.

If you would like to learn more about Rep. Charles Perry or join the fight, please visit ElectCharlesPerry.com.

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Download a copy of this release here.

Kicking This Senate Race Off Right!

Yesterday, I was blessed to kick off our campaign with over 300 supporters at the 50 Yard Line Steakhouse. (You can watch the highlights of my speech here.) It was very encouraging to have such strong support so early in this campaign.

The issues facing our state are great. From the immigration crisis on the border to solving our West Texas water issues to protecting unborn life, Senate District 28 needs to elect a conservative with the knowledge and experience necessary to tackle tough issues head on.

With a September 9th expedited election date, we need your help. We are only 26 days away from Early Voting, so it is critical we waste no time. Can you commit to assisting the campaign in one or more of the following ways?

1. Contribute $10, $20 or even $100 today toward travel and advertising — donate here .
2. Assist our campaign with block walking neighborhoods, phone banking, or by volunteering in another capacity.
3. Suggest contacts for our campaign to reach out to in any of the 51 counties that make up Senate District 28. Contact our campaign here.

Watch the the announcement speech here.

Without your support, our campaign would not have been able to make it this far. Please help us cross the finish line strong by volunteering or making a campaign contribution today.

Thank you and God Bless

Perry’s Capitol Press – April 2013

Lubbock Area Republican Women at the Capitol

was very honored to have the Lubbock Area Republican Women at the Capitol on April 18th, as part of the Texas Federation of Republican Women Day at the Capitol. Additionally, on Friday Lubbock was unanimously awarded the bid for the 2015 TFRW Convention. Congratulations to the Lubbock ladies!

West, Texas

Today is the memorial service for those who lost their lives during the explosion in West, Texas last week. My thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones who are mourning the loss of life. I urge you to visit the Facebook page “Prayers for West” to find out ways to help the community rebuild.

National Day of Prayer

May 2, 2013 is the National Day of Prayer and there will be celebrations across the state. I am honored to have been asked to pray for business during the Capitol event on the South Steps at noon. For more information please visit: www.texasndp.org.

Get Involved in the Process

Would you support using a portion of the Rainy Day Fund to fund water and transportation projects?

district83.perry@house.state.tx.us Facebook: Charles Perry (512) 463-0542 or (806) 783-9934

Sites of the District

Being in Austin for session makes me realize how proud I am to be from the South Plains and how much I miss home.

Send, Tweet or Facebook us your favorite picture of the district for a chance to be featured in the next newsletter.

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House Bill 2394 

Today, April 25, 2013, HB 2394 passed through the House on the Local & Consent Calendar. Right now, there is inconsistency because current law does not require all trailers, semitrailers, and travel trailers that are not manufactured housing to be titled. This has resulted in serious problems statewide, including theft and loss of revenue. My bill seeks to provide better understanding of the time and resources that would be necessary to title all trailers, semitrailers, and travel trailers by requiring Texas DMV to conduct an interim study.

House Bill 97 & House Joint Resolution 24

On April 22, 2013, I laid out HB 97 and HJR 24 in the Committee on Ways and Means. Across the state homes are donated by charitable organizations looking to help out returning soldiers who have sustained injuries serving our country. An unintended consequence is that veterans are having these donated homes foreclosed on because of the inability to pay property taxes. These two bills create a property tax exemption for veterans living in a home donated by a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Under current law, only veterans with a disability rating of 100% receive a property tax exemption. These bills are aimed at reducing the tax burden on veterans by granting them a property tax exemption tied to their disability rating.

House Joint Resolution 111

This week, I had the opportunity to layout House Joint Resolution 111 in the Appropriations Subcommittee on Budget Transparency and Reform. HJR 111 will maintain the integrity of the Economic Stabilization Fund, also known as the Rainy Day Fund, by requiring a minimum balance of 5 percent of the Biennial Revenue Estimate, as provided by the Comptroller. HJR 111 will ensure Texans have money in reserve to protect against natural disasters and keep our credit rating strong. We need to be thinking long-term in preserving our ability to pay our bills should we face another downturn in the economy. Financial investors have long prescribed having a savings account, and Texas does with the Rainy Day Fund, this resolution ensures we protect it.

