State Rep Al Edwards

Get help on your electricity bill during the summer for qualified individuals

2010-06-30T08:07:00.000-07:00

REDUCE YOUR ELECTRIC BILL
DURING THE SIZZLING SUMMER MONTHS!

As the summer heat sizzles here in Houston and throughout Texas, residents will once again see spikes in their electric bills. It is extremely important that consumers who qualify for the LITE-UP Texas electric discount program to immediately seek enrollment and begin to get your 17% discount on your electric bill during the summer months.

The LITE-UP Texas program is designed to help qualified low-income individuals reduce the monthly cost of electric service by up to 17%. The program provides discounts to eligible customers during the months of May to September of each year. A customer qualifies for the discount if they are currently receiving Medicaid and Food Stamps. If you are not in one of the qualified programs listed above, you can still qualify for the discount if your household income is at or below 125 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. You can sign up for the program through the Public Utilities Commission website at: https://www.liteuptexas.org/NewForm/ or by calling 1-888-782-8477.

Have a Happy "Juneteenth" June 19, 2010

2010-06-15T14:15:00.000-07:00

The preservation of history is of paramount importance. As facilitators of history it is incumbent upon us to ensure that the correct history is told. Too often historical details remain untold which tends to distort the perspective, vision, or view of that particular moment in history. As you cannot leave slavery out of the Civil War, the Japanese out of the detainment camps, the Indians out of the Battle of Little Bighorn, and the Jews out of the Holocaust, we must not leave out the details surrounding the only holiday that commemorates the freedom of slaves in this country.

We ask that as you present information concerning Juneteenth please do not leave out two (2) very important facts:

Texas was the 1st state to declare Juneteenth a state holiday.
The legislation to make Juneteenth a holiday was written and sponsored by State Representative Al Edwards of District 146.

Abraham Lincoln freed the slaves on January 1, 1863. Two years later on June 19, 1865, General Gordon Granger at Ashton Villa in Galveston, TX informed slaves that they were freed by the order of the Emancipation Proclamation. The former slaves marked that day as a day of celebration and coined the phrase “Juneteenth.” Although African-Americans continued to unofficially celebrate this event, it was not until 1979 that State Representative Al Edwards pushed through legislation to make it a state holiday. Too often these details are left out which then leaves the impression that Abraham Lincoln and Gen. Granger created Juneteenth, when in fact, the former slaves created the celebration and State Representative Al Edwards with HB 1016 established it as an official state holiday.

Please help us to preserve Texas history by passing this information on. We thank you in advance for your attention and support of these details. If you have any questions or concerns, or would like to meet with State Rep. Al Edwards please call 713- 741-8800.

Sincerely,
Al Edwards

Juneteenth USA
P.O. Box 321473
Houston, TX 77021

Al Edwards' 31st Annual Juneteenth Gospel Gala & Emancipator's Award: Father's Day Celebration

2010-06-07T10:47:00.000-07:00

Call to request your tickets now! 713.741.8800

HAPPY JUNETEENTH 2010

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

June 19, 2010 marks the annual celebration of Juneteenth! This Juneteenth is the 31st anniversary of Emancipation Day or Juneteenth becoming a state holiday in Texas as a result of legislation authored by Rep. Al Edwards. This year also signals the 145 years since General Gordon Granger read General Order No. 3 in Galveston, TX in 1865 guaranteeing the emancipation of the slaves. Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. At a time when some people seek to re-write our history for harmful political purposes, it is more important than ever to celebrate and remember the history of our nation.

I'm urging everyone to participate in the many area Juneteenth events across the city and nation.
Here are just a few of the events:

Join the many celebrations in the Houston-area and beyond, including in Galveston, where on Saturday, June 19th at 8:30 a.m. there will be a recitation of General Order No. 3 and H.B. 1016 authored by Rep. Edwards which created the holiday, a prayer vigil, thanksgiving service, and free breakfast at the historic Ashton Villa located at 2328 Broadway in Galveston, TX.

Also in Temple, TX on Saturday, June 19th at 10 a.m. there will be a Juneteenth Parade and Festival at Ferguson Park & 24th Street. For more information contact Mr. Willie Floyd at 254.773.1448.

In addition, various Juneteenth events will take place in San Antonio under the guidance of Byron Miller. More information is available at http://www.juneteenthsanantonio.com/events.html.

And make sure to join us for the highly anticipated grand finale, the Al Edwards' Emancipator Awards and Gospel Gala honoring the late gospel artist Shirley Joiner and all Father's, their families and friends, who can receive invitations free of charge. The event will be on June 20th, Father's Day at 5pm in Jones Hall in Downtown Houston. Featuring Dr. Bobby Jones of BET with a special presentation by Yolanda Adams, and many more. This event is invitation only, dress is semi-formal, no children under 10 years old. For more information, call 713.741.8800.

For additional ticket invitations you must make your requests early, please contact 713.741.8800.

Nominees for 2010 Al Edwards' Emancipator Awards include Maxie Sanford, Rev. Rugley Monroe Jr., and Honorable Betty Brock Bell.

Some of the noted performers include Sister Risé Joiner-Peters, Kathy Taylor, Sister Theola Booker & the Southeast Mass Choir, V. Michael McKay, Esprit Hunter, Endurance, GMWA-Houston Chapter, and many more.

Happy Juneteenth!

