McALLEN — Yesterday, Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa was presented with the Extension in the City Award from the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service by Chancellor John Sharp. The presentation was made during an event at the Texas A&M Higher Education Center in McAllen in recognition of Senator Hinojosa’s leadership and support to Texas A&M’s Urban Programs, especially the Healthy South Texas program. Texas A&M AgriLife Vice Chancellor and Dean Patrick Stover was also on hand for the award presentation.

As Vice-Chair of the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Hinojosa has been instrumental in securing funding for Texas A&M AgriLife, including nearly $30 million for the Healthy South Texas program.

Launched as a pilot program in 2015 after Senator Hinojosa secured $10 million in funding during the 84th Texas Legislature, Healthy South Texas has served thousands of Texans and saved millions of dollars in direct and long-term medical costs.

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa issued the following statement:

“Under the leadership of Chancellor Sharp and Dean Stover, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service has made significant investments in improving Texans’ lives. I am honored to be recognized for my support of their vision. Together, we are creating solutions that improve the health and well-being of our families,” said Senator Hinojosa. “In particular, establishing and expanding the Healthy South Texas program has been a priority of mine over the last three legislative sessions. The pilot program has shown tremendous results in terms of improving health outcomes and reducing medical costs in South Texas.”

Chancellor John Sharp issued the following statement:

“I have known Sen. Hinojosa for a long time, and his dedication to his district and to Texas is legendary,” Chancellor Sharp said. “His leadership and support have been vital to the success of Texas A&M AgriLife programs and other efforts of The Texas A&M University System.”

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and serves on the Senate Committees on Property Tax; Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture; and Select Committees on Redistricting and Texas Ports.

AUSTIN — Yesterday, the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) authorized an amendment to the grant agreement for an additional $2 million grant for Hidalgo County Drainage District No. 1 reimbursement planning and design costs for the for the multi-phase drainage project known as the Raymondville Drain Project.

As Vice Chair of the Senate Finance Committee, Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa has been instrumental in securing funding for the local flood control project. Since 2013, Senator Hinojosa has successfully included a budget rider that has resulted in $12.1 million in grant funding for this project. In 2017, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality awarded $7 million for the project from the Texas RESTORE Act grants made possible through the efforts of Hidalgo County Drainage District No.1 and Senator Hinojosa. In addition to state grants, local taxpayers have also paid their share by approving $125 million in bonds for this project.

Senator Hinojosa released the following statement:

“I am pleased to announce the Texas Water Development Board approved this $2.0 million grant for the Raymondville Drain Project. The Raymondville Drain Project is a huge undertaking that will provide storm water management to the entire region and will continue the economic growth of our communities.

Over the last few years, we have worked tirelessly to identify and secure sources of available funds that would not burden our taxpayers or Hidalgo County Drainage District No. 1 with a loan. To date, I have helped secure nearly $20 million in state funding for the Raymondville Drain Project and I am proud of our efforts to provide flood control for our communities.”

Once completed, the Raymondville Drain Project will stretch 60 miles from Hidalgo County and empty into the Laguna Madre through Willacy County. The project will have components related to regional storm water management to mitigate the impact of storms. Due to the size of the project and the estimated total construction cost (approximately $418 million), the project has been divided into six major phases to be developed as funds become available. Other components of the Raymondville Drain will include water reuse, water conservation, water supply, and protection and provision for economic development.

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and serves on the Senate Committees on Property Tax; Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture; and Select Committees on Redistricting and Texas Ports.

AUSTIN — Today, the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) approved $5,499,000 in financial assistance for the City of Alice from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund for the planning, design, and construction of a supplemental water source project. The financial assistance will consist of $2,995,000 in financing, $1,025,000 in zero interest financing, and $1,479,000 in principal forgiveness.

The City of Alice intends to develop a second water source to ensure a reliable, drought resistant water supply and to reduce costs associated with the purchase and pumping of raw water from its current sole-source, the City of Corpus Christi. The project contains two phases, with the first phase including planning and design of two groundwater wells and a reverse osmosis (RO) brackish groundwater treatment plant, as well as construction of the first groundwater well. The second phase, which is not included in the current funding, will include construction of the second groundwater well and the RO treatment plant.