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Download a pdf of here.

Perry’s Capitol Press – April 2013

Taxpayer Protection Act – House Bill 3785 by Representative Perry

On April 17, 2013, I laid out HB 3785 in the Select Committee on Federalism & Fiscal Responsibility. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act will be in place soon and will penalize citizens for failure to pay taxes. This bill protects taxpayers by providing the ability to claim non-liability for unlawful federal taxes and establishes a Class B misdemeanor offense for the attempted execution of a federal tax lien or levy on a taxpayer. The Secretary of State serves as the official responsible for handling these claims and administering the process of determining whether or not a federal tax lien or levy can be carried out.

Staying Informed

You can track bills of interest online at www.capitol.state.tx.us. There are two methods for creating a personal list of bills for tracking purposes. The bill list feature is accessible from the My TLO page. A bill alert system allows bill tracking with the added capability of receiving notification when actions change.

Get Involved in the Process

One of the major topics of discussion this session has been how to fund transportation projects throughout the state, one of the proposed solutions is raising the fees on
vehicle registrations and titles.

How do you feel about raising fees to fund statewide transportation projects?

Email: district83.perry@house.state.tx.us Facebook: ElectCharlesPerry Twitter: @electcharles

Legislation in Committee Next Week 

The following bills will be heard in committee next week. To see a full schedule of upcoming meetings or to learn how to testify at a hearing please visit: http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/Committees/MeetingsHouse.aspx.

★ House Bill 1673 – Hearing in the Committee on Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence on Monday, April 22, 2013. In the 1970s, Texas enacted a system of no-fault divorce which was followed by significant increases in the both the rate and number of divorces. To decrease the high rate of divorce and to encourage the development of strong marriages and healthy families, some states have created the option of entering into a covenant marriage. Covenant marriages provide greater protection for couples facing the inevitable challenges of married life. To enter a covenant marriage a couple must participate in pre-marital counseling to prepare for the commitment of marriage. Covenant marriage also requires couples to seek reconciliatory counseling prior to a divorce, however, if family violence is reported the Judge may expedite the filing.

★ House Bill 97 & House Joint Resolution 111 – Hearing in the Committee on Ways and Means on Monday, April 22, 2013. Across the state homes are donated by charitable organizations looking to help out returning soldiers who have sustained injuries serving our country. An unintended consequence are veterans are having donated homes foreclosed on because of the inability to pay property taxes. This bill creates a property tax exemption for veterans living in a home donated by a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Under current law, only veterans with a disability rating of 100% receive a property tax exemption. This bill is aimed at reducing the tax burden on veterans by granting them a property tax exemption tied to their disability rating.

Guest Column in the Texas Tribune: Texas Doesn’t Need Rainy Day Money Yet 

Texans are asking the wrong question when it comes to financing the state water plan. It’s not “if,” but “when and by what means?” The passage of House Bill 4 solidified the Legislature’s promise to make the implementation of water infrastructure a priority this session. This legislation does just that by establishing the framework to implement and administer House Bill 11’s one-time $2 billion appropriation for funding specific water projects throughout the state.

Now, to be clear, this is not a debate on having a water plan. It’s a discussion on the best way to fund our water needs while protecting the state’s financial stability.

The need for the actual funding is estimated to be more than a year away since so many pieces of HB 4 have to be put in place before a dime can be spent. So what does all this mean? The House budget is within $680 million of the constitutional spending cap, with several initiatives requiring budget dollars waiting to come to fruition. The estimated $2 billion to be transferred from the Economic Stabilization Fund, better known as Rainy Day Fund, would force a vote on busting that spending cap, which requires simple majority vote in the House. Since the need for actual funding is more than a year away, this does not make sense.

The Legislature should follow the constitutional rules that keep state government living within its means. Overriding or intentionally disregarding the spending cap, which enforces responsible fiscal stewardship of taxpayer dollars, would set a dangerous precedent. It would also send a message that the rules only apply when they are convenient.