REP. AL EDWARDS NAMED CHAIR OF SUBCOMMITTEE TO STUDY BORDER SECURITY EFFECTIVENESS & FUNDING

2010-04-23T13:47:00.001-07:00

CONTINUES IMPORTANT LEGISLATIVE WORK

State Representative Al Edwards has been named Chairman of the Subcommittee on Border and Homeland Security Funds. The committee is responsible with evaluating the amount and effectiveness of Texas border funding. In the 2010-11 Budget, the Legislature has allocated over $120 million to enhance border security and stop the violence, crime and gang activity from coming into Texas. As you may be aware, Texas has seen an intolerable increase in violent crime along our border as drug violence has escalated. As a member of the House Appropriations and the Defense & Veterans' Affairs Committees, Rep. Edwards commands an extremely important position in making sure that our borders are protected in the most effective manner possible to keep the people of Texas safe. Being entrusted with such an prestigious role continues to show just how highly regarded and effective the leadership values Rep. Edwards. The first committee hearing will convene on May 11, 2010 in Room E1.030 of the State Capitol Building in Austin.

New Appliance Rebate Program

2010-04-05T08:45:00.000-07:00

Representative Al Edwards Announces Appliance Rebate Program
Encourages locals to trade in their old appliances for new energy-efficient models

(April 5, 2010) – Today State Representative Al Edwards took time to inform locals about the upcoming Texas Trade Up Appliance Rebate Program. From April 16-25, Texas residents who participate in the program and replace an old appliance with a new, energy-efficient model will receive a rebate based on the type and model of the appliance. Interested citizens are encouraged to reserve their spot by signing up on April 7th at www.TexasPowerfulSmart.org or via phone at (877) 780-3039.

"If you need to replace an old refrigerator or dishwasher or even a major appliance like a central air conditioner, now is a great time," said Representative Edwards. "If you participate in the Trade Up Program, you can get an energy-efficient model and a large rebate. It's win-win."
The Texas Trade Up Appliance Rebate Program is paid for by the federal stimulus fund and aims to stimulate the economy and increase energy conservation in Texas. Texas Trade Up rebates will be offered for eight eligible appliance categories: central air conditioners, clothes washers, dishwashers, freezers, air-source heat pumps, hot water heaters, refrigerators, and room air conditioners.

"It is the first program of its kind in our state," said XX. "It's going to be popular, so you need to call in on April 7th to reserve your spot."

More information about the program can be found at http://www.texaspowerfulsmart.org/ or by calling Representative Edwards's office at 512.463.0518.

Al Edwards' District 146- Annual Barbeque & Get Out To Vote Rally

2010-02-26T23:25:00.000-08:00

You're invited to attend

State Representative Al Edwards' & District 146

Fight Against, Violence, AIDS, & Get Out to Vote Rally

February 27, 2010

From: 11:30 A.M. to 1:30 P.M.

Location: Best Motor Company, 3356 Old Spanish Trail (off 288)

Come join us! While you are enjoying the festivities pick up campaign material, yard signs, and find your voting location. Come and meet some of our dignitaries. Please make plans to be there.

Primary Election Day is Tuesday, March 2, 2010

Vote to Re-Elect Al Edwards as State Representative for District 146

Rep. Edwards Honored by Texas Police Chief's Association for Legislative Leadership

2010-02-12T20:18:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, February 9th, Rep. Al Edwards received a coveted award in Houston from the Texas Police Chief's Association.

The award for "Outstanding Contributions to Law Enforcement during the 81st Legislative Session" was based on Edwards legislative commitment and achievement in passing legislation, HB 2153, during the recent session. His bill, HB 2153, now protects the community against sex offenders who try to game the system and claim they are homeless (so police can't keep track of their location) by requiring them to physically check-in every 30 days to law enforcement and tell their whereabouts.

The award was presented at the well-attended Baptist Ministers Association of Houston weekly meeting at Mt. Hebron Baptist Church. Members of the Houston Police Department and the Texas Police Chief's Association members of surrounding areas were on hand to present the award. Rep. Edwards expressed his appreciation for the honor of being chosen as a recipient of the award and stressed that he would continue to work with law enforcement on sensible efforts to reduce crime and on getting more officers on the street to protect the community.

Come Join State Rep. Al Edwards for the District 146 Community Conference Workshop on Saturday, February 6, 2010 at 10 AM

2010-01-29T15:54:00.001-08:00

State Representative Al Edwards
Of District 146
Ranked 3rd in Seniority, in the Texas House of Representatives
A member of the House Appropriations Committee

Announces a

DISTRICT 146 COMMUNITY CONFERENCE WORKSHOP-

To Discuss Project Completion, New District Plans, Other Issues, Concerns and Possible Solutions

District 146 must establish an aggressive agenda for making decisions and taking quick action on the many pressing issues and concerns. We must act with needed urgency to resolve our problems.

Let’s have a serious inclusive discussion about the greatest district in Texas. Essentially this is a real opportunity to express yourself!

It’s your time to speak out!

Bring your issues, concerns and possible solutions to:

St. Paul Baptist Missionary Baptist Church
Rev. James Nash
8309 Brandon Street, Houston, TX 77051
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2010, at 10:00 A.M.

For more information please call 713.741.8800

MacGREGOR PUBLICITY, EVENT PLANNERS, PUBLIC RELATIONS, CLIPPINGS BUREAU
“Creating & Promoting Positive Public Images”
3821 N. MacGregor Way, Houston, TX 77004, 713.527.9488, fax 714.942.7374

Don't Forget to Register To Vote! Deadline is Monday, February 1, 2010

2010-01-28T12:38:00.000-08:00

The upcoming March 2, 2010 Primary Elections are almost upon us. Don't forget about these important upcoming dates:

February 1, 2010- Is the Last day to register to vote for the 2010 Primary
February 16, 2010- Is the first day of Early Voting for the 2010 Primary
February 23, 2010- Is the Last day to apply for a ballot by mail in 2010 Primary
February 26, 2010- Is the last day of Early Voting for the 2010 Primary

March 2, 2010- Is the Primary Election Day!

