The House Committee on S/C on Defense & Veterans' Affairs

89th Legislature

July 8, 2026

11:00 a.m.

San Antonio, Texas (see details below)

 

Pursuant to a notice posted on June 9, 2026, the House Committee on S/C on Defense & Veterans' Affairs met in a public hearing and was called to order by the chair, Representative Cortez, at 11:15 a.m.

 

The initial quorum call was answered as follows: Representatives Cortez; Dorazio; Hickland; Isaac; and Lopez, Ray.

 

A quorum was present.

 

 

The Chair made opening remarks.

 

Veteran Mental Health Programs

 

The committee took testimony on the following interim charge: Monitor the implementation of HB 114, relating to the transfer of functions relating to certain veteran mental health programs and plans to the Texas Veterans Commission. Conduct active oversight to ensure the efficient and effective transfer of authority, funding, personnel, and administrative responsibilities.

 

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

 

At 1:25 p.m., on the motion of the chair and without objection, the meeting was recessed for ten minutes.

 

The committee reconvened at 2:03 p.m. and was called to order by the chair, Representative Cortez.

 

The quorum call was answered as follows: Representatives Cortez; Dorazio; Hickland; Isaac; and Lopez, Ray.

 

A quorum was present.

 

Legal Representation for Texas Veterans

 

The committee took testimony on the following interim charge: Study access to legal representation for Texas veterans pursuing disability benefits claims and appeals in the federal veterans’ benefits system. Review the availability of assistance provided through the Texas Veterans Commission, nonprofit organizations, law school clinics, and pro bono attorneys. Identify barriers to representation in appeals before the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims and recommend strategies to improve coordination and access to legal assistance for Texas veterans.

 

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

 

(Representative Dorazio in chair.)

 

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

 

(Representative Cortez in chair.)

 

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

 

Redevelopment of Kelly Air Force Base

 

The committee took testimony on the Redevelopment of Kelly Air Force Base.

 

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

 

 

 

At 5:15 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. Cortez, Chair

 

 

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Samantha Pisik, Clerk