AUSTIN -- Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, D-McAllen, was appointed vice-chair Thursday of the Administration Committee, and a member of three other committees: Natural Resources, Criminal Justice and Nominations.

Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst announced the appointments late Thursday.

"This is the most seasoned, experienced freshman class in the history of the Texas Senate, and Senator Hinojosa is a major reason," Dewhurst said. "Senator Hinojosa will bring a wealth of experience, especially in criminal justice reform and related issues, from his eight terms in the Texas House. I look forward to relying on his background and expertise as we address the challenges of this session."

Hinojosa said he was extremely pleased with the nominations.

"As vice chair of the Senate Administration Committee I, and the other committee members, will have oversight of the senate budget and the day to day operations," he said. "And as a member of the Criminal Justice Committee I will continue to work on reforming the criminal justice system to make sure we have a fair system in place."

Hinojosa said he was also looking forward to serving on the Natural Resources Committee. This Senate committee has jurisdiction on all matters concerning natural resources and the control of land and water development.

"Oil and gas are the main resources, not only for South Texas but for the state," Hinojosa said. "I also want to make sure that the environment is protected so that future Texans can live in a clean environment."

Sen. Hinojosa was also appointed by Lt. Gov. Dewhurst to the Senate Nominations Committee. This committee will consider all appointments nominated by Gov. Rick Perry for key state positions.

Sen. Hinojosa was sworn into the Texas Senate in January 2003. He served in the Texas House of Representatives from 1981 to 1991 and from 1997 to Jan. 14, 2003.

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