Jim Dunnam - State Representative

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Legislative Budget Board Sets Reductions - (2010-05-24)
Legislative Budget Board Approves Reductions Yesterday the Legislative Budget Board approved $1.2 billion in budget reductions at state agencies. Governor Perry praised the cuts, saying "Every penny we save now in the 2010-11 biennium is one penny closer to balancing the budget in the next legislative session." Coincidently, Governor Perry rejected the exact same amount of federal dollars over the past year. Here's the math: $500 million Unemployment Insurance Compensation to prevent a tax hike on Texas businesses $700 million Race To The Top Education Dollars to improve Texas public schools $1.2 billion &nbs
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Rep. Dunnam Calls for more of House Leadership - (2010-05-17)
Last week, Appropriations Chair Jim Pitts publicly stated that he expects the gap in the 2010-11 budget to hit $18 billion. While there are many causes for this deficit, including the long-term structural deficit conceived and implemented by Governor Perry and Tom Craddick and recent shortfalls in sales tax collections, there is only one major conclusion: Texas lawmakers will have to adopt a multi-faceted approach to balancing the budget next session. House Speaker Joe Straus took an unusual (many observers say "unprecedented") step of addressing the Appropriations Committee in person from the committee dais. From his perch, he flatly declared that the budget gap created by seven years of Perry-Craddick budgeting must be filled without a tax bill -- not even a tax bill that closes loopholes and other gimmicks used by big business to force higher taxes on working Texans. And while it is easy to rally quick political support by banning all tax bills, it really doesn't hold water in the long-term. Case-in-point: in 2003, Texas faced a $15.6 billion revenue shortfall. Republicans cut 250,000 children of working families off of CHIP, deregulated college tuition, raised fees for everything from hunting licenses to license plates, pushed the costs of state government down to the local level as unfunded mandates, and bonded everything that didn't move. The Republican leadership failed to address the real causes of the budget gap in 2003 and again in 2006 when they passed the new "margins" tax. And evidently that is the Republican template for 2011. Straus also discussed a four-day workweek and required furloughs fo
Read More ›› by: - 2010-05-17 comments Category: State Budget, Tags: State Budget, Rick Perry,

Jim Dunnam Vows to Limit the Governor's Extravagant Spending on Housing - (2010-05-17)

Legislator announces a bill that would cap the amount of taxpayer dollars that the governor can spend on housing

Recent reports on Governor Rick Perry’s rental mansion have led one Texas lawmaker to call for reform. State Representative Jim Dunnam, the House Democratic Leader, announced today that he will pre-file legislation to limit the amount of taxpayer dollars available to the Governor to cover living expenses while in office.

“Texas will face an $18 billion budget deficit next session,” said Dunnam. “As working families across Texas tighten their belts, I believe that the Governor should limit his wasteful spending of taxpayer dollars.”

Dunnam’s bill would cap the amount that a Texas Governor is permitted to spend on rent, utilities and upkeep to 200% of the average rent for a reasonably-sized apartment in downtown Austin, excluding all security costs. The definition of “reasonably-sized” and “downtown”, as well as the exact dollar amount, would be determined by the State Preservation Board.

“The Governor would still have access to double the dollars that the average renter pays to live downtown,” said Dunnam. “But at least taxpayers won’t be charged over $10,000 a month to house their Governor.”

by: - 2010-05-17 comments

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Tags: Rick Perry,

Jim Dunnam Responds to Gambling in Texas - (2010-05-04)
Representative Dunnam Calls for a Bi-Partisan Committee to Examine Gambling in Texas There is an elephant in the room these days - gambling. We all know we are headed for an enormous deficit next session, and various groups are working behind the scenes for and against gambling. The options being advocated quietly are wide in range, but the issue is really not being given the public vetting that it deserves, especially given the enormous fiscal and social implications for our state. Speaker Straus has committed to remaining uninvolved in the process because of his conflict of interest. This position is as it should be, and he is simply complying with his written pledge. But since the Speaker has a conflict, he is unable to act on this issue. There is not even an interim charge that directly or indirectl
Read More ›› by: - 2010-05-04 comments Category: No category found Tags: No tags found

