(1) improving the ability of federal, state, and local governmental entities to address the needs of Texas youth through expanded coordination between all programs and systems that serve youth and their families, including child protective services, mental health services, educational institutions, and the juvenile justice system;  

(2) creating a safer environment for Texas youth in schools and local communities;  

(3) the use by Texas youth of social media and online platforms, including their design and operations, and the corresponding impact on the privacy, health, and safety of Texas youth;  

(4) the allocation and use of state resources for preventative and rehabilitative services that address the primary challenges facing Texas youth placed in the juvenile justice system;  

(5) the expansion of prevention efforts and the strengthening of service systems to permit the behavioral health challenges faced by Texas youth to be addressed closer to their homes, including efforts and systems that permit youth to remain in their classrooms and stay out of institutionalized healthcare and juvenile justice systems; and  

(6) programs, services, and governmental action focused on the rehabilitation of youthful offenders, including considerations related to developmental factors that impact a youth’s entry into the justice system.” 

The Appropriations Committee, which oversees the state budget. State Rep. Greg Bonnen (R-Friendswood) will continue to chair this powerful committee.

The Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee, which oversees the Teacher Retirement System of Texas in addition to other state and local pension policy. Rep. Capriglione will chair this committee.  

The Committee on Higher Education, which has the authority to oversee educator preparation in addition to other matters relating to the state’s institutions of higher education, will be chaired by state Rep. John Kuempel (R-Seguin).

The Elections Committee, which oversees elections administration and access, including bills which expand of limit educators’ rights regarding political speech. State Rep. Reggie Smith (R-Sherman) will chair this committee.

The Committee on State Affairs, which oversees legislation on a wide range of subjects including educator advocacy, will be chaired by state Rep. Todd Hunter (R-Corpus Christi).