“Senate Bill 1 is a responsible and conservative budget that will ensure that the Texas economy continues to thrive and grow.”

AUSTIN – Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following the passage of Senate Bill 1- the Senate Budget, authored by Sen. Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound:

“The Texas economy is the tenth largest in the world — larger than Russia. Responsibly managing the budget for this state is a monumental task and Sen. Nelson and the Senate Finance Committee deserve the thanks of every Texan. They have been working on this, literally, night and day for months and the budget they presented to us today, which was passed unanimously by the Texas Senate, is a responsible and conservative budget that will ensure that the Texas economy continues to thrive and grow.

“Like every budget passed by the Senate since I have been lieutenant governor, Senate Bill 1 is within the spending limit set by the Texas Constitution. It also includes $2.7 billion to address the top priority of Texans — reducing local property taxes. Senate Bill 1 maintains our commitment to law enforcement and border security. For the third budget in a row, we have appropriated $800 million to enhance border security, which is particularly critical during the current border crisis.

“Senate Bill 1 covers costs resulting from Hurricane Harvey and other critical infrastructure rebuilding and maintenance. It also includes funding for a long overdue across-the-board pay raise for our teachers which will ensure more state funding goes directly to the classroom. Senate Bill 1 restrains the growth of state government and will move Texas forward.”