AUSTIN, TX - Today, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick announced Senate committee assignments for the 85th Legislative Session. Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa will serve as Vice Chair of the Senate Finance Committee and the Senate Transportation Committee. He will continue his appointments to the Senate Committees on Natural Resources and Economic Development, and Agriculture, Water and Rural Affairs. He also continues to serve on the Sunset Advisory Commission.

Senator Hinojosa's continued appointment as Vice Chair of Senate Finance and his new appointment to the Transportation Committee secures his influential leadership position and his significant impact on the state budget-writing process that will benefit our South Texas region.

Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa issued the following statement:

"I am honored to serve as Vice Chair of Senate Finance and that Lt. Governor Patrick has entrusted me with these important responsibilities. I am also looking forward to serving on the Transportation Committee, as transportation is the lifeblood of our economy.

South Texas is increasingly playing a larger role in shaping our state's future and I am committed to protecting funds for our local communities. There is no question that this session will be challenging as state revenues are much lower than in past years. However, we must fund education and essential healthcare services, invest in our youth and workforce through education and skills training, create more jobs, and invest in the infrastructure we need for future success.

Through these appointments I am able to put South Texas at the forefront of critical discussions and negotiations that will take place this session. I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues to bring forth viable solutions that will benefit our Texas families."

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