Rick Thompson joined the Legislative Department in December 2000. Prior to joining TAC, Thompson worked for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice as a correctional officer for two years. He then spent the next three years assigned to serve in various administrative capabilities where he advised official representatives, law enforcement agencies and the public; he also processed official documents and responded to a wide range of public inquires. 

During his employment with TDCJ-ID, Thompson earned a B.A. degree in political science from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville. He is now senior legislative liaison and is responsible for issues such as:

• Health and Human Services
• Hospital/Hospital District issues
• first responder/emergency preparedness
• justice court issues
• county authority
• employee health benefits
• liaison to the County Judges and Commissioner Association
• liaison to the Justice of the Peace and Constables Association