For more information, check out the following websites:
Harris County Voting Information
More Voting Info from the Texas Secretary of State's Office

Rep Edwards Earns Legislative Champion Award from TACHC

2010-01-15T13:44:00.000-08:00

Rep. Al Edwards Earns Statewide "Legislative Champion Award" for his Doctor Shortage Legislation

Texas Association of Community Health Centers honors
the Houston lawmaker with its Legislative Champion Award

Houston, TX – Houston’s Central Care Community Health Center has honored State Rep. Al Edwards (D-Houston) for the historic Physician Loan Repayment Program measure he authored in the Texas Legislature during the past Session.

Rep. Edwards was presented the Legislative Champion Award by the Texas Association of Community Health Centers (TACHC) for his work during the 81st Texas Legislature.

The program he passed is designed to bring physicians to medically underserved areas of the state and also to provide a cut in the franchise tax for at least 40,000 small businesses in Texas. The measure emerged as one of the centerpiece bills of the 2009 legislative session.

“Physicians and health centers consider this new program to be the most significant legislation to pass in decades because of its potential to bring basic medical care to millions of Texans in the inner cities and rural areas of our state,” said TACHC Executive Director José E. Camacho. “Texans for years should know it was the dedication and tireless work of state Rep. Al Edwards that made Texas a healthier, more prosperous state.”

The legislation Rep. Al Edwards authored creates an enhanced physician loan repayment program. It will be available to primary care physicians who agree to practice in underserved areas of the state and will assist in paying off student loans amassed during medical school training. Medical school graduates carry a debt as high as $160,000 in student loans.

“The legislation was carefully crafted by Rep. Edwards to solve a very real problem in Houston. This is an incredibly important measure, and our health center is deeply indebted to Rep. Edwards for his leadership,” said Anganette Young, Executive Director of Central Care Community Health Center. “The impact of this program will truly be seen and felt in Houston.” In fact, portions of District 146, South of 610 in Sunnyside & South Park have the highest rate of doctor shortages in all of Harris County.

The Physician Loan Repayment Program is expected to bring up to 900 new doctors to urban and rural areas.

The proposal made it through an extremely challenging legislative session. In its final version, House Bill 2154 ultimately won overwhelming support in the Texas House and Senate. In June, Governor Rick Perry formally signed the physician loan repayment bill into law. The legislation became effective Sept. 1, 2009.

More than half of Texas counties are in need of primary care physicians. In 2008, 26 Texas counties had no primary care physician. More than 110 Texas counties – rural and urban – have been designated as Health Professional Shortage Areas, meaning those counties do not meet a minimum national threshold of one physician for every 3,500 people.

About the TACHC
The Texas Association of Community Health Centers is a private, non-profit membership association that represents safety-net health care providers in Texas. Association members include Community and Migrant Health Centers, Health Care for the Homeless Grantees, Public Housing Primary Care Grantees, Ryan White HIV/AIDS Grantees, Health Center Networks and other providers who strive to meet the health care needs of the uninsured and underserved. TACHC serves as the primary care association for the state of Texas.

Rep Al Edwards' Successful Legislation from the 81st Session

2010-01-13T10:33:00.000-08:00

State Representative Al Edwards

Legislative Accomplishments
A recap of his successes from the 81st Legislative Session

31 Successful pieces of Legislation, Out of 99 Pieces with which he was involved

Authored Legislation by Rep. Edwards which became law in 81st Legislative Session:

HB 2154- Bringing Doctors to Needy Communities- This historic piece of legislation provides significant loan repayment assistance to Primary Care Physicians who agree to practice in underserved and needy areas. In fact areas of District 146, including Sunnyside & South Park and the Central Care Community Health Center, are designated as underserved areas, which is why I fought so strongly for this legislation. This bill will help underserved areas and Community Health Centers to attract doctors to serve in the area, thereby leading to better health care access for the most needy residents of our area. Also, this historic bill provided the funding for small business tax cuts for those with revenues up to $1 million.

HB 2153- Homeless Sex Offender Registration- Another key piece of legislation, I passed HB 2153 to help protect our children from the horrors of sex offenders. This bill closes a loophole in the sex offender registration laws which previously did not allow for the tracking of sex offenders who claimed to be "homeless". Our police had no way to know where these sex offenders were. With the passage of this bill, a sex offender who claims to be "homeless" would be required to physically check-in to law enforcement authorities where they are located at least once every 30 days and give a description of the location or area in which they are staying. This new piece of legislation will significantly help law enforcement to protect citizens from sex offenders.

HB 3206- Pollution Control Tax Credits- This successful bill establishes a framework for industrial companies to apply for and receive pollution control equipment tax credits on a fair and equitable basis. The bill sets up a TCEQ regulator-driven formal application process to ensure that evaluation methods for the tax credit applications is based on the actual pollution control usage of the equipment in question. This will stop industrial companies for receiving tax breaks on equipment that is used to make profits and not control pollution, which has been costing our school districts, counties, and even homeowners by not requiring these companies to pay their fair share.

HB 4777- Which creates a new management district in District 146 that will beautify the community and bring about job development South of the 610/Astrodome area which will brings thousands of jobs and homes to District 146.