Rep. Jim Dunnam Comments on Perry's Use of a Firearm Near His Rental Mansion - (2010-04-29)
Statement on Governor Rick Perry's Latest Controversy This week, Governor Rick Perry claimed to have fired a handgun to kill a coyote near his rental mansion, leading many to ask if his action violates city and state law. The answer depends on whether Perry's rental mansion and the surrounding area are within Austin city limits or in an unincorporated area of Travis County. In response to the controversy, Representative Jim Dunnam issued the following statements in response: "Aside from the whole claim being a bit suspect to anyone who knows how coyotes really act and hunt, frankly, I'm more interested in the fact that Perry is spending 9,000 taxpayer dollars each month on his rental mansion. It may not seem like a lot to the Governor, but that money could go a long way in my district." "Rick Perry and the Republican leadership have asked nearly every state agency to cut its budget by 5 percent - all with serious consequences for Texas families. It's amazing that during these difficult financial times, Governor Perry thinks it's appropriate to continue spending taxpayer dollars on a mansion with a heated pool, a cabana, and a full outdoor kitchen. I want to talk about what how those dollars could be used to improve our state. Next
Read More ›› by: - 2010-04-29 comments Category: No category found Tags: Rick Perry,

Rep. Dunnam to Gov. Perry: Texas Businesses Still Paying for Your Bad Decisions - (2010-04-27)
Dunnam to Perry: Texas Businesses Still Paying for Your Bad Decisions Yesterday the Texas Workforce Commission reported that it will be forced to raise the unemployment tax rate on Texas businesses and issue roughly $2 billion in bonds to fund services for unemployed Texans. This comes on top of a $1.7 billion loan from the federal government and a major unemployment tax rate increase last December. "Texas is in this situation because of Rick Perry's decisions," said Representative Jim Dunnam. "He had an opportunity to reduce the strain on the unemployment trust fund, but campaigning and politicking are more important to the Governor than common sense and fiscal responsibility." Dunnam is referring to Perry's decision to reject approximately $555 million in unemployment benefits offered to Texas through the federal stimulus plan. Although Perry accepted over $16 billion in stimulus dollars from the federal government last year, he rejected the unemployment benefit money, claiming that it came with 'strings attached.'
Read More ›› by: - 2010-04-27 comments Category: State Budget, Tags: Stimulus,

With TDI Sunset Next Session, Prior Approval is the Only Viable Fix - (2010-04-15)

State Farm Heads To Court, Lawmakers Continue Push For Real Reform

State Farm Insurance is taking the state of Texas to court today, suing to keep the Texas Department of Insurance from publicizing documents related to their recent rate hikes. This latest attack on the state and its homeowners has prompted House and Senate lawmakers to join together to ensure that the Texas Department of Insurance Sunset process next session puts policyholders first.

“Recent news reports and rate hikes make it clear that we have a big job ahead of us, but we are committed to getting the job done,” said Leticia Van de Putte, Senate Democratic Caucus Chairwoman and Jim Dunnam, House Democratic Leader. “Texas families deserve real relief that ensures good protection and fair claims handling from their insurance company at a price they can afford.”

Comprehensive insurance reform is needed and the Sunset process provides the only opportunity to bring balance back to the insurance marketplace for hard working Texas families who are struggling to make ends meet. Texans need relief from skyrocketing insurance rates and abusive claims handling practices.

by: - 2010-04-15 comments

Category: Insurance,
Tags: Insurance,

Jim Dunnam Encourages locals to trade in their old appliances for new energy-efficient models - (2010-04-02)
Representative Dunnam Announces Appliance Rebate Program Today, State Representative Jim Dunnam took time to inform locals about the upcoming Texas Trade Up Appliance Rebate Program. From April 16-25, Texas residents who participate in the program and replace an old appliance with a new, energy-efficient model will receive a rebate based on the type and model of the appliance. Interested citizens are encouraged to reserve their spot by signing up on April 7th at www.TexasPowerfulSmart.org or via phone at (877) 780-3039. "If you need to replace an old refrigerator or dishwasher or even a major appliance like a central air conditioner, now is a great time," said Representative Dunnam. "If you participate in the Trade Up Program, you can get an energy-efficient model and a large rebate. It's win-win." The Texas Trade Up Appliance Rebate Program is paid for by the federal stimulus fund and aims to stimulate the economy and increase energy conservation in Texas. Texas Trade Up rebates will be offered for eight eligible appliance categories: central air conditioners, clothes washers, dishwashers, freezers, air-source heat pumps, hot water heaters, refrigerators, and room air conditioners. "It is the first program of its kind in our state," said Dunnam. "It's go
Read More ›› by: - 2010-04-02 comments Category: Energy, Tags: Rebate, Appliance,

