I encourage all Texans to vote for Proposition 9 and support our retired Texas teachers. The approval of this proposition in November will provide a much-needed Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) to certain Teacher Retirement System (TRS) members. It has been two decades since our TRS beneficiaries received a COLA, making this proposition long overdue. 

If approved by the voters in November, Proposition 9 will establish a permanent COLA to retirement benefits, ensuring that our retired teachers and other school employees receive the financial support they deserve. This significant step forward was made possible with the passage of SB 10 and HJR 2, which I co-authored, during the recent legislative session. These bills not only authorized the proposition but also secured an appropriation of $3.355 billion to fund the COLA. 

The impact of this COLA will take effect with the January 2024 annuity payment, providing much-needed relief to retired teachers who have been struggling with the loss of their purchasing power due to inflation. It is important to recognize the sacrifices our educators have made throughout their careers, and it is our duty to ensure their financial security during retirement. 

Over the past several years, I have heard countless stories from retired teachers who are living paycheck to paycheck and having to decide between buying their medication or food for their next meal. These devoted public servants have dedicated their lives to shaping the minds of our future generations, and it is only fair that we reciprocate their commitment by supporting Proposition 9. 

I would like to express my appreciation to the Texas Retired Teachers Association (TRTA) for their unwavering advocacy and tireless work in support of a COLA increase. Specifically, I want to thank Pat Macias from Alice, and Leroy DeHaven from Corpus Christi, both former TRTA Presidents, for their leadership and invaluable contributions. Their commitment to the cause and dedication to improving the lives of retired teachers has been instrumental in making this proposition a reality.

By supporting Proposition 9, we can ensure that our retired teachers and other school employees receive the financial support they deserve and that their sacrifices are recognized. Let us come together as a community and vote in favor of Proposition 9, securing a brighter future for our retired teachers and the generations they have inspired. 

Governor Greg Abbott will soon be calling all legislators back to the Capitol for a third special session. The purpose of this session will be to discuss and potentially pass a school voucher bill in Texas. I want to make it clear that I have consistently voted against vouchers in the past, and I will continue to do so during this special session.

I urge teachers, school employees, and the business community to join me in opposing vouchers. Our constitution guarantees a free public education, and it is our duty to protect this fundamental right. Vouchers and scholarships that divert public funds towards private education undermine the very essence of our public school system.

Public schools play a key role in training our future workforce. They provide a comprehensive education that prepares students for the challenges of the modern world. By diverting funds to private schools through vouchers, we risk weakening our public education system and hindering the development of a skilled workforce.

Vouchers will have a negative impact on our economy. By taking away funds from public schools, we are depriving them of the resources necessary to provide a quality education. This, in turn, will hinder our ability to attract businesses and industries that rely on a well-educated workforce. Investing in public education is an investment in our state’s economic future.

It is important to address the unmet needs within our public schools before considering any diversion of funds. Our teachers and school employees deserve a pay raise for their tireless dedication to our children’s education. We can and must do more to address the high cost of health insurance for our educators and their families to ensure their well-being. We must also prioritize the safety of our students and address unmet safety needs and ensure adequate resources for school security.

Several reports, such as those issued by the Teacher Vacancy Task Force and the House Select Committee on Educational Opportunity and Enrichment, have offered great recommendations to the legislature. While some of these recommendations have been passed by either the House or the Senate, they have not been sent to the Governor for final approval. Instead, the progress of these proposals is being held hostage by the push to pass private school vouchers, which will only benefit a select few.

Vouchers will not solve the pressing issues impacting our students and teachers; instead, they will only exacerbate them. We must focus on strengthening our public education system, not dismantling it. By rallying together, we can make our voices heard and protect the future of our children and our state.

I urge teachers, school employees, and the business community to get involved. Contact your representatives, attend public hearings, and voice your concerns. Together, we can ensure that our public schools remain the cornerstone of our community, providing a quality education for all Texas students. Let us stand united against school vouchers and work towards a brighter future for our public education system. Our children deserve nothing less.