Sponsored Legislation by Rep. Edwards which became law in 81st Session:

SB 1377- Crime Victim Fund Solvency- I sponsored this successful piece of legislation which is designed to ensure that the Crime Victims Compensation Fund remains a solvent source of funds to provide victims of crime financial assistance to help get their lives back in order. This bill provides a mechanism so that 50% of year-end balance funds greater than $5 million which accumulate in the Crime Victims Compensation Auxiliary Fund are automatically directed to the main Crime Victims Compensation Fund. This great bill will ensure that payments to victims for costs incurred as a result of a crime committed such as medical bills or counseling are available to be made. In recent years the Crime Victims Compensation Fund had been in danger of insolvency, with this bill's passage in the future this will no longer be the case.

SB 1206- Helping Good Prisoners Get Out (Bill vetoed by Gov. Perry)
I also sponsored this necessary piece of legislation to reduce the delays for the processing of parole for incarcerated persons. This bill only affects inmates who had been granted parole contingent upon completion of a rehabilitation program. Offenders were completing all their necessary programs and requirements needed to be released, however they were doing so earlier than their estimated completion date. The delays in releasing these offenders for parole limited bed capacity and causing a back log in the system producing further unnecessary expenses. The bill, as passed, allows a range of dates to release these offenders only once they've completed their approved rehabilitation program, in a range of time which is 15 to 45 days prior to the established target completion date. This streamlining process will help save the state $13.5 million over the next two years.

Rep. Edwards' Joint-Authored Legislation which became law in the 81st Session:

HB 67/ SB 487- Creating a health insurance buy-in for parents with children with mental development disabilities.

HB 200- Streamlining continuing education requirements for public school principals.

HB 610- Establishing the Legislative Committee on Aging, which will study issues affecting the elderly population in Texas and make recommendations to the Legislature on how to provide a better quality of life for our seniors.

HB 968- Regulating the use of crossbows for hunting.

HB 1637- Which clarified the normal weekly hours of work under the shared work unemployment compensation program to ensure that benefits are available for those in need.

HB 1830- Which created a streamlined and efficient structure for information technology security practices amongst State Agencies.

HB 1831- Revising and establishing new disaster preparedness & emergency management practices.

HB 2242- Abolishes the Texas cultural endowment fund and transfers the balance to the Texas Commission for the Arts.

HB 2729- Relating to payment of certain judgments against the State of Texas.

HB 2806- Relating to the reinstatement of a firefighter or police officer to a previously held position based on seniority on the return of another firefighter or police officer from a military leave of absence.

HB 3226- Relating to the payment of temporary housing costs for certain individuals who are released or are eligible for release on parole or to mandatory supervision.

HB 3857- Relating to foreclosure of liens on real property and certain personal property owned by members or dependents of the military; providing a criminal penalty.

Co-Authored Legislation by Rep. Edwards which became law in the 81st Session:

HB 3- Reforming the public school educational system's accountability, curriculum, and promotion requirements.

HB 38/SB 297- Provides in-state college tuition to veterans whose residence is outside of Texas.

HB 51- Establishes a pathway for additional Tier 1 colleges & universities in Texas, including the University of Houston.

HB 394- Allows small businesses with less than 250 employees to become eligible for funding opportunities from the Texas Enterprise Fund.

HB 795/SB 482- Establishes the Texas Holocaust & Genocide Commission.

HB 873- Provides incentives for film, television, video, and digital interactive media production companies for filming in Texas.

HB 1310- Regulation of tanning facilities.

HB 1452- Enhances the eligibility for participation in job training and employment assistance programs by veterans in Texas.

HB 3097- Creates the Texas Dept of Motor Vehicles to streamline registration issues.

HB 3452- Establishes the Texas Armed Services Scholarship in Texas.

HB 3613- Provides property tax exemptions for disabled veterans.

HJR 39- Historic Civil Rights measure ratifying the Texas Constitution to prohibit use of poll taxes.

SB 455- Regulating the practice of dental assistants.

Don't forget to exercise your right that so many before us fought and died for, Register to vote!

2010-01-11T10:34:00.000-08:00

The upcoming March 2, 2010 Primary Elections are almost upon us. Don't forget about these important upcoming dates:

February 1, 2010- Is the Last day to register to vote for the 2010 Primary
February 16, 2010- Is the first day of Early Voting for the 2010 Primary
February 23, 2010- Is the Last day to apply for a ballot by mail in 2010 Primary
February 26, 2010- Is the last day of Early Voting for the 2010 Primary

March 2, 2010- Is the Primary Election Day!

For more information, check out the following websites:
Harris County Voting Info
Even more information from the Texas Secretary of State's Office

Fighting Crime in the Houston Area

2010-01-06T09:05:00.000-08:00

Recently, Rep. Al Edwards met with Houston Police Department & businesses to push for additional patrols and police presence in District 146 of Houston. In the meeting, Rep. Edwards stressed the importance of enhancing crime prevention and protection in his district, and along with local businesses offered new locations for police substation storefronts for HPD to operate out of. The business owners, Rep. Edwards and HPD discussed steps they could take to combat rising crime. It is extremely important for HPD and our local community to work together to stem the rise in area burglaries and thefts. This meeting and others in the future will hopefully produce tangible results as our community makes strides to make us safer.

Rep. Al Edwards joins with TDHCA to combat Homelessness in Houston area

2010-01-04T07:45:00.000-08:00

STATE REP. AL EDWARDS & TEXAS DEPT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY AFFAIRS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(January 4, 2010)

State housing agency rushing $5.7 million to help combat homelessness in Houston

(AUSTIN) — The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) and State Representative Al Edwards announced on December 17, 2009, a $5.7 million award to the City of Houston to help transition homeless persons into rental housing and access services designed to enhance self-sufficiency, bringing greater stability to the lives these individuals and the communities in which they live.