The prudent course would be to defer the actual funding of the water plan until all governance and oversight processes of HB 4 have been developed, ensuring that the dollars to be spent will be properly accounted for. The transfer of money from the RDF for the sake of political posturing — “doing something for the sake of doing something” — has to be set aside in the name of common sense. Caution needs to be exercised before the actual dollars are released.

If we wait until 2015 to fund the water plan, the next Legislature can appropriate the necessary $2 billion, either from the RDF or some other funding option that may become available. For example, there might be general revenue in excess of the budget revenue estimate used to write the 2014-15 budget. Setting political posturing aside and using common sense in this situation could yield options that may become available with time, and allows the Legislature to keep the rules in place that keep Texas among the top economic performing states in the union.

I think Texans would agree — let the need drive the timing.

I had the opportunity to write an Op-Ed for the Texas Tribune this week on using the Economic Stabilization Fund (the Rainy Day Fund) for funding the state water plan. Article here: http://www.texastribune.org/2013/04/16/guest-column-texas-doesnt-need- rainy-day-money-yet/.

Choose Life Grant Program 

The Office of the Attorney General is pleased to announce that it is accepting applications for the Choose Life Grant Program. Funded by the sale of Choose Life specialty license plates, the Choose Life Grant Program was established by the Texas Legislature to raise funds for the promotion of adoption in the State of Texas.

To find out more about the Choose Life Grant Program, click on the image below:

To access the Request for Applications and the Application Kit, please visit the Texas Attorney General’s website.

Choose Life Grant Program Purpose Areas

Grant contracts awarded under this Choose Life Grant Program Application Kit may be used to:

• provide for the material needs of pregnant women who are considering placing their children for adoption, including theprovision of clothing, housing, prenatal care, food, utilities, and transportation;
• provide for the needs of infants who are awaiting placement with adoptive parents;
• provide training and advertising relating to adoption;
• provide pre-adoption counseling; and
• provide post-adoption counseling.Timeline:

• April 19, 2013 – Request for Applications (RFA) and Application Kit posted and available for the Choose Life GrantProgram.
• May 17, 2013 – Applications due at 5:00 p.m. Central Daylight Time (CDT). Specific submission instructions are in theApplication Kit.
• July 2013 – OAG will notify Applicants of its decision regarding grant awards.If you have any questions about the grant application process, email grants@texasattorneygeneral.gov or call (512) 936-1278.

  You are encouraged to share this grant application notice and the Texas Attorney General’s website with other organizations that may be interested in applying for the Choose Life Grant Program funding.

Rep. Perry Files Legislation to Maintain the Rainy Day Fund

Austin, TX: State Representative Charles Perry (R-Lubbock) filed House Joint Resolution 111 which will maintain the integrity of the Economic Stabilization Fund, also known as the Rainy Day Fund, by requiring a minimum balance of 5% of the Biennial Revenue Estimate, as provided by the Comptroller. Rep. Perry issued the following statement:

“HJR 111 will ensure Texans have money in reserve to protect against natural disasters and keep our credit rating strong. We should be thinking, long-term in preserving our ability to pay our bills should we face another downturn in the economy. Financial investors have long prescribed having a savings account, and Texas does with the Rainy Day Fund. This resolution ensures we protect it.”

The Economic Stabilization Fund or “Rainy Day Fund” was enacted in 1989 as a savings account for the state built primarily from excess oil and gas revenues and surplus state revenues.

March Legislative Update

Dear Friends,

CHARLES PERRY

STATE REPRESENTATIVE

DISTRICT OFFICE

11003 QUAKER AVENUE, SUITE 101 LUBBOCK, TEXAS 79424
(806) 783-9934
FAX (806) 783-9738 DISTRICT83.PERRY@HOUSE.STATE.TX.US

TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

The second month of session has come and gone and what a difference from the last session. There is a general attitude of solution seeking rather than passing the buck. Texas’ economy is doing well and has provided some much needed funding to deal with how core services are provided.

