SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 641

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize Kelvin Bass, who is retiring as senior legislative aide and press secretary to State Senator Royce West after 25 years of outstanding service to the people of Texas; and

WHEREAS, Since joining Senator West's office in November of 1999, Mr. Bass has served as a trusted advisor and policy analyst providing expertise on a wide range of issues including criminal justice, public safety, and transportation; his work has played a vital role in the development of sound, forward-thinking public policy in the Texas Legislature; and

WHEREAS, A trailblazer in criminal justice policy, Mr. Bass helped shape and advance numerous legislative initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Texans; among his most impactful contributions are measures expanding access to record-clearing opportunities for individuals with dismissed or non-indicted charges, reforms to the handling of identity misuse in criminal cases, and policy improvements to support those who have been wrongfully convicted; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Bass was instrumental in crafting legislation that led to the adoption of Texas' statewide body-worn camera law, and he helped develop guidelines for law enforcement and driver interactions that are now included in the Community Safety Education Act; his work also resulted in practical reforms that modernized the state's vehicle inspection and registration process, improved the accuracy of insurance verification during traffic stops, and eliminated paper temporary license plates in favor of a more secure system; and

WHEREAS, Throughout his tenure, Mr. Bass collaborated closely with law enforcement, prosecutors, and community stakeholders to draft meaningful legislation that balanced justice, public services, and civil liberties; he served as a liaison to the media to clearly communicate legislative goals and priorities to the public, and his insight and professionalism earned him the respect of colleagues in both chambers and across political lines; and

WHEREAS, Kelvin Bass has been a powerful advocate for justice, equity, and transparency in public policy; his professional legacy is defined by his diligent leadership and principled commitment to service, and his deep understanding of the legislative process has improved lives, protected civil rights, and modernized public policy across Texas; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 89th Legislature, hereby commend Kelvin Bass on his distinguished career and service to the Lone Star State and extend to him best wishes for the future; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for him as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate.

West

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 31, 2025.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate