Kolkhorst Appointed to New Committee (AUSTIN, TX) With Texas and the federal government not seeing eye to eye on several issues, Speaker Joe Straus (R-San Antonio) announced formation of the House Select Committee on Federal Legislation. Rep. Lois W. Kolkhorst (R-Brenham) was appointed to the 15 member committee. The committee will closely monitor significant pending federal legislation with specific emphasis on health care reform efforts. "Just a slight change to federal Medicaid rules can mean billions of dollars in costs to a state the size of Texas," Kolkhorst said. "People in my area are concerned with federal health care proposals taking over local and state policies. "So I'm glad that this committee will exist to protect Texas taxpayers, and to relay our views to Washington about the costs they may be strapping on to our backs." The committee will also work to improve the exchange of information between Texas and Washington, D.C., by communicating the impact of pending federal legislation to the state economy and citizens. "Like many Texans, I have serious concerns regarding the impact of federal legislation on the state," said Straus. "The committee will help the House respond in a fiscally appropriate manner regarding Texas' specific needs and challenges." Straus has appointed Rep. John Zerwas (R-Richmond) to chair the committee and Rep. Garnet Coleman (D-Houston) to serve as vice chair. Other committee members include Reps. Dan Branch (R-Dallas), Warren Chisum (R-Pampa), Ellen Cohen (D-Houston), Donna Howard (D-Austin), Susan King (R-Abilene), Trey Martinez Fischer (D-San Antonio), Tommy Merritt (R-Longview), Geanie Morrison (R-Victoria), Elliott Naishtat (D-Austin), Solomon Ortiz, Jr. (D-Corpus Christi), Tara Rios Ybarra (D-South Padre Island) and Mark Shelton (R-Fort Worth). Close | Home | Press Room |