It’s no surprise that Texas, with its booming economy and vast opportunities, has one of the fastest-growing populations in the nation. As more people move to the Lone Star State, we are faced with intensifying challenges regarding accessibility to physicians, which have consistently been in short supply.

While the shortage of physicians isn’t new or unique to Texas, projections show that our physician distribution lags compared to other states. By 2032, Texas could be short over 10,000 physicians if current trends remain. Other major drivers of the shortage include an aging population that requires increasingly complex care, medical school debt, burnout following the pandemic, and a significant portion of the current physician workforce reaching retirement age.

As lawmakers, we are constantly evaluating how we can increase the supply of high-quality physicians to help achieve our ultimate goal of providing accessible healthcare to all Texans. With 16 medical schools across the state, 7 of which have opened since 2016, the Legislature has continued its commitment to bolstering the physician workforce for generations to come.

However, providing more opportunities for medical school is just one part of the equation. With more students graduating from medical school, it is critical that the state provides adequate opportunities for training through residency programs. Without enough residency slots, students are leaving the state for other graduate medical education programs, some of whom will never return. In response to this trend, the Legislature set a target ratio of 1.1 to 1 for the number of first-year residency positions compared to graduating medical students. Meeting this target would allow all Texas medical school graduates to pursue their residency training within the state, a factor known to boost the likelihood of physicians staying in Texas to practice medicine after completing their training.

To further address the shortage of first-year residency positions, the Legislature initiated several new programs in 2013, including the Unfilled Residency Position Program and the Resident Physician Expansion Program, and provided just over $14 million in funding. During the following legislative session, legislators consolidated the various programs into the single Graduate Medical Education (GME) Expansion Program and increased funding to over $49 million. Funding has significantly increased over the years and most recently, the Legislature appropriated over $233 million for GME, indicating an increase of $219 million since the GME Expansion Program’s establishment. The GME Expansion Program has supported the creation of 508 new first-year residency positions between 2014 and 2023.

We’ve seen the impact of GME Expansion right here in the Rio Grande Valley. These funds have supported new residency positions in various specialties, like family medicine, internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, neurology, psychiatry, general surgery, and more. Additionally, the UTRGV School of Podiatric Medicine, the first podiatry school in Texas, is now eligible for GME funding following the passage of House Bill 2509 during the 2021 Legislative session, which I proudly authored. These funds support residency slots for students to pursue careers in the medical and surgical care of the foot and ankle – an important specialization for the Valley due to its high incidence of diabetes and related diseases of the lower extremities.

More people means more healthcare needs and we must continue to invest in the education of physicians in all corners of the state. The Legislature has made GME Expansion a priority over the years, but the work is not done. As we move forward, we need to ensure that our medical schools and US/Texas students are a priority for GME funding. By further bolstering graduate medical education programs, we can ensure that medical school graduates have the opportunity to train in and ultimately serve the diverse communities across the state.

Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar recently announced that nearly $126 million in financial assistance has been delivered to rural law enforcement and prosecutor offices across the state as part of a grant program assisting rural areas.

Enacted by Senate Bill 22 during the 88^th Legislature, Regular Session, the grant program provides financial assistance to sheriff’s departments, constable’s offices, and district and county attorney’s offices in eligible counties to ensure professional law enforcement and legal representation of the people’s interests throughout the state. Specifically, the grant program allows the Comptroller’s office to administer the Rural Sheriff’s Department Salary Assistance Grant, the Rural Constable’s Office Salary Assistance Grant, and the Rural Prosecutor’s Office Salary Assistance Grant. The Legislature appropriated $330 million for the 2024-25 biennium to fund the grant program.

The following awards were granted to law enforcement and prosecutor offices in Senate District 20:

·     Brooks County – Sheriff Grant Award: $250,000

·     Brooks County – County Attorney Grant Award: $100,000

·     Jim Wells, Brooks Counties – District Attorney Grant Award: $175,000

·     Jim Wells County – Sheriff Grant Award: $350,000

·     Jim Wells County – County Attorney Grant Award: $175,000

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa issued the following statement:

“In Senate Finance Committee hearings, we heard testimony from sheriffs, constables, and prosecutors regarding the vital resources needed for them to continue protecting our communities. By investing in our local law enforcement agencies and prosecutor offices, especially those in rural counties, we are not only strengthening public safety but reinforcing our commitment to supporting the brave men and women who serve and protect us. I thank Lt. Governor Dan Patrick for making this issue a priority last session and Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar for his work on this important issue. I look forward to seeing the impact these grants will have on the communities of Senate District 20.”

Yesterday, the Texas Education Agency announced the appointment of a seven-member Board of Managers and a new superintendent to oversee the operations of the La Joya Independent School District (LJISD). This decision is the result of a TEA investigation that substantiated allegations of fraud and conflicts of interest executed by members of the elected LJISD Board of Trustees.

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa released the following statement:

“There is nothing more important to our communities, our families, and the future of our children than a strong public school system. Our dedicated La Joya ISD teachers and staff work tirelessly and do an excellent job preparing our students for success. However, for years we have seen certain board members make decisions that prioritize their own interest to enrich themselves at the expense of our children and taxpayers. Real culture and systemic changes start at the top to ensure they trickle down. While some board members were elected to do the right thing for the school district, they were not enough to overcome the majority and vote in favor of making the necessary changes. TEA determined that a fresh start was the best course of action for our students. I welcome the newly appointed board members who have accepted to serve. I look forward to their leadership in providing proper oversight and correct the mismanagement and unethical practices that have plagued the district for many years. The culture of corruption must end.”

