In a November 14 speech at the Texas Taxpayer and Research Association's annual meeting, Lt. Governor David Dewhurst issued interim charges for the Economic Development and State Affairs Committees.
 
Economic Development Committee:

  • Study regulatory barriers that could impede further capital investment, growth, and expansion of Texas businesses.
  • Make recommendations to reduce barriers to entry for professions regulated by Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, including actions ranging from deregulation to expanded reciprocity agreements with other states, and especially credit for military service.
  • Examine the financial impact of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act on Texas businesses and making recommendations to mitigate those impacts.

 
State Affairs Committee:

  • Examine the negative economic impact on Texas businesses from legal issues involving patent litigation by "patent assertion entities" (PAEs), or "patent trolls."
  • Make recommendations on how the State of Texas can address problems related to frivolous tort action and unsubstantiated patent claims against legitimate businesses and Texas job creators.

To view Lt. Governor Dewhurst's press release, please visit: http://www.ltgov.state.tx.us/prview.php?id=493 .

Dewhurst previously released interim charges for the Veterans' Affairs and Military Installations Committee which can be viewed here: http://www.ltgov.state.tx.us/prview.php?id=491 .

Dewhurst will continue to release his interim charges in the coming months.