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa is pleased to announce that the Port of Corpus Christi has been awarded $28.5 million in grants by the Texas Transportation Commission. These grants are part of the funds approved by the Texas Legislature earlier this year.

As vice chair of the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Hinojosa has been a strong advocate and supporter of funding for maritime ports. “Our maritime ports are the lifeblood of the Texas economy, and the Port of Corpus Christi, as the #1 U.S. crude oil export gateway and #1 for annual revenue tonnage, plays a crucial role in our state’s economic success,” said Senator Hinojosa.

The grants awarded are from HB 1, the General Appropriations Act, which included $40 million for the Port Access Improvement Grant Program to improve connectivity to Texas ports. Additionally, SB 30, the Supplemental Appropriations Bill, appropriated $200,000,000 for port development and infrastructure projects.

Projects are selected by the Port Authority Advisory Committee and approved by the Texas Transportation Commission. The Port of Corpus Christi will receive:

•  $20,818,119 for bulkhead materials terminal facility improvements, including ship loader purchase, rail improvements with conveyance upgrades.
• $6,733,044 for the reconstruction of Sam Rankin Street from IH 37 to Port Ave.
• $779,081 to improve the intersection at the Joe Fulton International Trade Corridor and the ADM grain elevator exit and install traffic control devices.
• $169,021 for the Corpus Christi District Wayfinding System.

“These grants will significantly enhance the infrastructure and operations at the Port of Corpus Christi,” said Senator Hinojosa. “I appreciate the leadership of Chairman Charlie Zahn and am thankful to all Port staff for their tireless work and dedication. I will continue advocating and supporting the Port of Corpus Christi and I look forward to seeing the positive impact these investments will have on our community and the state of Texas.”

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed many glaring disparities in our society, particularly when it comes to access to the internet. As we navigated the challenges of remote work, online education, and virtual healthcare, it became clear how far our state and country were from ensuring that every family has reliable internet access. In an increasingly digital world, access to the internet is no longer a luxury or convenience; it is a necessity.

Recognizing the urgency of this issue, I am proud to have co-authored legislation that develops and invests in broadband and telecommunications infrastructure in Texas. To fund these investments, and create the Broadband Infrastructure Fund (BIF), voters must pass Proposition 8. This crucial initiative, if approved by voters on the November 2023 ballot, will allocate $1.5 billion in state funds to support broadband and emergency telecommunications infrastructure projects in Texas.

The BIF serves multiple purposes that are essential for bridging the digital divide. The BIF will be used to administer the Broadband Development Program, which aims to expand broadband access to underserved communities across the state. By investing in the necessary infrastructure, we can ensure that no Texan is left behind in the digital age.

Additionally, BIF will provide a state match to federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program funds, further leveraging resources to maximize the impact of broadband development initiatives. This past June, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration announced Texas’ allocation totaling $3.3 billion in federal funding for the BEAD Program. This significant investment further strengthens our efforts to bridge the digital divide in Texas and accelerate our progress in expanding broadband access.

BIF will also allocate funds to support 9-1-1 services and upgrades, recognizing the critical role that reliable emergency telecommunications play in safeguarding our communities. By providing a one-time transfer of $155.2 million to the NextGen 9-1-1 Service Fund, we can enhance emergency response capabilities and ensure that Texans have access to life-saving services when they need them most.

Lastly, BIF will allocate $75 million to the Broadband Pole Replacement Program, addressing a crucial infrastructure need. This investment will facilitate the replacement of outdated and inadequate utility poles in order to install new broadband infrastructure. These funds address the cost issue which has been a huge barrier to improving connectivity and reliability for communities across the state.

These funds are in addition to the allocation of $500.5 million in ARPA Funds authorized by the Texas Legislature in 2021 to fund critical upgrades to the state’s broadband infrastructure, furthering our ability to meet internet accessibility needs in schools, business, and homes. These funds have been instrumental in addressing the immediate needs of our communities.