The award is part of $13.2 million TDHCA awarded through the Homeless Housing and Services Program, a new state-funded initiative created by the 81st Texas Legislative session providing $20 million over two years to the state’s eight largest cities.

“Homelessness is a problem that impacts every community in the state, and it is imperative that we begin to reverse this trend and ensure our fellow Texans can access permanent housing,” said Representative Edwards in making the announcement. “This award is an excellent example of what the legislature envisioned when it approved these funds, and I am confident the city will be a good steward of these important dollars. I encourage TDHCA to continue its commitment to this program.”

“Whether the result of domestic violence, chemical dependency or the loss of a job, far too many residents of this great state have no permanent place to call home,” said TDHCA Executive Director Michael Gerber. “Homelessness robs the spirit and diminishes the quality of our society. The Department worked hard to rapidly move these funds to our local partners, where we expect to have a dramatic and positive impact on the lives of our most vulnerable neighbors.”

The city will allocate its award to three subcontractors to administer: SEARCH, Saint Luke’s Episcopal Health Charities, and The Bread of Life. SEARCH will provide targeted services to clients in permanent housing, while Saint Luke’s will support a “train the trainer” case management system to address the needs of homeless Houstonians. The Bread of Life will use its portion of funding to support an existing drop-in center for shelter services to the homeless.

About The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs
The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs is the state agency responsible for affordable housing, community services, energy assistance, colonia housing programs, and disaster recovery housing programs. It currently administers $2 billion through for-profit, nonprofit, and local government partnerships to deliver local housing and community-based opportunities and assistance to Texans in need.

For more information contact: Gordon Anderson, TDHCA 512.475.4743 or Jill McFarren, TDHCA 512.475.2844

REP. AL EDWARDS FILES FOR RE-ELECTION

2009-12-30T14:30:00.000-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DECEMBER 30, 2009

REP. AL EDWARDS SEEKS RE-ELECTION TO DISTRICT 146 SEAT

Houston, TX-- As expected, Representative Al Edwards formally announced today that he will be seeking re-election in 2010. After a productive legislative session, Al Edwards hopes to continue representing House District 146.

In his bid for re-election, Representative Edwards emphasizes his community involvement and significant accomplishments from the recent legislative session. His accomplishments include successfully authoring 4 bills which became law, as well as sponsoring and joint/co-authoring an additional 27 bills into law; collectively totaling 31 successful pieces of legislation becoming law out of the more than 99 bills with which he was directly involved, and cast over 1,700 votes for-or-against legislation.

Among many of Representative Edwards’ accomplishments is passing legislation to encourage additional primary care physicians in urban and rural areas, voted to establish the Holocaust Commission, and H.B. 2153, which requires homeless sex offenders to physically check in to law enforcement agencies. He also passed H.B. 3206 which ensures that industrial companies pay their fair share of taxes on pollution control equipment and the creation of a management district to encourage job growth in District 146 near the Astrodome.

Edwards played a role in many important issues this session that include authoring legislation which provided the necessary funding for 2010 small business tax cuts; supporting property tax exemptions for disabled veterans; also pay raises for teachers; joining efforts to establish a future pathway for University of Houston as a Tier One University; and successfully obtained additional funding for Houston area colleges and universities.

"When re-elected, I'll continue working diligently to represent the views of my constituents in Austin and work effectively to improve our area and the state as a whole," said State Representative Al Edwards. "I am returning to Austin as an ongoing advocate for the constituents of District 146. Seniority is useful in the Texas House of Representatives, and I am number three out of 150 members in seniority."

Al Edwards focuses on increasing access to affordable health care, enhancing public safety, and helping small businesses with job growth and development. He currently serves on the House Appropriations Committee, the Subcommittee on Criminal Justice, Defense & Veterans' Affairs and Rules & Resolutions Committees, and is a member of the House Democratic Caucus. He has represented District 146 for 15 sessions and is third highest ranking in seniority in the Texas House of Representatives. As a very attentive legislator, Edwards has never used a sick day in his 29 years of the legislature, having a perfect attendance record while doing the people's work.

Representative Edwards who received the Legislative Champion Award from the Texas Association of Community Health Centers for his role in the passage of H.B. 2154 this past session, has recently received the endorsements of Rev. S.J. Gilbert, Sr., President of the Houston Metropolitan Ministers Association, the Baptist Ministers Association of Houston, the Southside Ministers Association of Houston, and such notable community leaders as Rev. William “Bill” Lawson, Dr. D.Z. Cofield, Rev. J.J. Roberson, Rev. James Nash, Rev. T.R. Williams, Rev. Terry Anderson, Rev. Jimmie Dixon, Rev. Lamon Atkins, Rev. Rugley Monroe , Rev. F.N. Williams, Sr., Black American Voters, the CWA Union Local 6222 of Houston and many more.
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Al Edwards "Watchman on the Wall" Capitol Report & Legislative Update on KCOH 1430 AM on December 29th

2009-12-28T15:09:00.000-08:00

State Representative Al Edwards
"Watchman on the Wall"

Dear Friends in the Community,

I would like to invite you all to listen and participate in my weekly radio program on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The next Al Edwards Capitol Report and Legislative Update will air on Tuesday, December 29th from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The program will now run every Tuesday morning at the same time slot, and it will cover the issues that impact you the most; including the hot topics, issues of interest from the State Legislature, and important local community issues just to name a few.

