Austin — State Senator Robert Nichols (R-Jacksonville) today was appointed to the Sunset Advisory Committee by Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst.

"This selection is an honor," said Nichols. "The work done by the Sunset Advisory Committee is essential for maintaining transparency, accountability and efficiency in state government."

Other members selected for the committee include: Sen. Glenn Hager, who will serve as chairman; Sen. John Whitmire; Sen. Joan Huffman; and Mr. Charles McMahen from Schulenburg Texas who will serve as a public appointee.

"I want to thank all of these individuals for accepting appointments to this important commission," Lt. Governor Dewhurst said. "Some of our most critical state agencies are scheduled for review by the Sunset Advisory Commission, and I know these appointees will provide the leadership and knowledge necessary to ensure all aspects of agencies under review are evaluated."

Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa continues his service as a Senate appointee. He was appointed to the commission by Dewhurst in 2008.

The Sunset Advisory Commission was created by the Texas Legislature in 1977 and is made up of members of the Legislature and two representatives of the public. Its purpose is to review the operation and efficiency of more than 150 state agencies, with each agency typically subject to review every 12 years. For more information on the Sunset Advisory Commission, including a list of agencies scheduled for review in the 2010-2011 biennium, please visit www.sunset.state.tx.us.

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