AUSTIN — Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst today announced the appointments of Sen. Steve Ogden (R-Bryan) and Sen. Kirk Watson (D-Austin) to the Business Tax Advisory Committee, effective immediately.

"Chairman Ogden's budget expertise and vast knowledge of the state's tax system will make him a strong leader and invaluable resource for this important committee," said Lt. Governor Dewhurst, "and in addition, as a former mayor, Senator Watson understands how our state's tax system impacts businesses and citizens and will bring that critical perspective to this committee."

The Business Tax Advisory Committee was created in House Bill 3928 passed by the 80th Legislature. The committee will conduct a biennial study of the effects of the franchise tax on businesses in Texas. The committee is composed of the comptroller, who is the presiding officer, two members of the senate appointed by the lieutenant governor, two members of the house appointed by the speaker, and at least seven other members appointed by the comptroller. The committee is required to issue a report to the governor, the lieutenant governor, and the speaker of the house by the beginning of each regular session of the legislature. The committee expires January 31, 2013.

Sen. Ogden is Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee and also serves on the Senate Education Committee and Senate Veterans Affairs and Military Installations Committee. Sen. Watson is Vice Chairman of the Senate Transportation and Homeland Security Committee and also serves on the Senate Business and Commerce Committee, Senate Jurisprudence Committee, Senate Nominations Committee and Senate Subcommittee on Emerging Technologies and Economic Development.