Technological upgrades are scattered throughout the agencies budget requests. Requests continued to be centered on modernization of the state’s data resources to improve the delivery of service to the taxpayer. A few examples come to mind: The Railroad commission requested $22 million to upgrade an antiquated legacy technology to better improve the largest economic driving force in our states economy. HHSC is still implementing technology to capture fraud and abuse in the Medicaid system. Synergy among agencies data bases will continue to be my focus for more efficient delivery of government services.

March 8th marked the deadline for filing legislation, and I have several bills regarding government efficiency reforms, fiscal responsibility, traditional family values, victim rights, gun legislation and the protection of life.

Water, transportation and education continue to be the primary focus and debate amongst the members. Several bills regarding significant and needed changes regarding the education’s accountability system and providing alternative paths for career and technology have been discussed. Water funding has captivated the discussion of every member in the house. Transportation funding and the amount needed continues to be one of the most divisive and illusive issue. In my legislative update next week I will be discussing these issues in depth.

The House Sergeant-at-Arms Office provides an Honorary Page Program which allows grade school children to participate during session when sponsored by a member. If you are interested in participating, please contact my Capitol Office at (512) 463-0542.

Thank you for taking the time to read my legislative update. I look forward to hearing from you during the last days of session on issues that are most important to you. My office contact information is below and my staff and I are always available to help with any questions or concerns you may have.

Jacklyn and I would like to wish you and your family the best for a safe and Happy Easter!

Sincerely yours,

Charles Perry
State Representative–House District 83

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District Support for HB 899

Pam Alexander (Executive Director, Lubbock Victim Assistance Services) and Matt Powell (Lubbock County District Attorney) testified to the House Committee on Criminal Jurisprudence in support of my Victims Rights Bill. HB 899 will allow the close relative or guardian of a victim to decline to be contacted by the defendant or defendant’s attorney’s victim outreach specialist.

The hearing didn’t begin until after 9 PM due of the high volume of amendments on the House Calendar. I am incredibly grateful that Pam and Matt were in for the long haul and stayed to talk about this important measure.

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Thoughts on Federal Overreach in Texas

Washington DC continues to attack fossil fuels and individual liberties; and their overreach continues to be a perpetual drain on state resources.

The federal government’s inability to balance their budget continues to place a cloud of uncertainty around the Texas state budget. This uncertainty is real and must be considered as we go throughout this session.

Texas has risen to accept these challenges and we will continue on with that mindset.

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House District 83 Visits the Capitol

March 20th was Texas Retired Teachers Day at the Capitol. Educators from across the state were here advocating on their priority issues for session. I had the opportunity to meet with the group in town from House District 83 about funding for TRS and current bills of interest.

After being snowed in, the Lubbock Chamber finally made it to Austin on March 26th for Chamber Day at the Capitol. Representative Frullo and I recognized them on the House Floor.

Also on the 26th, we honored the life of Steve Jones and the contributions he made to the South Plains. His wife, Patti and their two sons, Chad and Casey were able to be on the House Floor for this special event.

Upcoming Honorary Pages: Angela Sanchez from Brownfield; Rachel & Cole Beckmeyer from Colorado City.

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Hearing for HB 1421

On Thursday March 21st, I laid out HB 1421 to the Committee on Homeland Security & Public Safety.

Under current law in the act of offense involving a firearm, law enforcement agencies confiscate and hold firearms until a magistrate makes a ruling. If found not guilty, the firearm may be returned within a specified time to the rightful owner. In cases where the return of the weapon is prohibited, the magistrate has three options: order the firearm to be destroyed, forfeit to the state for use by the law enforcement agency holding the weapon, or donate to a county forensic laboratory.

This bill adds the option to sell firearms strictly to licensed firearm dealers under Federal Statute 18 U.S.C. Section 923. Proceeds from the sale of a seized firearm under this bill shall be transferred back to the law enforcement agency in possession of the firearm minus costs associated with the sale of the weapon.