On the program we will touch on the recent Legislative session, including some of the bills that passed and some that did not pass.

So please tune in to KCOH Radio 1430 AM or listen on the internet at:
Listen live to KCOH

Tuesday, December 29th from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. for an enlightening time you won't want to miss! And make sure you pass on the word!

Don't forget, we will have open lines so please feel free to call in to 713.526.1430.

Best Wishes,
Al Edwards

Merry Christmas to All

2009-12-25T19:53:00.000-08:00

I would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and hope that family and friends alike were able to enjoy this special day!

Rep. Al Edwards "Holiday Luncheon & Legislative Update" A Successful Affair

2009-12-23T07:58:00.001-08:00

On December 19, 2009, State Representative Al Edwards hosted his 32nd Annual Holiday Luncheon & Legislative Update for District 146. The well attended and well received event was held at Wyatt's Cafeteria on Griggs Road. The capacity-sized crowd filled Wyatt's leaving not an empty seat in the house. Residents were treated to a free turkey dinner with all the fixings, had many chances to receive free gifts in multiple raffles, and received an informative legislative update on many of the important statewide issues that passed this legislative session. Many key community leaders were in attendance, as well as fellow local officials attended including Congressman Al Green, State Representative Sylvester Turner & Judge Robert Hinojosa to help impart important messages to the attendees. The attendees were exceptionally entertained with virtually none leaving the riveting event early. Residents had a chance to converse one-on-one with State Representative Al Edwards afterwards and were happy to have shared some Holiday season cheer with fellow residents of District 146.

One resident's take on the event can be found at:
Edwards Holiday Luncheon 2009
Courtesy of Craig Anthony Thomas of Webcatz Studioz

Utility Assistance/Weatherization Assistance Program Information

2009-12-21T14:14:00.000-08:00

UTILITY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM INFORMATION

IF YOU LIVE IN HARRIS COUNTY AND MEET THE FEDERAL HOUSEHOLD INCOME GUIDELINES FOR 200% OF POVERTY LEVEL AND BELOW, YOU MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR ASSISTANCE WITH YOUR UTILITY BILLS.

In Harris County, this service is administered by Sheltering Arms Senior Services. This federally funded Utility Assistance Program assists low-income seniors (60+), families with young children, and the disabled, with the payment of gas and electricity bills, when funding is available. Recipients of these funds must qualify by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services’ minimum income standards of 200% of poverty level or below. Sheltering Arms Senior Services also administers weatherization assistance. If you are interested in weatherization services, you will need to follow the utility assistance application process.
For additional information, go to the following Web sites and links.

Sheltering Arms Senior Services programs available:
http://www.shelteringarms.org

General information about Texas utility assistance and weatherization programs available outside Harris County:
http://www.tdhca.state.tx.us

A listing of Texas utility assistance program providers in your area can be found at the above website here:
Energy Program Providers
A listing of Texas weatherization assistance program providers in your area:
Weatherization Assistance Providers

NOTE: Appointments for assistance will begin in late February, 2010. Please check the Sheltering Arms Website for more information on 2010 enrollment opportunities.

To Apply for Utility Assistance
1. The first step in the application process is to call United Way's Helpline at 2-1-1. If your phone service cannot access 2-1-1, call United Way at 713-957-4357.

2. The 2-1-1 staff will let you know what outreach site in the community you need to visit to complete your application. You can also look up your site online, according to your home zip code.

3. Call the application site phone number received from the United Way's 2-1-1, to make an appointment. This application site is for your geographic area.

4. Please be sure to bring these required items to your appointment:
• Recent copies of your gas and electric utility bills and/or disconnect notices (disconnect notices are only needed for the Disconnect Notice Program).
• Copy of applicant's Photo I.D.
• Proof of household income for the last 30 days, such as recent payroll stubs or documentation of Social Security, Social Security disability benefits, Unemployment Insurance, Pension Funds, etc.
• Copy of social security cards, birth certificates, and/or shot records for all household members.

Please be sure to bring copies of these required items. Failure to do so will result in the cancellation of your appointment.

IF YOUR NEED IS AN EMERGENCY due to the heat crisis, current disconnect notice and/or no working air conditioning unit or a doctor's notice stating that living without an air conditioner is life threatening, please call Sheltering Arms at 713-956-7456. This number is only for emergencies.

GREAT PROCUREMENT OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE FOR WEATHERIZATION SERVICE CONTRACTORS

Independent Contractor for Weatherization Work
Independent Contractor for HVAC Work

The formal posting and bid solicitation for contractors will begin mid-January, 2010

Please check the Sheltering Arms web site at http://www.shelteringarms.org for updates.

To receive formal notification of the process, send a letter with your name, company name, address, and request for a Weatherization or HVAC bid package to:
Sheltering Arms
Contractor Bid Notification
3838 Aberdeen Way
Houston, TX 77025

Al Edwards "Watchman on the Wall" Capitol Report & Legislative Update on KCOH 1430 AM on December 22nd

2009-12-21T14:09:00.000-08:00

State Representative Al Edwards
"Watchman on the Wall"

Dear Friends in the Community,

I would like to invite you all to listen and participate in my weekly radio program on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The next Al Edwards Capitol Report and Legislative Update will air on December 22nd from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The program will now run every Tuesday morning at the same time slot, and it will cover the issues that impact you the most; including the hot topics, issues of interest from the State Legislature, and important local community issues just to name a few.

On the program we will touch on the recent Legislative session, including some of the bills that passed and some that did not pass.

