The press release from the Speaker’s office below:

Speaker Joe Straus (R-San Antonio) today addressed Texas House members as the Legislature enters the final two weeks of the 82nd session:

“Members, we have just two weeks remaining in what has already been an extraordinarily difficult legislative session. I want to thank each of you for your hard work, your tenacity, and your patience especially last week as we reached the critical deadline for passing House bills.  We’ve already done a great deal of work, yet in many ways the most important work is still ahead as conference committees meet, and the House and Senate try to reach consensus on a budget, Sunset legislation, and many other important measures that we have passed already this session.”

“As the session winds down and we face more deadlines under our rules, every day of the legislative calendar is precious.  I hope each of you will take the opportunity over the next two weeks to collaborate whenever possible, and when it is not possible to communicate openly and civilly when you disagree.  In the limited days remaining, I encourage you to bring your amendments, points of order, or questions forward early, and to be respectful of each other, of our Parliamentarian, and of the rules of decorum and civility embodied in our House rules.”

“No matter how difficult the issue, or how passionate the views, I want us to continue to find ways to work together – as we have done in meetings between members of both parties in my office and here on the House floor.  As we move to the end of the session, remember that my door is open to each of you to help resolve issues and get our work done for the people of Texas.”