The House Committee on State Affairs

88th Legislature

September 30, 2024

9:00 a.m.

E2.016

Pursuant to a notice posted on August 19, 2024, the House Committee on State Affairs met in a public hearing and was called to order by the chair, Representative Hunter, at 9:01 a.m.

The initial quorum call was answered as follows: Representatives Hunter; Hernandez; Anchía; Dean; Geren; Guillen; Metcalf; Raymond; Slawson; Spiller; Thompson, Senfronia; and Turner.

A quorum was present.

The Chair made opening remarks.

The Chair recognized the passing of Texas Highway Patrol Trooper Kevin Alexis Ramirez Vasquez for his service with the Texas Department of Public Safety. The Chair offered condolences to Trooper Ramirez Vasquez and his family and honored Trooper Ramirez Vasquez with a moment of silence.

(Representative Smithee now present.)

(Representative Janie Lopez was also in attendance.)

The committee met to hear invited testimony only on the following interim charge:

Conduct a review of functions and operations of state agencies involved with carrying out Operation Lone Star as they relate to securing the border and preventing transnational criminal activity. Evaluate whether agencies have sufficient resources and authority to carry out their prescribed duties. Make recommendations to increase the safety and wellbeing of personnel and efficiency of agency operations as needed.

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

At 1:38 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. Hunter, Chair

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Margaux Fox, Clerk