Weekly Landline – 1.22.2025
January 22, 2025Weekly Landline – 2.12.2025
February 12, 2025Weekly Landline – 1.29.2025
Capitol Column
The Texas House voted on a rules package late last week that banned any Chair positions going to Democrats, but at the same time put Democrats in every vice-chair position. Combined with some additional procedural rules on the interaction and relationship between the Chair and the Vice-Chair it can be effectively argued that Republicans are in a weaker position for moving legislation than before the vote. Some other rules changes altered the makeup of several standing committees and moved others into subordinate roles as sub-committees. Of note is the addition of a new standing committee on efficiency in state government, but currently no multi-billionaire businessman standing in line to lead this one. Stay tuned.
On that note, we are all still waiting on the announcement for committee positions in the House.
The Senate meanwhile is hard at work in the Senate Finance Committee with budget hearings scheduled across the next couple of weeks. South Texas’ newest state senator, Adam Hinojosa, is off to an early start as a co-author on SB 2 which passed out of committee and is on the floor today. SB2 relates to the establishment of education savings accounts.
Most of you have seen the news clips that Lacy has posted in our News and Updates about Ileana Ranch in Zapata Co. The eminent domain nightmare that they have endured is testament to the need to continue our efforts to hold bad actors accountable. To that end, I started my week at the Capitol working with Senators West and Zaffirini to try to find a legislative fix to some of the problems facing the Ramirez family. Both senators have defended the ranch with TxDOT but feel there is more that needs to be done.
Below, you will find Mr. Ramirez’ response to my request for his thoughts on some specific action items that we might target legislatively. He and I both know that all of his suggestions, however appropriate, will not be implemented, but we have to start somewhere. I think most of you will fully empathize with his position.
Most importantly, please understand that, as a grassroots organization, we are driven by the needs of our members that you bring to our attention. Please hit the reply button now and share with us your thoughts on this issue or any other that is on your mind.
Till next week,
What’s on the Horizon
• From the Ranch to the Capitol Gathering in Bee Cave on February 5, 2025
• Future events in Rio Grande Valley & Houston
• 20th Annual Meeting & Fundraiser October 29, 2025 at Omni Corpus Christi
Welcome, Caroline!
Caroline Nunley was raised in Sabinal, Texas, where her family’s cow-calf operation is headquartered. From an early age, she was instilled with a deep respect for the land, wildlife, and agriculture. She graduated from Texas Christian University in 2015 with a degree in Strategic Communications. She lives in San Antonio and is a member of the Texas Wildlife Association’s Convention Committee. She also serves on the Game Species Subcommittee and co-chairs the Private Lands Subcommittee, which function under the newly established Stewards of the Wild Conservation Committee. Caroline’s appreciation for her ranching heritage drew her to STPRA’s mission, and she’s thrilled to be part of a group that shares similar values.
From the Ranch to the Capitol
| South Texans’ Property Rights Association invites you to celebrate the start of the 89th Legislative Session with an evening that bridges the gap between Texas landowners, policymakers, and community leaders. Join us on February 5, 2025, from 5–7 PM at Spanish Oaks in Bee Cave, TX, as we highlight the vital connection between rural challenges and legislative solutions. This gathering fosters meaningful relationships that shape the future of Texas, honoring the work of those who champion land stewardship and property rights at every level—from the ranch to the Capitol. |
| Spanish Oaks 13001 Spanish Oaks Club Drive, Bee Cave, TX 78738 |