State Representatives Coleman, Dunnam, Farrar, and Gallego on State Farm Lawsuit - (2010-03-31)
Statement on State Farm's Suit Against the Texas Department of Insurance Today, it was reported that State Farm Insurance filed a lawsuit against the Texas Department of Insurance to stop the online posting of the company's public information detailing State Farm's plans to raise its rates on Texas homeowners. Representatives Coleman, Dunnam, Farrar and Gallego issued the following statement in response: "State Farm covers 30% of the homeowners insurance market in Texas. Instead of worrying about the impact of drastically hiking rates on their customers, they are worried about their competitors and the public learning the true motivation behind those hikes. Rate filings are public information, and we applaud TDI for taking steps like this to bring transparency to the process and put pressure on State Farm. This is one more reason why TDI sunset legislation should be one of the top priorities next session. We will join with our Democratic colleagues from across the state to once again file legislation that will give TDI the tools they need to stop these egregious hikes and better advocate on behalf of consumers."
Read More ›› by: - 2010-03-31 comments Category: Insurance, Tags: Insurance, State Farm,

Rep. Dunnam Comments on TX Spending on Weatherizing Homes - (2010-03-31)
Texas slow to spend stimulus money on weatherizing homes of poor, elderly By RANDY LEE LOFTIS / The Dallas Morning News Winter has passed, but the state's pace of spending federal stimulus money to weatherize poor Texans' homes is just starting to heat up. Under the 2009 federal stimulus bill, Texas received $327 million from the Department of Energy to help armor 33,908 homes of low-income or elderly people against the cold and heat. Texas must spend the money by March 2012 or lose it. A review in December found that in the first four months, the state had spent only $1.8 million and completed work on just seven homes.
Read More ›› by: Randy Lee Loftis - 2010-03-31 comments Category: State Spending, Tags: No tags found

Jim Dunnam to Lead a Study on Toll Roads in Texas - (2010-03-24)
Representative Jim Dunnam Selected to Chair Important Transportation Subcommittee This week House Transportation Committee Chairman Joe Pickett announced the appointment of State Representative Jim Dunnam to chair a new subcommittee on toll roads. The subcommittee will study the policies and procedures used in the development of toll roads and make recommendations for future legislation. "Jim has extensive experience dealing with the issue of toll roads in Texas," said Pickett. "He really understands how Texans feel about them, and he has demonstrated a willingness to ask the tough questions; and now is the time for tough questions." Toll roads in Texas have been a major legislative issue since Governor Rick Perry announced his plan to build that Trans Texas Corridor (TTC) in 2002. In response to widespread public opposition, the Legislature placed a moratorium on Comprehensive Development Agreements (CDAs) - the type of contract used to build private toll roads like the TTC. During the 2009 session, the Texas Department of Transportation declared Perry's plan dead, and the Legislature banned new CDAs.
Read More ›› by: - 2010-03-24 comments Category: Transportation, Tags: Transportation, TxDot,

Jim Dunnam Announces Committee to Tighten Oversight on Stimulus Expenditures - (2010-03-18)
Jim Dunnam appoints Subcommittees on Education, Energy and Transportation As part of the work of the House Select Committee on Federal Economic Stabilization Funding, Chairman Jim Dunnam announced the formation of three subcommittees today to more tightly focus oversight on Stimulus expenditures in the areas of Education, Energy and Transportation. Representative Carol Kent of Dallas will chair the Education Subcommittee, which will include Representatives Garnet Coleman of Houston and Vicki Truitt of Keller. Representative Solomon Ortiz, Jr. of Corpus Christi will chair the Energy Subcommittee, along with members Jim Pitts of Waxahachie and Craig Eiland of Galveston. The Transportation Subcommittee will be chaired by Representative Drew Darby of San Angelo, and include Representatives Kent and Myra Crownover of Denton.
Read More ›› by: - 2010-03-18 comments Category: Energy, Transportation, Public Education, Tags: Energy, Transportation, Public Education,

State Reps. Coleman, Dunnam, Farrar, Gallego and Naishtat Call for Meaningful Insurance Reform - (2010-03-17)
House Democrats Rebuke Republican Policiticans for Recent Insurance Rate Hikes Today, five members of the House Democratic Caucus responded to the announcement of a 4.5 percent rate increase on homeowners insurance at State Farm Insurance. The company, which provides nearly 30 percent of Texas' homeowners' coverage, already raised rates by 8.8 percent last October. The legislators point to Republican inaction in recent years to explain the recent increases. "Governor Perry and his Republican allies in the House failed to protect Texas homeowners," said House Democratic Leader Jim Dunnam of Waco. "Because of them, the Texas Department of Insurance was not properly reviewed, and real insurance reform did not happen. That's why we're in this mess now." "I filed a bill that would have protected homeowners from such staggering increases and kept this from happening," said Representative Garnet Coleman of Houston. "Governor Perry and his allies in the Legislature are content to let insurance companies run roughshod over homeowners during the worst recession in a generati
Read More ›› by: - 2010-03-17 comments Category: Insurance, Tags: Insurance,