The establishment of the BIF, and the previous investments for broadband, are significant steps towards achieving digital equity in Texas. However, it is crucial that we recognize that this is just the beginning. Closing the digital divide requires a comprehensive and sustained effort from all levels of government, private sector partners, and community organizations.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a wake-up call, highlighting the urgent need for universal broadband access. We have a historic opportunity to bridge the digital divide in Texas and ensure that every Texan has access to the opportunities and resources that the internet provides. Proposition 8 and the establishment of the BIF are critical steps towards achieving this goal.

On the November 2023 ballot, I urge all Texans to vote in favor of Proposition 8 to allocate $1.5 billion to the Broadband Infrastructure Fund. By doing so, we authorize the use of the necessary resources to expand broadband access, support emergency telecommunications, and replace outdated infrastructure. This investment will not only improve connectivity but also empower our communities, enhance education, create economic opportunities, and save lives.

Let us come together and make a strong statement that every Texan deserves equal access to the internet. Vote for Proposition 8 and support the Broadband Infrastructure Fund. Together, we can build a more equitable and connected Texas for generations to come.

As Texans, it is important that we remember and celebrate the remarkable contributions of our state’s heroes. One such individual is Dr. Hector P. Garcia, a trailblazing figure whose legacy continues to inspire generations. In 2009, I authored and passed legislation designating the third Wednesday in September as Dr. Hector P. Garcia Day through Senate Bill 495. The bill authorized the observance of the day by schools and state agencies to honor Dr. Garcia and teach our younger generations about his legacy.

Dr. Garcia’s life story is one of extraordinary service and unwavering dedication. His military service during World War II as a U.S. Army medical officer exemplified his commitment to defending our nation’s values. His bravery and sacrifice earned him numerous accolades, including the Bronze Star for his “outstanding diligence and loyalty to duty.”

Dr. Garcia’s impact extended far beyond the battlefield. In 1984, President Ronald Reagan presented him the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States, for his tireless advocacy for civil rights and his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of all Americans.

Education was a cause particularly close to Dr. Garcia’s heart. He firmly believed that “Education is our Freedom, and Freedom should be Everybody’s Business,” a quote that not only served as his personal motto but also became the motto of the American GI Forum. This powerful statement captured his belief that education is the cornerstone of empowerment and that it is the responsibility of every individual to ensure that freedom and education are accessible to all.

In 1948, Dr. Garcia co-founded the American G.I. Forum, an organization dedicated to addressing the concerns of Mexican American veterans. Through this platform, he fought against discrimination, advocating for equal access to education, healthcare, and voting rights. Dr. Garcia’s unwavering commitment to justice led him to challenge the segregation of schools, hospitals, and public spaces, paving the way for a more inclusive Texas.

Dr. Garcia embodies the spirit of selflessness and public service. As a private American citizen, he exercised his constitutional rights to elevate awareness about the plight of neglected Americans. As a physician, he provided access to medical care to underserved communities. As a soldier, he demonstrated valor and sacrifice as he fought to protect our liberties. Dr. Garcia never wavered in his commitment to the United States Constitution and equality for all.

The impact of Dr. Garcia’s service and legacy on Texas cannot be overstated. His unwavering commitment to civil rights, education, and equality has left an indelible mark on our state’s history. By designating the third Wednesday of September as Dr. Hector P. Garcia Day, we ensure that future generations are aware of his remarkable contributions.

As we embark on Hispanic Heritage Month, let us take this opportunity to reflect on the invaluable contributions of Hispanic Americans like Dr. Garcia. Let us remember Dr. Hector P. Garcia’s legacy, honor his service, and strive to follow his unwavering dedication to education and equality. By doing so, we ensure that his legacy continues to shape the future of Texas for generations to come.

