(AUSTIN) — Senator Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo, was sworn-in for a new term representing Senatorial District 21, which includes all or part of 16 counties, marking the official start of the 88th Texas Legislative Session. Constituents and family members participated in the Opening Day Ceremonies.

Senator Zaffirini has pre-filed 56 bills for the 2023 session, including measures that would allow power companies to connect to the national grid; provide a one-time, 10 percent cost of living adjustment with annual increases based on inflation for retired teachers and expand Medicaid services to persons earning at or below 138 percent of the federal poverty level (approximately $38,295 annually or $3,191.25 monthly for a family of four).

“My staff and I will continue to work with constituents, stakeholders, and my legislative colleagues during the next 140 days to pass legislation providing quality educational opportunities for our children, investing in infrastructure and transportation, creating jobs and strengthening the economy, conserving our environment, ensuring more affordable health care and increasing access to justice," Senator Zaffirini said.

First elected in 1986, the senator has received more than 1,000 awards and honors for her legislative, public service, and professional work. She is known for her 100 percent voting record in the Texas Senate, where she has cast 67,923 consecutive votes. In the 2021 Republican-dominated Texas Legislature, she passed more bills than any other legislator for the fourth consecutive session, a total of 106. In fact, she has passed more bills than any other legislator in the history of the state.

During the 88th Legislative Session, lawmakers will debate pressing issues that impact all Texans such as property tax relief, electric grid reliability and border security. Residents of Senate District 21 can count on Senator Zaffirini to continue to champion their needs and interests during these discussions.

Senator Zaffirini maintains an open door policy. Constituents may contact her or her staff, especially regarding their perspectives about legislation, via Judith.Zaffirini@senate.texas.gov and her district office (956/722-2293) or her Capitol office (512/463-0121).

Senator Judith Zaffirini of Laredo takes her Oath of Office as State Senator for District 21 amidst the other 30 members and with family at her side during the Opening Day Ceremonies of the 88th Texas Legislature. The Constitution requires everyone to run after redistricting. Senator Zaffirini is the second-highest ranking member and highest-ranking woman and Hispanic in the Texas Senate.

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