Jim Dunnam Discusses Private Toll Roads - (2010-03-15)
Governor Perry Still Won't Give Up On Private Toll Roads You can't say that Perry isn't persistent. Despite criticism from constituents and legislators alike, Governor Perry still won't give up on toll roads in Texas. Perry's plan for the Trans-Texas Corridor led to public outrage and a legislative moratorium on private toll roads in 2007. During the most recent special session, the House sent a clear message to Governor Perry by failing to adopt House Bill 3, which would have allowed Texas to continue entering into Comprehensive Development Agreements (aka public-private partnerships) to build toll roads. With this action, we said: "No more private toll roads in Texas." But the Governor will not listen to our pleas. In a recent memo, Perry's TxDOT encouraged the federal government to continue aggressively funding a program called the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA). The memo stated, "…certain federal programs, such as the TIFIA program, should be funded with increased vigor." We closed the
Read More ›› by: - 2010-03-15 comments Category: Transportation, Tags: Transportation, Rick Perry,

Jim Dunnam Discusses Recent Rate Hikes by the State's Largest Insurance Provider - (2010-03-11)
Jim Dunnam Calls for Insurance Reform in Texas Last October, our largest insurance provider - State Farm - raised Texas homeowners' coverage by 8.8%. In May, the company, which provides almost 30 percent of homeowner insurance in Texas, will increase rates by another 4.5%. These are unacceptable burdens on Texas families - but there is nothing that our state insurance department can do to stop them. It's time it is given the tools to say, "Enough is enough." The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) was created to regulate the insurance industry, but it does little to protect insurance consumers. The major problem is TDI's regulatory structure, which lacks the authority to block rate hikes by insurance providers. Under the current system, known as 'file and use,' an insurer like State Farm is merely required to inform TDI before a rate increase. They are not required to justify it to TDI or policyholders. The consequences are devastating: Texas has the highest homeowner insurance rates in the country. It is XX above the national average. Dramatic rate increases do more than burden policyholders; they also destabilize the market and reduce competition among providers.
Read More ›› by: - 2010-03-11 comments Category: Insurance, Tags: Insurance,

Jim Dunnam Welcomes New House Members - (2010-03-08)
Welcome New Members Congratulates to every House candidate who won in the Democratic primaries on Tuesday. The House Democratic Caucus would like to welcome the five new Democratic Representatives-elect who will not face major party opposition in November: State Representative, District 27 (Missouri City) – Ron Reynolds State Representative, District 36 (Mission) – Sergio Munoz State Representative, District 43 (Kingsville) – J.M. Lozano State Representative, District 100 (Dallas) – Eric Johnson State Representative, District 146 (Houston) – Borris Miles
Read More ›› by: - 2010-03-08 comments Category: House Democratic Caucus, Tags: No tags found

Rep. Dunnam Comments on Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission - (2010-01-29)
Ruling: 'A Raging Flashflood of Corporate Money' BY RICHARD WHITTAKER It has been called the worst court decision since Chief Justice Roger B. Taney told Dred Scott that African-Americans could not be U.S. citizens and the most intellectually dishonest since the Texas 3rd Court of Appeals said checks aren't money. On Jan. 21, the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission dismantled key restrictions in the 2002 McCain-Feingold Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act on the role of corporations and unions in election campaigns. Now politicians and ethicists are examining the 183-page ruling's impact on Texas. The decision deals not with campaign donations but instead with money spent independently by special-interest groups. In a 5-4 decision split along party lines, the court ruled that the Federal Election Commission should not have restricted conservative pressure group Citizens United from using its operating budget to promote Hillary: The Movie, its 2008 feature-length attack ad on then-presidential primary candidate Hillary Clinton. Elizabeth McClellan, program associate for the Texas Public Interest Research Group, said the decision will see "the landscape of elections financing washed away in a raging flashflood of corpo
Read More ›› by: Richard Whittaker - 2010-01-29 comments Category: No category found Tags: Citizens United v. FEC, Campaign Finance,

Jim Dunnam Calls for a Bi-Partisan Panel on Corporate Campaign Finance - (2010-01-22)
Local Representative pushes for a balanced study of necessary changes Today, State Representative Jim Dunnam called for the appointment of a committee to study the impact of a recent U.S. Supreme Court opinion on the campaign finance system of Texas. In a letter to House Speaker Joe Straus, Dunnam pushed for a bi-partisan investigation of the effects of the Court's decision on the Texas election code and the possibility of campaign finance legislation next session. "Independent, nonpartisan polling has consistently shown that Texans believe that campaign finance is a high priority issue," wrote Dunnam. "A balanced examination of the issue and a measured response that preserves Texas's public policy as expressed in our statutes is the least they deserve." <
Read More ›› by: - 2010-01-22 comments Category: No category found Tags: Citizens United v. FEC, campaign finance,

Jim Dunnam Comments on Governor Perry's Decision to Not Compete For Race to the Top Education Funds - (2010-01-13)
Chairman of the Select Committee talks about its impact on public schools in Texas State Representative Jim Dunnam (D-Waco), Chairman of the House Select Committee on Federal Economic Stabilization Funding, released the following statement in response to Governor Perry's decision to not apply for federal "Race to the Top" education dollars: By throwing in the towel before the competition has even begun, Governor Perry has officially won the race to the bottom. The Governor and I have our policy differences - I passed a moratorium on the expansion of charter schools in 2001 while he actively pressured members to vote against it. I criticized him in 2005 when he used federal funds to create a divisive teacher incentive pay program. However, the one thing that he and I should both agree on is that our schools need as much support as possible. There's a pot of as much as $700 million dollars in grant money that the Governor doesn't want our state to compete for.
Read More ›› by: - 2010-01-13 comments Category: Public Education, Higher Education, Tags: Public Education, Higher Education,

Jim Dunnam Announces Re-Election Bid - (2010-01-04)
Local Representative will seek another term As expected, Representative Jim Dunnam today formally announced that he will be seeking re-election in 2010. Dunnam hopes to continue representing House District 57, comprised of Falls, Leon, Madison, Robertson, and part of McLennan counties, for another two-year term. The announcement was coupled with the launch of his updated campaign website, www.jimdunnam.com. Dunnam says his campaign strategy is simple. He will focus on his accomplishments in District 57 and across the state. "I'm not going to be making elaborate promises," said Dunnam. "If re-elected, I will continue to do what I've done for the past seven sessions -- represent the views of my constituents in Austin and worked to improve our community and our state." Dunnam focuses on improving local schools and public safety, encouraging job growth and economic development, increasing access to affordable health care, and protecting the environment. Routinely named one of the Texas House’s most influential and powerful members, Jim currently chairs the Select Committee on Federal Economic Stabilization Funding, serves on the Committees on Transportation and Environmental Regulations, and is the leader of the 73-member Texas House Democratic Caucus. "Since the Legislature wrapped up in May, I've been visiting with my constituents about the issues," said Dunnam. "I hope I will again get chance to return to Austin for another turn and continue advocating on their behalf." More information on Rep. Dunnam's accomplishments and other matters are available on his website, www.jimdunnam.com. Interested parties are also encouraged to contact his office at (512) 463-0508.
Read More ›› by: - 2010-01-04 comments Category: No category found Tags: Election 2010,

Jim Dunnam Discusses School Curriculum - (2009-12-03)
Op-Ed: What Should Be Required for High School Graduation? Whether I'm out in the district talking to constituents, on the floor of the Texas House, or at home with my kids, everyone has something to say about high school graduation requirements. In recent years, the state has mandated more and more courses, leading to our current situation - four mandatory years of English, math, science, and social studies and strict elective requirements for most students. This approach has raised concerns about course flexibility, the opportunity for vocational training, and the lack of local input. It's my opinion that rigid course requirements are not good for our students. Our schools need to accommodate all of our children - whether they're aiming for a four-year university, a community college, a technical school, or a high school diploma. Remember that Texas has three pathways to graduation: Minimum HSP, Recommended HSP and Distinguished Achievement Program. Students pursuing the Minimum plan are required to complete 4 credits of English, 3 of math, 2 of science and 2½ of social studies as core curriculum. The Recommended and Distinguished plans require the four-by-four curriculum plus additional academic courses such as foreign language. Last session, I voted to pass a major public education bill that begins to scale back course requirements. House Bill 3 adds flexibility to the state's "Recommended" program by re
Read More ›› by: - 2009-12-03 comments Category: Public Education, Tags: Public Education,

Jim Dunnam Calls for a Special Session - (2009-11-24)
House Democratic Leader strives to fulfill his commitment to retired teachers Jim Dunnam, the Texas House of Representatives Democratic Leader, on Tuesday called on Governor Perry to call a special session to allow the Legislature to fulfill its commitment to retired teachers and state employees and give them the $500 one time supplemental payment we intended for them to receive. Texas Attorney General, Greg Abbott, on Monday issued an opinion (GA-0746) that effectively denies the supplemental payment the 81st Texas Legislature approved in May 2009. The Attorney General's ruling states that since the General Appropriations Act requires a "conclusive opinion that such one-time payments are constitutionally and statutorily permissible" and because the appropriation raises questions about compliance with article III, sections 44 and 53 of the Texas Constitution, it is "Impossible for us to conclusively opine that such payments are constitutionally and statutorily permissible." As a result, Senate Bill 1 of the General Appropriations Act (GAA) will instead increase the state contribution rate to the Teacher Retirement System of Texas. In May 2009, the Texas Legislature approved a one-time supplemental payment of up to $500 for certain TRS retires. The legislation stated that if the Attorney General did not rule that the payments were constitutionally and statutorily permissible, the amounts would be transferred to the teacher Retirement System to increase the state contribution rate.
Read More ›› by: - 2009-11-24 comments Category: Public Education, Tags: Rick Perry, Retired Teachers, 13th Check, Public Education,

