LEMAN, KOLKHORST SHARE THOUGHTS ON LEGISLATIVE SESSION AT FORUM
Washington County’s state legislators recapped the most recent legislative sessions at a luncheon today (Tuesday) in Brenham.
State Representative Ben Leman and State Senator Lois Kolkhorst spoke to a large crowd at the Legislative Wrap-Up Forum at Blinn College, hosted by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce. The two discussed the difficulty of the 87th Legislature and its subsequent special sessions, while also reviewing some of the new laws and initiatives they consider to be the most important coming out of Austin.
Leman said the work from lawmakers this year led to “one of the most conservative legislative sessions in Texas history,” and believes conservative principles are at the core of the free-market economy.
Some of the topics Leman pointed to that were addressed by the Senate and House included the banning of the teaching of critical race theory in schools, eminent domain reform, gun rights, election laws, religious freedom, support of police agencies, bail reform, Internet access and free speech on the Internet, and border security.
Kolkhorst said COVID-19 and the reform of policies to address it was a central priority during legislators’ time at the capitol, including striking a balance between state and local powers during the pandemic, prohibiting vaccine passports and making data available on hospitalizations. She also remarked on her legislation to strengthen visitation rights for loved ones in long-term care facilities.
Other items mentioned by Kolkhorst included changes to the agencies that oversee the electric grid, Medicaid reimbursement, property tax relief, rural healthcare, and securing $31 million in funding over the 86th and 87th Legislatures, including $23 million this year, for Washington-on-the-Brazos.
Leman, who is not seeking re-election, said he is proud of the work he has been able to do during his time in office.
Kolkhorst told the audience of the need for community leaders to ensure continued growth and success.
The forum ended with a brief question and answer segment, where Leman and Kolkhorst answered questions submitted by members of the audience.