HB 1421 was unanimously reported out of the committee. It will now be sent to Calendars to be set to be heard on the House Floor.

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Update On Legislation Filed

HB 97 & HJR 24 Disabled veterans receiving a constructed home donated by a 501(c) organization would receive a tax credit in proportion to their disability. Referred to Ways & Means on 2/5.

HB 98 Zero-based budgeting bill that will require agencies during the budget process to evaluate from zero the core functions and resources needed to perform those functions. Referred to Appropriations on 2/5.

HB 1539 Provides that a health care provider cannot withhold life sustaining measures (i.e. nutrition and hydration) due to economic costs or disability. Referred to Public Health on 2/26.

HB 1673 Provides the option of entering a voluntary covenant between a man and women reaffirming their intent to a life-long commitment in marriage. Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence on 3/4.

HB 1749 Will allow for committees to meet via tele-conferencing, reducing unnecessary travel costs. Referred to Government Efficiency & Reform on 3/11.

HJR 49 A common sense solution that will set the boundaries for budget appropriations to population plus inflation growth. Referred to Appropriations on 2/7.

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Committee Work: Appropriations

Last Thursday afternoon the House Committee on Appropriations voted out Senate Bill 1 unanimously.

All the members of the committee put in long hours working to make this bill equitable while still remaining to be good fiscal stewards of tax payer dollars.

The House approved $40.7 billion dollars in all funds directed to education, an additional $1 billion dollars was added compared to the Senate Budget amount.

The appropriations bill must still go to the house for a vote.

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Download a pdf of this update here.

Statement from Representative Perry Regarding Committee Appointments

Austin, TX: Texas House Speaker Joe Straus announced the committee assignments for the 83rd

Legislative Session. Representative Charles Perry (R-Lubbock) will be serving on:

• House Committee on Appropriations
• Vice-Chair, House Committee on Government Efficiency and Reform
• Select Committee on Transparency in State Agency OperationsRepresentative Perry issued the following statement:

  “I want to thank Speaker Joe Straus for the trust he has placed in me and will continue working alongside him and the rest of the members to ensure the state’s priorities are met during this session. The Appropriations Committee has jurisdiction over all bills and resolutions appropriating money from the state treasury. I look forward to working with the other members to ensure that as legislators we are fulfilling our obligation to be responsible stewards of our states finite resources. As Vice-Chair of Government Efficiency and Reform, I will be able to continue working on solutions to make our government more fiscally responsible and transparent. The Select Committee on Transparency in State Agency Operations was created by Speaker Straus to oversee transparency in the reporting of financial transactions of judicial and executive state agencies and affiliated entities. Serving on this committee will allow us to further the pursuit of increased transparency so that Texans can hold their government accountable.

  I’m pleased to see the diversity of the West Texas delegation committee assignments. These assignments will allow us to best represent the conservative values that prevail in West Texas. I look forward to continuing to make House District 83 an even better place to live, work and raise a family through my role on these important committees.”

January 2013 Newsletter

Dear Friends,

The 83rd Session of the Texas Legislature has begun, and the process of balancing the state’s needs and resources is moving forward. We are blessed to live in a state with an abundance of natural resources, combined with a fiscally conservative governance model continues to set Texas apart from other states. Texas continues to lead the country in job, population and economic growth. As legislators we have an obligation to be responsible stewards of the finite resources while also rising to meet the challenges that are inherent with population growth.

I have filed several bills since pre-filling began on November 12th and plan to file several more. I am in the process of working on several bills I plan to file in the

coming days that focus on 2nd Amendment rights, a review of Medicaid and the entitlement process, victims advocacy, government transparency, and more fiscal controls.

I thank you for taking the time to read my bi-monthly update and look forward to hearing from you in the coming months on issues that are most important to you. My office contact information is below and my staff and I are always available to help with any questions or concerns you may have.

Sincerely yours,

Charles Perry
State Representative House District 83

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COMMITTEE UPDATE

Legislators have turned in committee cards and will be waiting on the Speakers Office to select committee assignments.

