To the Constituents of House District 64,

The 82nd Texas Legislature accomplished a lot in 2011.  Led by conservative Republicans like myself, lawmakers passed historic legislation like Voter ID, "loser pays" tort reform, a State Health Care Compact, and legislation to de-fund planned parenthood.  Most importantly, we balanced the state's budget with the first overall decrease in state spending in 50 years.  We also were able to increase state spending on Education by $1.6 Billion even in the face of the worst recession in decades.

After ten years of hard work in the legislature, I can honestly say that the 82nd Session was by far the most difficult Session I have experienced.  Balancing a state budget during a recession forces everyone to make tough choices.  You and your family have likely had to make similar tough choices in your own budget over these last two years and so it is appropriate that governments do the same.  

There is a silver lining during these tough times.  Making cuts is a healthy exercise and allows us to be leaner and better equipped to succeed when opportunities arise.  For example, for years the legislature had been pushed by special interests to enact regulations that were burdensome on our school districts.  This session we were finally able to remove much of that regulation and our school districts now have the freedom to make decisions at a local level in order to meet challenges in the way that best suits each district.  

Gas well drilling in the Barnett Shale is an issue for all of us in Denton County.  As Vice-Chair of the Energy Resources Committee I have worked hard to protect the interests of all of our citizens.  Last Session, I fought to increase the number of inspectors in the Barnett Shale.  This Session, I joint-authored legislation to require gas companies to disclose the chemicals they are using to extract the gas.  

Every session I strive to make sure that the needs of Denton County are addressed.  I'm honored to represent the fine individuals of Denton County, and remain enthusiastically committed to my individual and collective responsibilities as an elected official. Each new session is an opportunity for positive legislative leadership and quality lawmaking. I appreciate the opportunity to be the voice of our community and to work for the betterment of our cities and the great State of Texas.

Sincerely,

Representative Myra Crownover
District 64