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa is pleased to announce that the Texas Water Development Board (“TWDB”) has approved a request from the Sharyland Water Supply Corporation (“Sharyland WSC”) of $35,910,000 in financial assistance for the construction of certain water system improvements. Sharyland WSC owns and operates three water treatment plants to exclusively serve approximately 90,846 residents residing northwest of the cities of Mission, McAllen, and Edinburg. Sharyland WSC’s project will increase water treatment capacity and address multiple issues with the treatment plants. In addition, the project will also relocate approximately 26.5 miles of waterlines to accommodate road expansion as required by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).

Sharyland WSC qualified for $10 million in principal forgiveness as a disadvantaged community and a $25.91 million loan from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. Unlike the majority of water districts in Texas, Sharyland WSC, as a nonprofit water supply corporation operating under Chapter 67 of the Texas Water Code, cannot levy taxes and must rely on revenue to pay back debt. TWDB reports that no projected rate increase is anticipated by Sharyland WSC with the addition of this debt and the corporation would gain significant benefits from the state program. According to TWDB, Sharyland WSC could save approximately $19 million based on a 30-year maturity schedule.

Although the project is estimated to cost $68.7 million, the remainder of the funds to pay for the project will come from other sources. The project will be completed with $13.32 million in funding from the Environmental Protection Agency through the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA), a $300,000 grant from the Bureau of Reclamation (USBR), and $19.55 million in cash contribution from the Sharyland WSC, which includes approximately $900,000 in reimbursement from TxDOT.

Senator Hinojosa recognizes the significance of this financial assistance to the future of Mission, McAllen, and Edinburg. He states, “The area Sharyland Water Supply Corporation supplies water to is one of the fastest growing areas in the Rio Grande Valley that needs a capable water provider to meet the needs of those residents and businesses. By investing in the project proposed by Sharyland Water Supply Corporation, we are taking proactive steps to ensure that economic development is not hindered by the lack of clean water.”

Senator Hinojosa extends his congratulations to the Board of Directors of Sharyland WSC for applying for the state funding. He also thanks the TWDB board members and their staff for their support and assistance in making this grant possible.

Today, Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa filed for re-election to the Texas Senate. Senator Hinojosa seeks to continue his work for Senate District 20 by providing for an educated and healthy workforce, investing in critical infrastructure, protecting our communities, creating jobs, lowering taxes, and furthering economic development. He has proven session after session that his approach to public policy and his decisions on legislation are driven by what is best for our South Texas families.

Senator Hinojosa issued the following statement:

“I am honored to serve the people of Senate District 20. There are continuing challenges and issues we need to resolve, and I am running for re-election to continue working to find solutions that benefit our communities and our state.

As Vice Chair of the Senate Finance Committee, I have worked tirelessly to take care of the needs of our families. With the surplus funds we have had the past two sessions, I have focused on legislation and funding that increases access to quality education, affordable healthcare, safe communities, and providing tax relief for homeowners and businesses.

To ensure that our future generations, our children and grandchildren, have the resources they need to thrive, I have secured funding and supported investments in infrastructure projects including broadband, water, roads, and the electric grid. I also remain committed to supporting policies and programs that create jobs, provide training opportunities, like apprenticeships, and enhance scholarship funding for students.

As a border state, we must address the issues surrounding border security effectively. As a lifelong border resident, I understand the importance of finding comprehensive solutions that prioritize the safety and well-being of all Texans. I am committed to border security and continuing to work collaboratively to find solutions that protect our communities while upholding our values and treating everyone with dignity and respect.

I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Senate District 20. Together, we can overcome the challenges and address the problems identified during the pandemic and the electric grid crisis. Together we can ensure a brighter and stronger future for all Texans. I humbly ask for your support and vote to continue our teamwork in benefiting our communities.”

Senator Hinojosa has received the prestigious honor of being named “Top Ten Best Legislators” for Texas Monthly magazine three times and named “Top Ten Legislator” by Capitol Inside three times.

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces (part), Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, Vice Chairman of the Senate Special Committee on Redistricting, and serves on the Senate Committees on Border Security; Criminal Justice; and Jurisprudence.

The Texas Transportation Commission recently announced the allocation of over $345 million for 83 projects throughout the state, aimed at improving access, safety, and mobility options for schools, jobs, public transit, and local destinations. Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa is pleased to announce that Jim Wells County is one of the recipients, having been awarded $1.4 million for the Hwy 281 Pedestrian Connectivity and Accessibility Sidewalk project.

“I appreciate the Jim Wells County Commissioners Court for their dedication and commitment to enhancing our communities,” said Senator Hinojosa. He added, “Sidewalks in our neighborhoods are important, as they not only promote safety but also foster a sense of connectivity and accessibility for all residents.”

The Transportation Alternatives program plays a vital role in supporting local projects that enhance bicycle and pedestrian amenities for individuals of all ages and abilities. These initiatives aim to improve safe access to multimodal options and connect important community destinations such as schools, jobs, downtowns, commercial areas, and medical facilities for Texans who walk, use a wheelchair, or bike.

Senator Hinojosa is also pleased to announce that the Texas Workforce Commission recently awarded five dual credit grants, totaling over $900,000, to five Texas independent school districts (ISD). Alice ISD has been awarded $220,000 for a nursing program. These grants will enable the ISDs to purchase, repair, or replace equipment for career and technical education programs that provide postsecondary training to students for high-demand industries.

“Congratulations to the Alice ISD Administration, the Trustees, and the dedicated staff for their leadership and their work on securing this important grant,” said Senator Hinojosa. “With the ongoing nursing shortage, this investment and program will not only have a positive impact in addressing the nursing shortage, but will also provide our students the skills and tools needed to get a good paying job in a high-demand occupation,” he concluded.

The Texas Workforce Commission utilizes funding from the Skills Development Fund to support, create, and expand dual credit and career and technical education programs that cater to the local demand for high-skill industries, offering well-paying job opportunities.

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.