Rep. Leo Wilson Working to Deliver Results in House Committees

Austin, TX – This week, Representative Terri Leo Wilson worked diligently in committee hearings and  meetings with stakeholders to advance critical legislation. From addressing transportation challenges on the  Bolivar-Galveston Ferry to tackling key public education reforms, her work in committee meetings is laying the  foundation for important policy changes. 

Bolivar-Galveston Ferry: Addressing Stalled Vehicles 

On Thursday, Rep. Leo Wilson laid out House Bill 787 in committee to address the ongoing issue of stalled  vehicles on the Bolivar-Galveston Ferry. Following discussions, TxDOT committed to implementing  solutions modeled after Port Aransas’ successful approach. 

“While I will continue seeking a committee vote on the bill, I trust TxDOT will honor its commitment and act  swiftly,” said Rep. Leo Wilson. “Coastal communities deserve reliable transportation, and I will remain vigilant  to ensure TxDOT follows through.” 

Fighting for Fairness in Hunting Violations: HB 654 

Also on Thursday, Rep. Leo Wilson presented House Bill 654, which would allow for the dismissal of charges  related to prohibited hunting upon the completion of a hunter education course. Brian Asp, a constituent,  testified about the unfair financial burden of penalties, despite self-reporting his violation in good faith. This bill  aims to encourage education over punitive fines, ensuring that well-intentioned hunters are not unduly  penalized. 

Public Education Committee Hears Priority Bills 

At Tuesday’s Public Education Committee Hearing, Rep. Leo Wilson participated in discussions on two priority  bills: 

• HB 6 by Rep. Leach aims to overhaul the student disciplinary framework in Texas schools, equipping  educators with the tools to maintain safe and supportive learning environments. The bill addresses the  alarming rise in student violence, providing schools the authority to request injunctive relief for students  posing safety threats and establishing Virtual Disciplinary Alternative Education Programs.  
• HB 123 by Rep. Dutton introduces comprehensive reforms to strengthen early childhood education,  requiring teacher training in mathematics and literacy, establishing intervention programs, and  expanding access to resources for struggling students. The bill also supports teacher development  through Teacher Achievement Academies and promotes parental involvement through early childhood  support programs.

Rep. Leo Wilson also laid out her HB 610, which would reduce superintendent severance pay from one year’s  salary to six months, ensuring taxpayer dollars are used effectively in public education. 

Earlier in the week, Rep. Leo Wilson laid out two additional bills in the Subcommittee on County & Regional  Government: 

• HB 554 – Allowing the sale of fireworks for Juneteenth celebrations. 
• HB 1338 – Giving Galveston County the authority to set uniform work hours. 

While much of the public’s attention is on House Floor sessions, critical legislative work is happening in  committees and stakeholder meetings. The Texas House has seen a 6% increase in bill filings this session, with  over 3,450 bills already referred to committees. 

• 106 committee hearings have been held so far. 
• Over 5,300 individuals have formally registered their positions on bills. 
• More than 17,000 Texans have submitted public comments online. 
• 1,800+ witnesses have traveled to Austin to testify before House committees. 

“The legislative process extends far beyond the House Floor,” said Rep. Leo Wilson. “The work we do in  committees, in stakeholder meetings, and in listening to constituents is what allows us to craft strong, effective  policy. I’m proud of what we accomplished this week, and I am confident my efforts throughout the week will  get us closer to achieving the reforms that Galveston and Chambers have entrusted me to get done in Austin.”