Legislative Services

On Tuesday, the Capitol grounds hosted Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick for an inauguration celebration and provision of the oath of office. Both easily won reelection in November and now officially begin their third terms.

Following on last week's inaugural comments from House Speaker Dade Phelan and earlier ones from Patrick, Abbott laid out his priorities for the 88th Legislature. He called for further action on school safety and a greater voice for parents in student curriculum, and he renewed his previously stated support for school vouchers.

To keep pace with Texas' continued growth, Abbott said the state must invest in water, transportation and energy infrastructure. He called for "the largest property tax cut in Texas history." Patrick had previously called for similar relief and previewed soon-to-be-filed legislation that will increase the property tax exemption from $40,000 to $70,000.

For more information about this article, please contact Pete Winckler.