Senator Hinojosa released the following statement:

“I am pleased that the TWDB has approved the City of Alice to receive $5.5 million in financial assistance to develop a new primary water source. This will help alleviate the concern of increased pumping costs to deliver raw water from Corpus Christi, and ensure the residents of Alice continue to receive critical water services during drought times. 

Water security is one of the most pressing challenges of our time and is vital to the development of our society and economies. I applaud Alice officials for working together with the TWDB to invest in infrastructure for the city’s future growth and provide safe drinking water to the city’s residents.”

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and serves on the Senate Committees on Property Tax; Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture; and Select Committees on Redistricting and Texas Ports.

AUSTIN — Today, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick appointed Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa Vice-Chair of the Senate Committee on Redistricting, the committee that will draw state legislative and congressional districts during the upcoming 87th Texas Legislature.

Hinojosa also serves as Vice-Chair of the Senate Finance Committee and holds seats on the Agriculture, Natural Resources & Economic Development, Property Tax, Transportation, and Texas Ports committees.

“I am honored to be appointed Vice-Chair of the Senate Committee on Redistricting,” said Senator Hinojosa. “This is a great responsibility that requires objectivity and bipartisan cooperation. I will seek to draw fair legislative and congressional districts that truly represent the interests of our communities and accurately reflect our growing population. We must ensure that the voices of all Texans may be heard.”

Redistricting is generally done after the completion of the decennial federal census, with the next census to occur in 2020. Senator Hinojosa was previously appointed to the Senate Committee on Redistricting following the 2010 Census.

Some redistricting experts predict Texas will gain three congressional seats during this census cycle. With Texas consistently ranked as one of the fastest growing states in the country, redistricting is necessary to ensure that districts are properly apportioned and Texans have equal representation.

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and serves on the Senate Committees on Property Tax; Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture; and Select Committee on Texas Ports.

AUSTIN, TX — On Thursday, the Texas Transportation Commission held a meeting that included the announcement of the project designer selected for the US 83/US 281 Pharr Interchange Project in Hidalgo County. Dragados- Pulice, a joint venture comprised of Pulice Construction, Inc. and Dragados USA, Inc., with a design-build bid of $303 million, was the best value proposer and was selected as the project designer in charge of the interchange project. At this point, the final terms of the contract will be negotiated and execution is set to begin in August of 2019. The anticipated substantial completion of the project will be late 2022.

Senator Hinojosa issued the following statement:

“This action by the Texas Transportation Commission is one of the last steps before actual construction of the new interchange can begin. This project, when completed, will address current congestion problems, public safety concerns and will provide the infrastructure needed to continue the economic and population growth of the Rio Grande Valley.

I appreciate TxDOT leadership and the Commissioners for their strong commitment to the Pharr Interchange Project over the past few years. The completion of this project will be considered one of the largest investments in our region and will support the Valley’s economic future. The reconstruction of this key interchange will reduce congestion to keep people and goods moving, better prepare us for future growth, and also improve the quality of life for our RGV residents.”

The Pharr Interchange Project provides for full reconstruction of the US 83/US 281 interchange to include two-lane direct connectors in all four directions. The US 83 general purpose lanes will be reconstructed and/or widened from six to eight non-tolled general purpose lanes (four in each direction) from 2nd Street to the US 83/US 281 interchange, while operational improvements include the reconfiguration of main lane ramps on US 83 from 2nd Street to FM 2557 (S. Stewart Road) and improvements to the approaches and departures to and from the direct connectors along US 281 from Nolana Loop to US 83 in McAllen, Pharr, and San Juan, in Hidalgo County, Texas.

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and serves on the Senate Committees on Property Tax; Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture; and Select Committee on Texas Ports.

AUSTIN, TX – Today, the Texas Legislature adjourned Sine Die for the 86th Regular Session. Sine Die is the last day of the 140 days every-odd numbered year the Texas Legislature meets.