On Labor Day, we come together to honor and recognize the hardworking individuals who contribute to our state and nation. Whether you are a medical professional, teacher, grocery worker, truck driver, custodian, or hold any other occupation, your dedication and commitment keep our communities thriving and our economy strong. We appreciate the sacrifices you make to ensure our families are healthy, our children receive an education, and our food supply remains stocked.

Labor Day is a reminder that our workers are not just colleagues, but also our friends, family, and neighbors. They are individuals striving to provide for their families, support education, and pursue their dreams. It is our duty to support our workforce, labor unions, and those who simply want their children to have more opportunities than they did.

Let us also acknowledge the employers who create millions of jobs for Texans. From small businesses to large corporations, these entities employ over 15 million Texans and serve as the backbone of our economy.

The impact of Texas workers extends beyond our borders, and it is their sweat, dedication, and perseverance that make our state and nation second to none. Labor Day holds a special place in our hearts and serves as a day to recognize all the workers who make Texas and the U.S.A. a great place to live and raise our families. So, let us show our support to our workers not just today, but every day. A simple “thank you” can go a long way. Thank you, workers, for everything you have done and continue to do for our communities, our state, and our nation.

By the Numbers:

• Texas currently has its largest labor force in history, with over 15 million people.
• Texas ranks first in the nation for annual job growth, with 441,700 new positions created between July 2022 and July 2023.
• The statewide labor force participation rate in Texas is 64.2 percent, which is 1.6 percent higher than the U.S. national average.
• Texas has outpaced the national average in annual employment growth in 10 out of the 11 major industries.
• In July, the number of employed individuals in Texas reached over 14.4 million, setting another record high.
• During the month of July 2023, Texas added nearly 26,000 new private sector jobs, indicating that businesses are choosing to relocate and expand in the state.
• Texas currently has 644,000 employers, the highest number in our state’s history, and they are the driving force behind job creation.
• Over the past decade, Texas private sector employers have added more than 2.5 million jobs.

These numbers from the Texas Workforce Commission highlight the strength and resilience of our workforce and the positive impact they have on our economy. Let us celebrate and appreciate the contributions of our workers on this Labor Day and every day.

House Bill 1, the General Appropriations Act for the 2024-2025 biennium, has officially come into effect. This budget, totaling $321 billion in All Funds for the next two years, surpasses the previous Appropriations Act by $18 billion. HB 1 follows the implementation of Senate Bill 30, the Supplemental Appropriations Bill, which became effective in June and included a total of $13.2 billion in appropriations.

HB 1 provides nearly $18 billion in property tax relief contingent on voter approval later this year. It provides an increase of $3.2 billion to the Foundation School Program to fund projected enrollment growth in our public schools, and also sets aside $5 billion for teacher salary increases and other educational priorities. With school safety a priority for the Texas Legislature, $1.4 billion has been added for school safety measures. The budget also includes $1.6 billion for a one-time supplemental payment (or 13^th check) for certain Teacher Retirement System retirees and $3.4 billion for a cost-of-living adjustment for retired teachers. Funding for some of these items is contingent on the passage of constitutional amendments or the passage of legislation in an upcoming special session.

To ensure that the state remains competitive, investing in our institutions of higher education and our growing workforce remained a priority throughout the budget-writing process. HB 1 provides for increased funding towards our general academic universities ($4.8 billion) and public junior colleges ($2.2 billion). As our state population grows, so does the need for a robust healthcare workforce. HB 1 includes $233 million for graduate medical education and over $124 million for other healthcare staffing programs.

Other statewide highlights include funding of nearly $81 billion for the Texas Medicaid Program; $9.4 billion in funding for mental health care including $280.5 million to fully fund the Texas Child Mental Health Consortium; $2 billion to raise base wages for Medicaid community attendants; $5 billion for electric generation facilities; $1.5 billion for broadband infrastructure; $1 billion for water infrastructure projects; and $1 billion for state parks.