So please tune in to KCOH Radio 1430 AM or listen on the internet at:
Listen live to KCOH

Tuesday, December 22nd from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. for an enlightening time you won't want to miss! And make sure you pass on the word!

Don't forget, we will have open lines so please feel free to call in to 713.526.1430.

Best Wishes,
Al Edwards

Al Edwards "Watchman on the Wall" Capitol Report & Legislative Update on KCOH 1430 AM on December 15th

2009-12-15T07:02:00.001-08:00

State Representative Al Edwards
"Watchman on the Wall"

Dear Friends in the Community,

I would like to invite you all to listen and participate in my weekly radio program on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The next Al Edwards Capitol Report and Legislative Update will air on December 15th from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The program will now run every Tuesday morning at the same time slot, and it will cover the issues that impact you the most; including the hot topics, issues of interest from the State Legislature, and important local community issues just to name a few.

On the program we will touch on the recent Legislative session, including some of the bills that passed and some that did not pass.

So please tune in to KCOH Radio 1430 AM or listen on the internet at:
Listen Live to KCOH online

Tuesday, December 15th from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. for an enlightening time you won't want to miss! And make sure you pass on the word!

Don't forget, we will have open lines so please feel free to call in to 713.526.1430.

Best Wishes,
Al Edwards

Al Edwards "Watchman on the Wall" Capitol Report & Legislative Update on KCOH 1430 AM on December 8th

2009-12-07T15:32:00.000-08:00

State Representative Al Edwards
"Watchman on the Wall"

Dear Friends in the Community,

I would like to invite you all to listen and participate in my weekly radio program on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The next Al Edwards Capitol Report and Legislative Update will air on December 8th from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The program will now run every Tuesday morning at the same time slot, and it will cover the issues that impact you the most; including the hot topics, issues of interest from the State Legislature, and important local community issues just to name a few.

On the program we will touch on the recent Legislative session, including some of the bills that passed and some that did not pass.

So please tune in to KCOH Radio 1430 AM or listen on the internet at:
Listen Live to KCOH online

Tuesday, December 8th from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. for an enlightening time you won't want to miss! And make sure you pass on the word!

Don't forget, we will have open lines so please feel free to call in to 713.526.1430.

Best Wishes,
Al Edwards

Al Edwards "Watchman on the Wall" Capitol Report & Legislative Update on KCOH Radio 1430 AM on December 1st

2009-11-30T17:07:00.000-08:00

State Representative Al Edwards
"Watchman on the Wall"

Dear Friends in the Community,

I would like to invite you all to listen and participate in my weekly radio program on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The next Al Edwards Capitol Report and Legislative Update will air on December 1st from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The program will now run every Tuesday morning at the same time slot, and it will cover the issues that impact you the most; including the hot topics, issues of interest from the State Legislature, and important local community issues just to name a few.

On the program we will touch on the recent Legislative session, including some of the bills that passed and some that did not pass.

So please tune in to KCOH Radio 1430 AM or listen on the internet at:
Listen Live to KCOH online

Tuesday, December 1st from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. for an enlightening time you won't want to miss! And make sure you pass on the word!

Don't forget, we will have open lines so please feel free to call in to 713.526.1430.

Best Wishes,

Al Edwards

Al Edwards "Watchman on the Wall" Capitol Report & Legislative Update on 11/24

2009-11-23T19:06:00.000-08:00

State Representative Al Edwards
"Watchman on the Wall"

Dear Friends in the Community,

I would like to invite you all to listen and participate in my weekly radio program on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The next Al Edwards Capitol Report and Legislative Update will air on November 24th from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The program will now run every Tuesday morning at the same time slot, and it will cover the issues that impact you the most; including the hot topics, issues of interest from the State Legislature, and important local community issues just to name a few.

On the program we will touch on the recent Legislative session, including some of the bills that passed and some that did not pass.

So please tune in to KCOH Radio 1430 AM or listen on the internet at:
Listen Live to KCOH online

Tuesday, November 24th from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. for an enlightening time you won't want to miss! And make sure you pass on the word!

Best Wishes,

Al Edwards

Al Edwards "Watchman on the Wall" Capitol Report & Legislative Update on KCOH at 8:30 AM on 11/17

2009-11-16T20:01:00.000-08:00

State Representative Al Edwards
"Watchman on the Wall"

Dear Friends in the Community,

I would like to invite you all to listen and participate in my weekly radio program on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The next Al Edwards Capitol Report and Legislative Update will air on November 17th from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The program will now run every Tuesday morning at the same time slot, and it will cover the issues that impact you the most; including the hot topics, issues of interest from the State Legislature, and important local community issues just to name a few.

On the program we will touch on the recent Legislative session, including some of the bills that passed and some that did not pass.

So please tune in to KCOH Radio 1430 AM or listen on the internet at:
Listen Live to KCOH online

Tuesday, November 17th from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. for an enlightening time you won't want to miss! And make sure you pass on the word!

Best Wishes,

Al Edwards

Al Edwards "Watchman on the Wall" Capitol Report & Legislative Update Radio Show on KCOH 1430 AM

2009-11-10T05:46:00.000-08:00

State Representative Al Edwards
"Watchman on the Wall"

Dear Friends in the Community,

I would like to invite you all to listen and participate in my weekly radio program on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The next Al Edwards Capitol Report and Legislative Update will air on November 10th from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

On this week's show I welcome Rev. S.J. Gilbert, Jr. as my in studio guest.

November 11th is Veterans' Day, so we will discuss some bills passed affecting Veterans' issues.

