August 5, 2021
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Austin, TX) – Today, the Texas State Legislature hit at least $1 million spent on the first called special session of the 87th Legislature.
Governor Greg Abbott called the legislature back to Austin on July 8, 2021, but a majority of the Democrat members fled the state on the following Monday in an attempt to stop bills such as election integrity and bail reform from passing. The legislature is barred from conducting any business unless a quorum of at least 100 members is present. Other casualties of the Democrats’ shutdown are other important initiatives related to protecting life, property tax relief, funding for the foster care system, a 13th check for retired teachers, and funding for the legislature.
After the Democrats broke quorum, Rep. Patterson started keeping a daily tally of what Democrat members are costing taxpayers to fund the special session, which due to their actions, has been shut down. “I started keeping this tally because Texas taxpayers deserve to know what this Democrat walkout is costing them. By my numbers, their actions are costing the citizens of our state at least $43,330 per day – a teacher’s salary in some areas of the state,” stated Rep. Patterson.
He went on to say, “Today is day 29 of the special session and we haven’t been able to do the important work our constituents sent us to Austin to accomplish. That work includes important investments into border security, our foster care system and a sorely needed 13th check to retired teachers. Texas House Democrats who chose Congress over their constituents have now cost taxpayers more than $1 million. Their false crusade lying about the election integrity bill specifically, must end. The rest of us stand ready to accomplish the work of the people the moment they return.”
Jared Patterson represents House District 106, which encompasses the eastern portion of Denton County. During the 86th 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 Business & Industry, Calendars, and Homeland Security & Public Safety. He also serves on the Texas Cybersecurity Council. His family resides in Frisco.