Jim Dunnam Discusses Transportation Funding - (2009-11-20)

Op-Ed: How will we pay for new roads?

The just announced and long overdue expansion of I-35 to six lanes in Central Texas bears significance that cannot be understated. For everyone, it means safer and more efficient state and national infrastructure. For Waco and the surrounding communities in particular, it means local jobs and economic growth. During a time of clear and often justified frustration with government, it’s nice to have government be responsive to local needs. However, the announcement also highlights a big problem we face - Texas is rapidly running out of money for new road construction.

Our gas tax pays for Texas roads. Texas used to be “pay as you go”, meaning we only built what we could pay for at the time. In 2003, Texas started building roads with bonds secured by future gas tax receipts. The argument is that because of rising construction costs, it’s cheaper to build roads at today’s costs with tomorrow’s dollars rather than later when they are more expensive to build.

by: - 2009-11-20 comments

Category: Transportation, ,
Tags: Transportation, Road Construction, TxDOT, I-35,

Jim Dunnam Applauds I-35 Expansion in Central Texas - (2009-11-19)

New highway project will expand I-35 to six lanes between Salado and Hillsboro

Today local State Representative Jim Dunnam applauded TxDOT's vote to expand Interstate 35 to six lanes between Salado and Hillsboro, including most of McLennan County. The Texas Transportation Commission voted Thursday to approve the expansion, which had been recommended by TxDOT staff. The project has been in the works for many years.

"This stretch of I-35 is incredibly dangerous right now," said Rep. Dunnam. "There are accidents every single day. That is why I have worked so hard to make sure this project happens. We've needed six lanes here for a long time."

The I-35 expansion is one of many highway projects approved by the Texas Transportation Commission Thursday. The projects will be funded by Proposition 12 bond proceeds, which were approved by the voters in 2007 and by the Legislature earlier this year.

by: - 2009-11-19 comments

Category: Transportation,
Tags: Transportation, TxDOT, I-35,

Jim Dunnam Announces Cash for College Booklet for Texas Students - (2009-11-13)
Representative hopes booklet will make college more affordable for families Today, State Representative Jim Dunnam announced the publication of CASH FOR COLLEGE, 6^th Edition. CASH FOR COLLEGE is a comprehensive guide of scholarships, grants and loans for college students. The booklet, which now runs over 127 pages, contains information on the importance of a college education, types of financial aid, tips on applying for financial assistance and over 100 pages of specific scholarships, grants and loan programs offered at the national, state and local level. Rep. Dunnam first began publishing and distributing CASH FOR COLLEGE in 1999. Over the past ten years, Jim has distributed over 75,000 copies of the guidebook locally. Each year, the guide is updated with the help of local high school counselors, with a goal of providing college-bound individuals with an in-depth resource to fight the mounting costs of a college education. This update is particularly useful this year, as tuition rates are raising all over the nation, especially in Texas. CASH FOR COLLEGE is a cooperative effort by Rep. Dunnam and the Austin American Statesman. In the past, CASH FOR COLLEGE focused locally on McLennan County seniors and colleges. The 6^th Edition has been expanded to add sections on scholarships
Read More ›› by: - 2009-11-13 comments Category: Public Education, Higher Education, Tags: Public Education, Higher Education, College Tuition,

Jim Dunnam Celebrates Veterans' Day - (2009-11-11)

Local Representative spends the day honoring local veterans and discussing recent legislation

On Wednesday, State Representative Jim Dunnam attended the Waco-McLennan County Veterans' Day Parade. He spent the day visiting with local veterans about their service and discussing new laws passed by the Texas Legislature last session.

"In my eyes, no one is more deserving of our respect that the nearly 1.7 million veterans living in our state," said Dunnam. "I know that it is my duty in the Legislature to get them the benefits, services, and recognition that they deserve."

