The House Committee on Defense & Veterans' Affairs

87th Legislature

July 20, 2022

9:00 a.m.

E2.028

 

Pursuant to a notice posted on July 7, 2022, revised on July 15, 2022, the House Committee on Defense & Veterans' Affairs met in a public hearing and was called to order by the chair, Representative Raymond, at 9:03 a.m.

 

The initial quorum call was answered as follows: Representatives Raymond; Buckley; Cyrier; and Lopez.

 

A quorum was present for the sole purpose of taking testimony, pursuant to Rule 4, Section 16A.

 

(Representative Gervin-Hawkins participating virtually, pursuant to Rule 4, Section 16A.)

 

(Representative Tinderholt now present.)

 

The Committee heard invited testimony on the following interim charges:

 

Complete study of assigned charges related to the Texas-Mexico border issued in June 2021

 

The committee received an update on Operation Lone Star from the Texas Military Department.

Invited testimony was heard from:   ·       Major General Thomas Suelzer, Adjutant General of Texas Military Department ·       Major General Win Burkett, Commanding General of the 36th Infantry Division and Border Task Force

 

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

 

(Representative Morales, Eddie participating virtually, pursuant to Rule 4, Section 16A.)

 

(Representative Biedermann participating virtually, pursuant to Rule 4, Section 16A.)

 

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

 

Examine programs and funding streams connected to services that improve mental health outcomes for servicemen and women suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).

 

Evaluate the needs of veterans and their families as they return to civilian life, including access to employment, education, housing, counseling, and mental health services. Make recommendations to ensure coordination between state agencies to create a positive environment for veterans transitioning back into communities across the state.

 

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

 

At 2:38 p.m., on the motion of the chair and without objection, the meeting was adjourned subject to the call of the chair.

 

 

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Rep. Raymond, Chair

 

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Andrew Harkey, Clerk