HB 1 and SB 30 also include significant investments for the Rio Grande Valley in Senate District 20. Budget highlights include:

• $12 million for the UTRGV School of Medicine Podiatric Specialty Medicine Program.
• $25 million for the Texas A&M Health Science Center to construct an education and research facility at the Texas A&M Higher Education Center in McAllen.
• $20 million for the Pharr International Bridge.
• $10 million for the South Texas International Airport for infrastructure upgrades.
• $5 million for the Mid-Valley Airport in Weslaco for a hangar expansion.
• $3 million in grants for Border Zone Fire Departments. This is an increase of $2 million from the previous budget.
• $120 million to construct a 50-bed state hospital maximum security facility in the Rio Grande Valley.
• $85 million for the construction of up to 100 inpatient beds for a hospital in the Rio Grande Valley.
• Up to $10 million in funds for the Raymondville Drain Project.
• $625,000 for the City of La Joya park renovations.
• $500,000 for the Texas Transnational Intelligence Center in McAllen.

On November 7th, Texans will have the opportunity to make their voices heard by voting on 14 proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution. These amendments cover a wide range of issues that are important to our state, and it is crucial that we take the time to educate ourselves and participate in this democratic process.

As your State Senator, I supported the passage of the resolutions calling for these propositions during the legislative session. I believe that each of these amendments has the potential to positively impact our state and its residents. Let me briefly highlight a few of the propositions that I find particularly significant:

Proposition 1 – Protection for Farmers and Ranchers – Aims to protect the rights of farmers, ranchers, timber producers, horticulturists, and wildlife managers. By enshrining these rights in our state constitution, we can ensure that these vital industries continue to thrive and contribute to our economy.

Proposition 4 – Property Tax Relief – Provides more than $18 billion in property tax relief for Texans. Homeowners under the age of 65 will be allowed a homestead exemption of $100,000, while disabled homeowners and those over the age of 65, will receive an exemption of $110,000. This increase would follow previous increments in 2015 and 2021, when the exemption was raised to $25,000 and $40,000, respectively. This proposition aims to provide tax relief and make homeownership more affordable for Texans.

Proposition 5 – Investments In Higher Education – Focuses on funding for higher education institutions by creating the Texas University Fund with a $3 billion endowment. It seeks to provide financial support to certain universities to help them achieve national prominence as major research institutions. This investment in our universities will not only enhance their academic standing but also drive our state’s economy forward.

Proposition 6 – Texas Water Fund – Creates the Texas Water fund and authorizes an initial investment of $1 billion, which will go towards financing new water supply projects and repairments of existing aging water infrastructure. As the state population grows, this fund will allow us to better address current water challenges, as well as prepare to meet the growing demand of water for years to come.

Proposition 7 – Texas Energy Fund – Establishes the Texas Energy Fund and allocates an initial down payment of $5 billion to support the construction, maintenance, and modernization of new dispatchable electric generation capacity in the state. Record-breaking temperatures experienced this summer prove the critical need for robust dispatchable energy and a reliable electric grid.

Proposition 8 – Broadband Infrastructure – Allocates $1.5 billion to an infrastructure fund for the development and financing of broadband, telecommunication, and 9-1-1 services. By voting for this proposition, we are one step closer to closing the digital divide for the millions of Texans without reliable internet access.

Proposition 9 – COLA Increase for Retired Teachers – Authorizes the 88th Legislature to provide $3.4 billion to fund cost-of-living adjustments to certain annuitants of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas. This amendment recognizes the importance of our educators and ensures that they receive fair compensation to support their retirement.

Proposition 14 – Fund for State Parks – Creates the Centennial Parks Conservation Fund and authorizes an investment of $1 billion, which will be used for the creation and improvement of state parks. By investing in our parks, we can preserve our natural resources, promote outdoor recreation, and enhance the quality of life for all Texans.

These are just a few examples of the propositions that will be on the ballot. Each amendment deserves careful consideration, and I encourage all Texans to familiarize themselves with the details of each proposition before casting their vote.

