Representative Darby Calls Legislative Session Most Successful in Recent Memory

AUSTIN, TX -- Representative Drew Darby (San Angelo) joined members of the Texas House in successfully passing The Texas Plan, The Texas Property Tax Reform & Transparency Act, and legislation stabilizing the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS), which now head to Governor Greg Abbott.

"The 86th Legislative Session has been one of the most successful in recent memory in providing significant reforms that will greatly benefit the constituents of House District 72," said Representative Darby. "I was proud to cast my vote to ensure that our public schools are well-funded, to guarantee taxpayers are empowered to make more informed decisions about their property taxes, and to maintain our Teacher Retirement System so that it is actuarially sound for years to come."

House Bill 3, The Texas Plan, Highlights:

• Increases the basic allotment per student;
• Provides over $5 billion in statewide property tax relief;
• Increases the state's share of education funding from 38% to 45%;
• Includes over $2 billion in dynamic pay raises for school teachers, librarians, counselors, and nurses.

To learn more, visit www.thetexasplan.com.

Senate Bill 2, The Texas Property Tax Reform & Transparency Act, Highlights:

• Makes the property tax system more transparent and accountable to taxpayers so they know who proposed a rate increase, by how much, and when and where to protest;
• Requires a November election when taxes are raised above the voter approval rate;
• Expands opportunities to protest or appeal appraisal values.

House Bill 1, Senate Bill 12 & Senate Bill 500, Teacher Retirement System, Highlights:

• Directs $589 million to TRS to provide retired teachers with a $2,000 13th check on average;
• Increases the state contribution to TRS, by $524 million to make TRS stable and solvent;
• Funds $230.8 million to cover shortfalls and ensure retired teachers' healthcare premiums do not increase.

Additional highlights from the 86th Legislative Session include:

• Directs $200 million for school safety improvements, including building renovations, added security personnel, and technology and emergency response training;
• Maintains the 2018-2019 levels of funding for Border Security efforts;
• Adds $210 million for the driver's license program to reduce wait times and improve customer service;
• Allocates $27.8 million for human and child sex trafficking investigative squads and anti-gang forces, at the Department of Public Safety.