By: Watson S.C.R. No. 81

SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The Legislature of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize Emmett Sheppard on the occasion of his retirement as president of the Texas American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO); and

WHEREAS, A former city councilman and mayor pro tempore in his hometown of Groves, Emmett Sheppard began his career in labor when he joined the Oil, Chemical, and Atomic Workers Local 4-23 while working for Gulf Oil Corporation; in 1982, he became president of the Sabine Area Central Labor Council and later won election as secretary-treasurer of Local 4-23; and

WHEREAS, He became legislative director of the Texas AFL-CIO in 1989 and went on to play an important role in the battles over workers' compensation and workplace safety issues in this state; in 1993, he was elected secretary-treasurer of the Texas AFL-CIO, a position he held until 2003, when he became president of the organization by acclamation; and

WHEREAS, In addition to his duties with the union, Mr. Sheppard has served his state and community in various other ways; he has held significant volunteer posts with the United Way, the March of Dimes, Junior Achievement, and Project SAFE Texas; and

WHEREAS, Emmett Sheppard has been a consistently strong and outspoken voice for the rights and interests of workers throughout the state; he is truly deserving of appreciation and admiration for his hard work and his many accomplishments; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the 80th Legislature of the State of Texas hereby commend Emmett Sheppard for his many years of service and outstanding leadership in the Texas AFL-CIO and extend to him best wishes for the retirement years ahead; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be prepared for him as an expression of high regard from the Texas Legislature.