This Week in Texas: Wednesday, February 15, 2017

Posted February 15, 2017 in The Mignon Memo

House Committees in place.committeesTexas House Speaker Joe Straus has released committee assignments. To see what’s changed and what’s remained the same from last session, check out this handy resource: 84th & 85th Legislative Session House Committee Comparison

Texans steal the show.

LOS ANGELES, CA - FEBRUARY 12:  Singer Beyonce speaks onstage during The 59th GRAMMY Awards at STAPLES Center on February 12, 2017 in Los Angeles, California.  (Photo by Christopher Polk/Getty Images for NARAS)

Texas was well-represented at the 59th Grammy Awards on Sunday in Los Angeles, with Beyoncé, blues artist Gary Clark Jr., and country music breakout Marren Morris all delivering powerful performances. To read more…

Child welfare reform bills filed.cps

Legislation has been introduced in the House to address one of Speaker Straus’ top priorities: reforming the state’s embattled child welfare system. House Bills 4,5, and 6 would provide better protection for children at risk of abuse by strengthening Child Protective Services and local foster care services. To read more…

New kids on the block.BORsealGov. Greg Abbott’s three nominees to the UT System Board of Regents were confirmed unanimously by the Texas Senate. The Board has gained Sen. Kevin Eltife, a former Texas Senator; Rad Weaver, CEO of McCombs Partners; and Janiece Longoria, chair of the Port of Houston Authority. To read more….

Only in Austin…lady gagaDidn’t get enough of Lady Gaga during the Super Bowl halftime? Catch her in Austin at the Frank Erwin Center on December 5th. Tickets go on sale February 20thTo read more…