Senator Hinojosa issued the following statement:

“I am proud of what we accomplished this session for South Texas and the entire State. We reformed the public education funding system, provided property tax relief, made the Teacher Retirement System actuarially sound and gave our retirees a much needed 13th check. We also passed legislation and funded projects to aid in the recovery and relief to areas impacted by Hurricane Harvey. Overall, we had important legislative victories and crafted a balanced budget that takes care of Texans. This session I passed about 43 individual pieces of important legislation and secured millions of dollars for our priorities in the Rio Grande Valley and Coastal Bend regions.

The final state budget includes more than $11 billion in new funding for our public schools. This will include $5.9 billion for the classroom, of which $2 billion will be for an average $4,000 pay raise for our teachers. We also appropriated $5.3 billion to provide property tax relief by increasing the state share of public school funding from 38% to 45%. Examples of some of the funding items I was able to secure include $17 million for trauma infrastructure and preparedness, including funding for the first level 1 trauma center in the Rio Grande Valley, and $69 million for our medical school at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), including $2 million for the fight against cervical cancer. I was also able to secure $2.3 million for the Civil and Industrial Engineering program at Texas A&M- Corpus Christi (TAMUCC), and $40 million for infrastructure to improve access to and from our Texas ports.

This fiscally responsible budget invests in infrastructure, border security, healthcare, and our students, while paving the way for an educated and healthy workforce. The work done by the 86th Legislature will benefit all Texans and ensure the continued success of the Texas economy.”

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and serves on the Senate Committees on Property Tax; Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture; and Select Committee on Texas Ports.

AUSTIN – Today, Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa passed House Bill 306 by Representative Abel Herrero out of the Texas Senate. Also known as the Service Member and Veteran Open Burn Pit Registry Act, the bill would provide outreach, education, and awareness for our veterans facing health issues after exposure to open burn pit smoke and other airborne hazards.

In military conflicts since the First Gulf War, open burn pits were used to dispose of chemicals, munitions, and medical waste, exposing service members to dangerous toxins. Unfortunately, the long-term health effects from burn pit smoke are still not fully understood. In addition, there is no federal or state outreach effort to provide service members who may have resulting health problems with information on how to get assistance. The Service Member and Veteran Open Burn Pit Registry would help medical researchers track changes in health and get our veterans the benefits and information they and their families deserve.

Senator Hinojosa released the following statement:

“ The Service Member and Veteran Open Burn Pit Registry will facilitate outreach, education, and advocacy related to health concerns and diseases suffered by our soldiers and veterans as a result of exposure to toxic fumes. We must provide this tool to get a better understanding of the impact and consequences of this exposure to be able to better support those who served our country. I appreciate Rosie and Leroy Torres for their tireless commitment to this effort and for sharing their story with our legislators.”

Representative Herrero released the following statement:

 “Veterans who bravely fought for our country, only to develop debilitating illnesses when they came home, deserve answers and proper medical treatment. This legislation takes the initiative to facilitate critical awareness and outreach to veterans and their families feeling the devastating effects of exposure to open air burn pits. We must stand with our veterans in this war that has followed them home.”     

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and serves on the Senate Committees on Property Tax; Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture; and Select Committee on Texas Ports.

AUSTIN, TX — Today, Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa was joined by Cameron County Judge Eddie Trevino, City of Pharr Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, Hidalgo County Commissioner Eddie Cantu, and City of Brownsville Mayor Tony Martinez at the Texas Transportation Commission (Commission) meeting to officially present the Commissioners with the recently signed re-designation agreement for Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) consolidation. The agreement allows for the merging of the Harlingen-San Benito MPO, the Brownsville MPO, and the Hidalgo County MPO to create the new Rio Grande Valley MPO. This is the first time in Texas history that three MPOs are merging into one.

The Rio Grande Valley is one of the fastest growing regions of the state and the infrastructure must be able to support the growth. The merger of the MPOs will provide increased revenue to repair roads, provide congestion relief, maintain the highway system, and fund border projects to prevent loss of revenue at the international ports of entry.

Senator Hinojosa released the following statement:

“After three years from the time we started the conversation about merging the three Valley MPOs, I was honored to present the signed agreement to the Texas Transportation Commission. By taking this regional approach, the newly created Rio Grande Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization (the Valley MPO) will be one of the largest in the state. This merger will allow South Texas to access more funds to construct larger projects. The merged MPO will be more efficient and allow for projects to be considered and approved as a region.