The Role of Committees

The size of the legislature and the volume of work confronting it each session make thoughtful deliberation on all proposed measures by the entire membership a difficult task.

For this reason, the basic business in both chambers is conducted according to the committee system.

Committees are created in the rules of procedure of the respective chambers to consider introduced bills and to advise on their disposition. A large number of bills are never reported out of committee. Thus, committee action is the first crucial step in the process by which a bill becomes law.

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LEGISLATIVE AGENDA 

My focus for the 83rd is continuing to work on common sense solutions for the challenges the state faces, not just for today but for 20 years from now. Changing entitlement, pushing back federal overreach, and protecting our individual rights including the innocent, unborn and infirmed is a gradual process. Accordingly, the legislation I file will reflect the process needed to achieve these goals. To date the bills I have filed cover a myriad of issues for my district and an overall more fiscal and transparent government.

★ How can I track a bill? Up-to-date information about bills from the current session can be accessed through the Texas Legislature Online website (www.legis.state.tx.us).

LEGISLATION FILED

H.B. 97

Relating to exemption from ad valorem taxation of the residence homesteads of certain partially disabled veterans.

H.B. 98

Relating to the use of zero-based budgeting.

H.B. 99

Relating to the Teachers Retirement System state contribution rate.

H.B. 228

Population plus inflation growth cap on appropriations.

H.B. 249

Drug testing persons seeking state and federal assistance.

H.J.R. 24

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for an exemption from ad valorem taxation of part of the market value of the residence homestead of a partially disabled veteran or the surviving spouse of a partially disabled veteran if the residence homestead was donated to the disabled veteran by a charitable organization.

H.J.R. 49

Constitutional amendment for H.B. 228.

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THE ISSUES THAT MATTER

Texas’ Budget

There is a consensus in the House that water, education curriculum reforms, public education accountability system and a more transparent budget must be a top priority. In the initial house budget, public school growth of an estimated 180,000 students was funded as well as the projected Medicaid growth. The budget projections that have been released reflect an additional $8 billion in receipts over what was projected last biennium. However, it is important to note that the additional money was spent on prior session carryovers: $4.5 billion on Medicaid costs, $1.8 billion in public education deferral, a portion

to fires due to drought and some on additional funds needed to reconcile unintended consequences associated with health care legislation in advance of the Affordable Care Act. Thus, the additional receipts are already spent, but it also means that Texas should be able to leave the session with a budget that stands on its own merits without any accounting gimmicks into the next session.

Statewide Water Plan

The discussion of water will be three fold:

‣ Funding. Current proposals are centered around putting seed money into an evergreen fund that will be accessed by

municipalities to develop water resources and redo aging infrastructure.

‣ Private Property Rights. Acknowledgement of who owns the water and the amount of compensation due for the use of the same.

‣Who, What & How. Determining who gets to access to the seed money.

It is important to ensure adequate water projects meet demand but we also must protect property owners inherent rights. Additionally, I will be involved in ongoing discussion regarding the process for picking water projects to ensure it is fair and equitable.

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CAPITOL INFORMATION 

LANNING A CAPITOL TOUR

The Capitol Information and Guide Service is located in the restored Treasurer’s Business Office on the first floor of the Capitol. Free Capitol tours are conducted daily beginning in the Capitol South Foyer and concluding in the Capitol Extension. This tour features the Capitol, Texas history, and the Texas legislature.

Tours are generally 45 minutes in length and are available during the following times:

Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm Saturday, 9:30 am – 3:30 pm Sunday, Noon – 3:30 pm

Capitol tours are conducted daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and Easter.

Reservations for groups of 10 or more should be made in advance by calling 512.305.8400.

When booking your tour, please advise us of any special needs so we may make proper accommodations for your visit.

Special group tours are also available through the Capitol Visitors Center, the Texas State History Museum, and the Governor’s Mansion.