To learn more about the amendments and voting in Texas, I urge you to visit VoteTexas.gov. This website provides valuable information on the propositions, as well as details on how and where to vote.

Voting is not only a right but also a responsibility. It is through our participation in the democratic process that we can shape the future of Texas. I encourage all Texans to exercise their right to vote on November 7th and make their voices heard.

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, vice chair of the Senate Finance Committee, joined Texas Workforce (TWC) Chairman and Commissioner Representing the Public, Bryan Daniel, today to present nine Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grants totaling $4,718,866. The grants have been awarded to South Texas College, La Joya Independent School District (LJISD), Vanguard Academy (VA), and Weslaco Independent School District (WISD).

The JET program, championed by Senator Hinojosa, provides grants to eligible entities to purchase and install equipment necessary for the development of career and technical education (CTE) courses or programs that lead to a license, certificate, or post-secondary degree in a high-demand occupation. This past session, the Texas Legislature appropriated $30.7 million to the TWC for the JET Program.

The recipients of the grants are as follows:

South Texas College (STC) will be awarded $659,682 to expand the capacity of the Vocational Nursing Program and the Emergency Medical Services Program. This will be achieved by acquiring specialized equipment such as Manikins, MedStations, Medical Oxygen Generating Systems, and motorized lifting equipment. Approximately 395 students will benefit from this investment.

La Joya Independent School District (LJISD) will receive $1,384,190 to train approximately 100 students in the Manufacturing field. The training will also include the opportunity to gain dual credit hours and an Industry-Based Certification such as NIMS Machining Level I. Additionally, the grant will be used to train around 130 students in the nursing field, enabling them to attain Industry-Based Certifications.

Vanguard Academy (VA) will be awarded $1,494,805 to purchase, install, and train for current and innovative, industry-based equipment. This investment will provide VA students with training for careers in the computer networking and LVN/health science professions. These areas are regionally recognized as in-demand for the local economy and will provide students with hands-on training and industry-based certifications for future employment.

Weslaco Independent School District (WISD) will receive $1,180,189 to purchase industry-standard automotive equipment for their Career and Technology Education Center (CTEC). The equipment will provide students with hands-on learning experiences in the Automotive and Welding programs, preparing them for jobs that are high in demand and growth for the South Texas Region, including Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics and Welding.

Senator Hinojosa expressed his congratulations to the recipients of these grants, emphasizing the importance of investing in career and technical education to meet the demands of the local workforce. He stated, “These grants will provide students with the necessary tools and training to succeed in high-demand occupations, ultimately strengthening our economy and improving the lives of individuals and families in South Texas. I appreciate TWC Chairman Bryan Daniels coming to the RGV to present these awards and thank him for his support of the JET Program.”

The JET grants presented today are a testament to the commitment of Senator Hinojosa and the Texas Legislature to support education and workforce development in the state. By equipping students with the skills and certifications needed for in-demand careers, these grants will contribute to the growth and prosperity of South Texas.

Texas’s highly successful annual Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday is scheduled this year from Friday, August 11th through midnight Sunday, August 13th, offering Texans an opportunity to save an estimated $136 million in state and local sales tax on clothing and various back-to-school items. With the new school year almost upon us, the timing is perfect for students of all ages to stock up on clothes and supplies.

“The annual Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday provides families with an opportunity to find bargains and low prices on essential back-to-school items. Not only does it benefit families, but it also serves as an economic driver for our local businesses. With the increased costs of goods, I encourage families to take full advantage of the sales tax holiday and save money by shopping during the upcoming tax-free weekend. Whether you prefer shopping in stores or online from a Texas-based seller, make sure to mark your calendars and make the most of this opportunity,” said Senator Hinojosa.

Texans who shop during this weekend will not have to pay sales taxes on most clothing, footwear, school supplies, and backpacks (sold for less than $100). Items sold online and layaway plans also qualify. For more information and a complete list of tax-free items, please visit the Texas Comptroller’s webpage: https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/publications/98-490/