This historic moment would not have been possible without the regional cooperation, collaboration, and negotiations that were pretty tense at times. However, in the end, the benefits of a merged MPO prevailed over a small city approach. With the creation of the Valley MPO, we have delivered on our commitment to speak with one voice. The Valley MPO will be a powerful advocate for addressing the infrastructure needs of South Texas that are required to continue being an economic driver for the state.

I appreciate the leadership, cooperation, and team work from all of our public officials involved in making this a reality. I also want to thank Governor Greg Abbott for his continued support of our region. Lastly, I want to recognize and commend TxDOT Pharr District Engineer Pete Alvarez for his commitment, guidance, and support throughout this process.”

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and serves on the Senate Committees on Property Tax; Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture; and Select Committee on Texas Ports.

AUSTIN, TX — Today, after much discussion and cooperation from Agua SUD leadership, Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa filed Senate Bill 2552, a local bill to strengthen the transparency and accountability of Agua SUD board members and personnel. SB 2552 would require that Agua SUD board of directors file financial statements and apply conflict of interest and nepotism laws to the directors. It also covers eligibility requirements for service as a director or general manager, including the disqualification of any person or his or her relative who owns or controls more than a 10% interest in the fair market value of a business that receives money from Agua SUD (the District).

SB 2552 also details prohibited conduct for directors and employees of the District. Among its specifications, it provides that a director or employee may not have a personal interest in an agreement executed by the District. The bill also provides the grounds for removal of a director from the board if a director does not complete training and education requirements, does not meet eligibility requirements for service, or participates in prohibited conduct under this bill.

Openness and transparency are essential to maintain the confidence of citizens in their government, as well as to ensure the ethical use of taxpayer funds. In an effort to be transparent and accountable to rate payers, SB 2552 would require the District to prominently post on its website reports showing payments made by Agua SUD on a monthly basis. Additionally, the District would be required to post the minutes of the previous meeting within 72 hours of adoption.

Senator Hinojosa is also working with District leadership to re-district the boundaries and allow for single member districts. This will ensure better representation from all cities within the District.

Senator Hinojosa released the following statement:

“I appreciate Agua SUD’s leadership working with me to develop this legislation to further increase transparency and accountability of this important utility district. The updated operating procedures, standards of conduct, budget transparency, and ethics guidelines recommended in this bill are important to ensure a strong governance structure with the highest level of integrity and accountability. I applaud Board President Zeke Ortiz and General Manager Eddie Saenz for their willingness to implement many of these recommendations into their procedures before this bill becomes law.”

Esequiel “Zeke” Ortiz, Jr., Agua SUD Board President releases the following statement:

“As board president of Agua SUD, we want to reassure the community that we are working together in close partnership with Senator Hinojosa on this legislation as another example of the Agua Board’s commitment to transparency in our governance of this utility district and fully support Senator Hinojosa in the proposed re-districting of the Board seats to provide a more equitable representation of all rate payers.”

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and serves on the Senate Committees on Property Tax; Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture; and Select Committee on Texas Ports.

AUSTIN, TX –  Today, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick announced Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa as one of only five Senate appointees to the Conference Committee on Senate Bill 500, the state’s supplemental appropriations bill for the 2018-19 biennium.

The Conference Committee will be responsible for funding the state’s unaddressed needs for the 2018-19 biennium, including expenditures necessitated by Hurricane Harvey, by reconciling the differences between the Senate and House versions. Senator Hinojosa released the following statement:

“I am honored to have been selected by Lt. Governor Patrick to serve on the Senate Conference Committee to SB 500, the state’s supplemental budget.

It is critical that the House and Senate work together to address important outstanding needs in our current budget such as health care, teacher retirement, school safety, public safety, and Hurricane Harvey damages.”

Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa proudly represents the counties of Nueces, Jim Wells, Brooks, and Hidalgo (part). Senator Hinojosa served as the Senate President Pro Tempore of the Texas Senate in the 84th Texas Legislature. Senator Hinojosa currently serves as Vice-Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, and serves on the Senate Committees on Natural Resources & Economic Development; Transportation; Agriculture, Water & Rural Affairs as well as the Sunset Advisory Commission.