During the recent constitutional election on November 3rd, two propositions were approved by Texas voters related to veterans' affairs. Proposition 6 empowers the Veteran' Land Board to continue financing land purchases and home mortgages for Texas veterans at lower-than-market rates. Proposition 8 allows the state to contribute resources to establish and maintain veterans' hospitals in Texas.

by: - 2009-11-11 comments

Category: Veterans Affairs,
Tags: Veterans Affairs, Constitutional Amendments,

Jim Dunnam Discusses Constitutional Election Results - (2009-11-04)
Dunnam looks at the numbers in District 57 and across the state On Tuesday, Texas voters approved all 11 proposed amendments to the state constitution. While each passed by at least a ten percentage point margin on the state level, many of the propositions were not strongly supported across District 57, an area composed of Falls, Leon, Madison, Robertson and part of McLennan counties. "Not all of our results match up with the statewide results," said Representative Jim Dunnam, who represents District 57 in the Texas House. "If you look at the numbers, it's easy to see that many of the voters in our area were opposed to a few of the propositions." Possibly the most controversial amendment - Prop. 1, which allows city-owned buffer zones around military bases - passed with a ten-point margin on the state level but lost significantly in Falls, Leon, Madison and Robertson counties. In Leon, the most extreme case, the results were around 31% in favor and 69% against the proposition. "It's not unusual to see these kind of results from time to time," said Dunnam. "I focus on the highlights of the election, the things that will really affect our lives here." Representative Dunnam is referring to the most popular amendment of the election - Prop. 11, which restricts government use of eminent domain - which was overwhelmingly supported in District 57. It was approved in all five counties by over 80 percent. "It prohibits the government from taking property to build a new shopping center," said Dunnam. "This is a key protection of private property, and it was long overdue." Other approved propositions concern funding for emerging research universities, regulations for property appraisals, veterans' services and the right to access public beaches.&n
Read More ›› by: - 2009-11-04 comments Category: Constitutional Election, Tags: Constitutional Amendments,

Jim Dunnam Discusses the Proposed Constitutional Amendments - (2009-11-01)
Representatives explains the decisions voters will face at the polls on November 3rd On November 3rd, Texans voters will be asked to approve or reject 11 proposed state constitutional amendments. These amendments address a wide variety of issues and can be difficult to understand. Voters are encouraged to call Representative Dunnam's office at (512) 463-0508 with questions or comments. Proposition 11 is one of the most significant amendments on the ballot because it contains a major change to the controversial practice of eminent domain. Proposition 11 would limit eminent domain by prohibiting the taking of property for the primary purpose of economic development or the enhancement of tax revenues. It would add a key protection of private property to the Texas constitution.
Read More ›› by: - 2009-11-01 comments Category: Constitutional Election, Tags: Constitutional Amendments,

Jim Dunnam Discusses the State Budget - (2009-10-27)
Op-Ed: Texas a fiscal wonderlad? Now that's pure fantasy Thru the Looking Glass with David Dewhurst and Rick Perry Up is down. Left is right. Black is white. It applies to Alice once she fell down that hole and walked through the looking glass. It applies equally to our Republican leadership in Texas. Watching Gov. Rick Perry and Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst accept and spend President Barack Obama's stimulus money like drunken sailors then attempt to hide/rationalize/deny/avoid that fact, is getting more and more surreal and humorous — and more and more sad. <
Read More ›› by: - 2009-10-27 comments Category: State Budget, Tags: State Budget, Rick Perry, David Dewhurst,

Jim Dunnam Visits Robertson County for Town Hall Meetings - (2009-10-26)
Dunnam meets with citizens in Bremond and Calvert Local State Representative Jim Dunnam held two town hall meetings last Monday in Robertson County. He met with constituents at Bremond City Hall from 8:30 a.m. until noon and the Calvert Fire Department from 1 until 4 p.m. to discuss new laws and local concerns. In Bremond, Dunnam met with City Mayor Rick Swick, County Sheriff Gerald Yezak, employees of the BISD, and many local residents. The major topics included public school funding and accountability requirements, the stimulus package, water drainage problems, road improvement projects, and emergency preparedness equipment. One local eighth grader, Anthony Wilganowski of Bremond Middle School, showed up to talk to Representative Dunnam about the health care debate in Washington D.C. for a class project. "In spite of the rain, folks came by and talked about their concerns," said Jim. "It's really important to understand local issues, so I know how I can do a better job in Austin." In Calvert, Dunnam greeted Mr. Temple's hist
Read More ›› by: - 2009-10-26 comments Category: Town Hall Meetings, Robertson County, Tags: Town Hall Meetings, Robertson County,

Jim Dunnam Receives Interim Charges - (2009-10-23)

Chairman Dunnam's House Committee will form major legislation for 2011

Chairman Jim Dunnam, of the House Select Committee on Federal Economic Stabilization Funding, on Monday announced he looks forward to getting started on the interim charges assigned to the committee by the Speaker of the House, Joe Straus. The committee will make recommendations that will form the basis for major legislation to be considered by the 82nd Legislature when it convenes in January 2011.

