April 12, 2023
(Austin, TX) — Today, State Representative Jared Patterson’s HB 90, known as the Bishop Evans Act, passed unanimously through the Texas House. The Bishop Evans Act, a priority bill by Speaker Dade Phelan, seeks to establish a $500,000 line of duty death benefit, clarify transportation coverage, expedite case reviews and benefits, and provide additional coverage for post-traumatic stress disorder for servicemembers under state active duty orders.
Yesterday, Rep. Patterson worked with his colleagues to draft several final improvements, including an amendment by Rep. Andrew Murr to make the benefits retroactive to March 6 th , 2021. By changing the effective date of the legislation, families who have lost loved ones in service on recent state active duty missions, such as Operation Lone Star, would now have the guaranteed death benefits made available. The bill now moves to the Texas Senate for final passage.
“I appreciate Representative Patterson for his great work on the Bishop Evans Act to ensure that Texas military members have access to benefits that better reflect their great service to our state,” Speaker Phelan said. “The death of Sgt. Bishop Evans last year showcased the need for some critical changes in coverage for our guardsmen, and I am proud of Representative Patterson for leading the charge on this legislation.”
“I want to thank Bishop Evans’ family for helping us craft this legislation in his honor and for coming all the way to Austin to join us for the bill’s passing.” stated Rep. Patterson. ”Bishop Evans gave his life in service to our state and nation. No state benefit can replace him to his family, but upon approval in the Senate, his legacy will stand forever in support of all Texas military families.”
Jared Patterson represents House District 106, which encompasses the eastern portion of Denton County. During the 86th and 87th Legislative Session, Patterson authored and passed initiatives in policy areas such as transportation, education, property taxes, as well as eliminated unnecessary and burdensome government regulations. Patterson serves on the House Committees on Calendars, Licensing and Administrative Procedures, and Transportation. He also serves on the Texas Cybersecurity Council. His family resides in Frisco.
