Austin — Friday, state Senator Robert Nichols (R-Jacksonville) was reappointed by Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst to four Senate committees: Transportation and Homeland Security, Health and Human Services, Intergovernmental Relations, and Nominations.

"I am excited to build on my experience," said Nichols. "Each of these committees plays a significant role in the lives of Texans."

Nichols, who is in his second session as a legislator, not only draws on his experience of sitting on these committees last session but also from a wide variety of professional work and community service.

As a former Texas transportation commissioner, Nichols has much to contribute to the Transportation and Homeland Security Committee.

"There's no doubt transportation will be a critical issues this session," said Nichols. "Over the interim I worked with the committee and other stakeholders to develop better, more effective ways to plan for Texas' growing transportation needs."

Nichols, who sits on the board of East Texas Medical Center in Jacksonville and holds more than 30 medical related patents, specifically asked to be a member of the Health and Human Services Committee.

"About 30 percent of the state's budget goes to health and human service programs," said Nichols. "I want to work with the committee to make sure we invest in these programs efficiently to keep our state healthy and minimize the burden to taxpayers."

As a former city council member and mayor, Nichols brings an important perspective to his role as vice chair of Intergovernmental Relations, the committee which handles legislation affecting local levels of government.

Nichols also sits on the Transportation and Intergovernmental Relations Subcommittee on Flooding and Evacuations.

He also brings a unique perspective to his seat on Nominations. As a Texas Transportation Commissioner, Nichols sat before the committee in order to have his appointment confirmed.

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