The Select Committee has been assigned the following charges:

Monitor the use of funds, adherence to state and federal reporting requirements, and ongoing development of federal rules and regulations provided under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Evaluate the impact of those funds on the state's economy. This charge will be studied jointly with the House Committee on Appropriations.

Review the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs' Weatherization Assistance Program and increased funding from ARRA. Examine the methodology used to distribute funds and the program's effectiveness at reducing residential energy costs. This charge will be studied jointly with the House Committee on Urban Affairs.

by: - 2009-10-23 comments

Category: Select Committee on Federal Economic Stabilization Committee,
Tags: Select Committee. Joe Straus, ,

Jim Dunnam Visits Leon County for Town Hall Meetings - (2009-10-22)
Dunnam discusses legislative matters and local issues in Buffalo and Centerville Local State Representative Jim Dunnam held two town hall meetings last Thursday in Leon County. He met with constituents at the Buffalo City Housing Authority from 8:30 until 11 am and the Centerville County Courthouse Annex from 1 until 4 pm to discuss local problems and new laws. "I spent the day talking with elected officials and local residents about everything from CHIP to home insurance reform to the public school system to new roads," said Dunnam. "I always like to receive feedback and new ideas from my constituents. Town hall meets are a great way to reach out and get to know the community."
Read More ›› by: - 2009-10-22 comments Category: Town Hall Meetings, Leon County, Tags: Town Hall Meetings, Leon County,

Jim Dunnam Encourages District 57 to Vote Early - (2009-10-19)
Early voting takes place this month for the Nov. 3 Texas State Constitutional Election This week, local State Representative Jim Dunnam reminded voters that the polls have opened for the Texas Constitutional Amendment Election. From October 19th - 30th, voters are encouraged to avoid Election Day lines by voting early at convenient locations across their county. Texans voters are asked to approve or reject the 11 proposed State Constitutional Amendments submitted by the 81st Texas Legislature. They address issues varying from state funding for veterans' hospitals to the creation of additional tier-one public universities to public use of open beaches. "This is an important election," said Rep. Dunnam. "Voters are being asked to make permanent changes to the Texas Constitution. It is our right and duty to participate."
Read More ›› by: - 2009-10-19 comments Category: Constitutional Election, Tags: Constitutional Amendments,

Jim Dunnam Brings Key State Leaders to Central Texas - (2009-10-11)
Local State Representative will showcase Waco-area as over 50 state officials attend legislative retreat Waco-area State Representative and Texas House Democratic Leader Jim Dunnam will host over 50 Members of the Texas House to a legislative retreat in Waco this weekend. "I am proud that the House Democratic Caucus will hold its inaugural legislative retreat in the Heart of Texas this weekend," said Rep. Dunnam. "This is a great opportunity to showcase everything our community has to offer to some of the most important leaders in our state." Texas House Members in town for the weekend will hear from panels of issue experts, and continue their work to develop real solutions for working families across the state. In addition to policy discussions, the state leaders will visit numerous sites in Central Texas, including the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Co “F” Ranger Headquarters, t
Read More ›› by: - 2009-10-11 comments Category: House Democratic Caucus, McLennan County, Tags: House Democratic Caucus, McLennan County,

Jim Dunnam Discusses Changes to the Texas Tomorrow Fund - (2009-09-14)
Op-Ed: Texas should honor its commitment to our families Comptroller Susan Combs dropped a bombshell on parents, grandparents and other loved ones in late August when she announced that participants in the Texas Tomorrow Fund will now receive a much lower-than-expected return on cancelled contracts. Promised a payout based on current public university costs, parents will now only receive the amount they paid into the fund for contracts canceled because the child dies or obtains a scholarship. To add insult to injury, an administrative fee will be subtracted from the total, putting Texas families at risk of getting back even less than they put in. The Texas Tomorrow Fund was created to provide Texas parents a safe and stable way to plan for their children’s education. It assured families that despite rising costs fueled mostly by tuition deregulation, they could still afford college. It encouraged us to invest in our children’s futures. It was, literally, a contract they made with the State of Texas. One of the strongest selling points of the Texas Tomorrow Fund was that the money invested would be returned with interest should the children receive a financial scholarship or not pursue a college degree. It relieved parents of the financial risk of college accounts and motivated stud
Read More ›› by: - 2009-09-14 comments Category: Public Education, Higher Education, Tags: Public Education, Higher Education,