As the Chambers in Collin County work together to prepare for our trip to Austin in March, we're taking a deep dive into issues that will affect our communities. The biggest issue we are currently facing is the battle over balancing the budget. The only item the State Legislature must get done in the 140 days during regular session is pass a budget. It's not as simple as it might seem, especially when the state is facing a budget deficit and will need to make decisions about where to cut funding.
During our first information session held at the Collin Higher Education Center, former State Representative Jim Pitts walked the attendees through some of the differences between the Senate's introductory version of the budget and the House's introductory version. And there are some vast differences - about $8.5 Billion. At the time former Rep. Pitts spoke to our group, the Speaker of the House had not released the committee assignments. That step is important in the budgeting process so that the Appropriations Committee can be formed and begin their work on the budget. Since then the committee list has been released.
Click here to see committee assignments.
As changes continue to be made, you can see the highlights from both the Senate and the House version by visiting the
Legislative Budget Board website. The Chamber will continue to monitor and post updates to keep you informed as well.
For those interested in the next Information Session regarding workforce development and education, check out the panel of speakers and event info by
clicking here.