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UPCOMING EVENTS

• ★  February 20th, 2013: Texas Tech Day at the Capitol
• ★  February 26th, 2013: Lubbock Chamber Day at the Capitol
• ★  Friday, March 8th, 2013: (60th day) Deadline for filing bills and joint resolutions other than local bills, emergency appropriations, and bills that have been declared an emergency by the governor [House Rule 8, Sec. 8; Senate Rules 7.07(b) and 10.01]
• ★  Monday, May 27th, 2013: (140th day) Last day of 83rd Regular Session; corrections only in house and senate [Sec. 24(b), Art. III, Texas Constitution]

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Download a pdf here.

Fall Newsletter 2012

Dear Friends,

For the past two years I have had the honor of representing House District 83, and while district lines have changed, our shared values have not. There is no question, I was ranked the third most conservative member in the House because I stood for fiscal responsibility, limited government, common sense solutions, and the conservative and Christian values that still prevail in West Texas. This will never change and neither will my reasons for serving, I want to do something to make our home an even better place to live, work, and raise a family.

As a freshman member, I was part of one of the most challenging and difficult sessions in the history of our state. The budgetary challenges we confronted called for us to make tough decisions, prioritizing limited resources among those who deserve them most is a heart-wrenching process, but those decisions have laid the groundwork for what we will be able to accomplish in 2013.

Despite the despair that swept through conservatives on November 6th, 2012–watching a president win re-election who strives to strip us of our freedoms with bigger government–Texas will continue to stay on track. Throughout some of the worst economic times our country has ever experienced, Texas has been a beacon of strength and growth, a state that cannot only survive but thrive. Our conservative and fiscally responsible policies like tort reform, low tax burdens, and limited government have kept Texas as one of the best places for business and family.

The 83rd Legislative Session will have many challenges, the biggest being growth in population, but it will also be one of vision and solutions, not just for the problems of today, but for the 20-year challenges that face the state of Texas. I have spent the interim meeting and working with educators, farmers, state leaders, stake holders and small business owners on initiatives that reflect the priorities of West Texas:

• ·  Creating an equitable funding system for public education, which in my opinion includes: per capita allocations, local control, and regional sharing of resources.
• ·  Reform Medicaid and entitlement programs because, without reform the state’s budget will be consumed by this area within our lifetime. I have spent the interim following-up on technology solutions I presented last session. The implementation is in progress.
• ·  Curriculum reforms that enhance career and technology programs and allow for partnerships with private businesses.
• ·  Develop an accountability system in our schools to allow teachers to teach and students to learn.
• ·  Securing long-term water funding needs for the state.Texas remains a strong conservative state with principled leaders who know the value of hard work. We have showed time and time again that we don’t need Washington D.C. and their irresponsible and unconstitutional policies, Texans know what is best for Texas. Despite national elections, Texans reaffirmed their values at the polls and made their priorities clear with those they chose to represent them.While the outcome of this election was not pro Texas, and the fight to keep Washington D.C. out is far from over, we cannot be discouraged. The spirit of Texas–the heart and soul of our state, every honest and hardworking person from the Panhandle to the Gulf–will always prevail. My priority remains serving House District 83, this state, and this nation.I cannot say thank you enough for the support everyone has given me, I am looking forward to continuing to work together as we start next session. My office is always open, please don’t hesitate to get in touch if there is something I can help with or if you have comments on legislation.

  Sincerely yours,

  Charles Perry

  State Representative–House District 83

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NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: CATHERINE RODMAN NOVEMBER 12, 2012 (512) 463-0542

REP. CHARLES PERRY TO SERVE ON SEQUESTRATION COMMITTEE

Lubbock, TX: State Representative Charles Perry (R-Lubbock) has been appointed to serve on the Interim Committee on Texas Response to Federal Sequestration. Texas House Speaker Joe Straus created the committee to recommend ways that the state can prepare for looming tax increases and spending reductions caused by gridlock in Washington D.C..

The impending sequestration process poses several threats to Texas. It has the potential to trigger across-the-board reductions in defense and non-defense spending, and if an agreement to avoid sequestration is not reached, large increases in federal taxes.

“The federal government is a clear threat to Texas’ prosperity,” said Representative Perry. “We must identify ways to protect ourselves from the Obama administration that believes it has a mandate to raise our taxes, cut our energy production, and continue to take over our healthcare services.”

The Committee will study and develop legislative proposals on how the sequestration process will affect the defense industry in Texas, the state budget, public and higher education and the tax burden on Texas families and businesses. The Committee will report its findings to Speaker Straus by January 7th, 2013 and will expire at the start of the 83rd Session.

“My background as a CPA gives me a unique advantage to offer perspective and policy that will help Texas find a responsible path away from dependence on a process outside of Texas control,” Representative Perry further stated. “No matter what type of tax – federal, state, sales, income, property or consumption – it is the individual taxpayer that pays the tax. The only plans we are seeing from Washington D.C. are to further overburden local small businesses and working families with a tax policy that fails to spread the tax burden over all Americans by continuing an assault on the middle class. It’s time for Texas to stand up and say no, I am confident we will meet this challenge with hard work and determination.”

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BILLS FILL SO FAR FOR THE 83RD

Prefiling of legislation for the 83rd Legislature began Monday, November 12th
Visit www.capitol.state.tx.us for information on the Texas Legislature and specific legislation

H.B. 97

Relating to exemption from ad valorem taxation of the residence homesteads of certain partially disabled veterans.

H.B. 98

Relating to the use of zero-based budgeting.

H.B. 99

Relating to the Teachers Retirement System state contribution rate.

H.J.R. 24

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for an exemption from ad valorem taxation of part of the market value of the residence homestead of a partially disabled veteran or the surviving spouse of a partially disabled veteran if the residence homestead was donated to the disabled veteran by a charitable organization.

Jacklyn and I want to wish you and your family a happy and safe Thanksgiving!

As an American, it is important to remember where our strength should come from. It is the realization that our dependence cannot be placed on a man-made institution called government. It is our GOD given abilities, gifts, talents and love for one another that make us
GREAT. Each of us having worth, value and significance. As conservative Christians, we have had our message hijacked, perverted and taken hostage. Freedom is the essence of Christianity, and it is the essence of our founding principles as a nation. It is time that we walk the walk, and not just talk the talk. If we want people to experience the joy of freedom that is the fabric of the GOSPEL and our country, then we must be bold in our initiatives to replace government with viable alternatives. We cannot curse those in need that participate in the most readily available system. It is my fundamental belief that twelve men changed the world forever–we need a revival of the Christian values in application not just words.
This in mind, I encourage you to seek out non-governmental alternatives providing solutions to the “safety-net” of our society. As a note, this is not to say the government supported are not necessary or viable, but if they had their way, they would prefer not to be under the control of the government. I have been privileged to learn about several of these in our region recently, and would encourage you to consider them during your year-end giving. (None of these organizations have asked for this endorsement or acknowledgement.)

• High Point Village: They provide a structured and consistent environment for our mentally and physically challenged. There goal is to have a community that will be supported with no federal and state dollars as an alternative when their care givers are not present. An alternative to the state supported schools.

• Buckner’s: Provides a Christian, holistic approach to helping young mothers and their children. Education and life skills are the focus, but done under the loving precepts found in scripture. Independence through dependence on Christ is the message I heard when I visited My Father’s House.

• Capitol Commission: Provides a non-denominational ministry to state legislators across the country. During session I personally attended one (and sometimes a second) Bible Study with Texas Director Don Garner and around 20 members of the Texas Legislature. He is 100% dependent on donor support, and provides a bi-partisan process that keeps me, along with other members, grounded as the session grinds you up.

• Your Local Church: Most churches have emphasis on mission giving. I would encourage you to write the check, but more importantly, GIVE YOUR TIME. Every organization needs Christian leaders to help mentor others in their time of need. I am convinced that if communities and churches step up and do the things we are called to do, then government will have less and less of a foothold.

• Parkridge Pregnancy: Provides alternatives to abortion.
I know these are just a few and I encourage you to reach out and help someone in crisis. It is not the government’s job, not the conservative’s job, not the liberal’s job, it is mankind’s job.

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