The program will now run every Tuesday morning at the same time slot, and it will cover the issues that impact you the most; including the hot topics, issues of interest from the State Legislature, and important local community issues just to name a few.

On the program we will touch on the recent Legislative session, including some of the bills that passed and some that did not pass.

So please tune in to KCOH Radio 1430 AM or listen on the internet at:
Listen Live to KCOH online

Tuesday, November 10th from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. for an enlightening time you won't want to miss! And make sure you pass on the word!

Best Wishes,

Al Edwards

Al Edwards "Watchman on the Wall" Capitol Report & Legislative Update on KCOH Radio 1430 AM

2009-11-02T14:26:00.000-08:00

State Representative Al Edwards
"Watchman on the Wall"

Dear Friends in the Community,

I would like to invite you all to listen and participate in my weekly radio program on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The next Al Edwards Capitol Report and Legislative Update will air on November 3rd from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The program will now run every Tuesday morning at the same time slot, and it will cover the issues that impact you the most; including the hot topics, issues of interest from the State Legislature, and important local community issues just to name a few.

On the program we will touch on the recent Legislative session, including some of the bills that passed and some that did not pass.

So please tune in to KCOH Radio 1430 AM or listen on the internet at:
Listen Live to KCOH online

Tuesday, November 3rd from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. for an enlightening time you won't want to miss! And make sure you pass on the word!

Also don't forget to get out and vote on the Constitutional Amendments which are currently on the November 3rd ballot.

Best Wishes,

Al Edwards

Al Edwards "Watchman on the Wall" Capitol Report & Legislative Update on KCOH 1430 AM

2009-10-26T18:11:00.000-07:00

State Representative Al Edwards
"Watchman on the Wall"

Dear Friends in the Community,

I would like to invite you all to listen and participate in my weekly radio program on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The next Al Edwards Capitol Report and Legislative Update will air on October 27th from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

I look forward to having both Reverend Max Miller, Jr. & Reverend S.J. Gilbert, Jr. of Houston as my guests on the show.

The program will now run every Tuesday morning at the same time slot, and it will cover the issues that impact you the most; including the hot topics, issues of interest from the State Legislature, and important local community issues just to name a few.

On the program we will touch on the recent Legislative session, including some of the bills that passed and some that did not pass.

So please tune in to KCOH Radio 1430 AM or listen on the internet at:
Listen Live to KCOH online

Tuesday, October 27th from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. for an enlightening time you won't want to miss! And make sure you pass on the word!

Also don't forget to get out and vote on the Constitutional Amendments which are currently on the November ballot.

Best Wishes,

Al Edwards

St. Rep. Al Edwards Seeks Solutions to Crime Problems in Houston

2009-10-21T14:25:00.000-07:00

St. Rep. Al Edwards Seeks Solutions to Crime Problems in Houston
"Al Edwards Crime Fighter for District 146"
Passes Important Legislation to Help Crime Victims & Monitor Sex Offenders

Today, Houston faces an unfortunate increase in burglaries and thefts. In fact from August 2008 to August 2009, burglaries and thefts have increased by 8.1% city-wide in Houston. In light of such unsettling news, Rep. Al Edwards plans to meet with HPD Chief Harold Hurtt and the Mayor to request more uniformed police patrolling the streets in District 146 to prevent more crimes. In order to provide a long lasting solution to this problem, Rep. Al Edwards plans to propose legislation next session which would require certain specified levels of private security at shopping mall locations based on the amount of the shops in order to promote better safety.

Also reported has been an increase in violent crimes in Houston. Helping victims of violent crime to receive treatment, counseling or other assistance even when they do not have the financial resources to get this help is a critical necessity. In the recently concluded session, the Texas Legislature addressed this very issue. SB 1377 sponsored in the House of Representatives by Rep. Al Edwards was passed to ensure that the Crime Victims Compensation Fund remains a solvent source of funds to provide victims of crime financial assistance to help get their lives back in order. This bill provides a mechanism so that excess funds are annually shifted from the Auxiliary Fund to the main Crime Victims Compensation Fund to ensure long-term solvency. This great bill will ensure that payments to victims for costs incurred as a result of a crime committed such as medical bills or counseling are available to be made. In recent years the Crime Victims Compensation Fund had been in danger of insolvency, with this bill's passage in the future this will no longer be the case.

Equally crucial was the passage of HB 2465 which now will require prosecutors to take a deposition of an elderly or disabled person who is the alleged victim of, or witness to a crime no later than 60 days after charges have been filed. This will enable elderly or disabled persons to commit their accounts on the record before they can become hazy and help to ensure that those who commit these crimes are held accountable for their actions.

During this session particular progress was made in protecting our citizens from the threat of sex offenders. Significant legislation that was successfully passed includes HB 2153 by Representative Edwards which requires sex offenders who claim to be homeless to physically check-in to law enforcement authorities once every 30 days. Also, SB 689 by Senator Shapiro gives law enforcement authorities and social networking websites additional information to track sex offenders online by requiring them to provide e-mail addresses, cell phone numbers, and online usernames to state authorities.

For more information on the assistance for victims of violent crime from the Crime Victims Compensation Fund, please contact the Attorney General's Office at 1-800-983-9933.

Constitutional Amendment Analysis on November Ballot

2009-10-20T14:26:00.000-07:00

Dear Constituents,

I would like to pass along this information regarding the Constitutional Amendments you will be voting on, in the upcoming November Election. I hope this helps you as a voter to be as informed as possible.
Early voting starts October 19th!

Click here for early voting locations in Harris County:
Harris County Early Voting Locations

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT #1
The constitutional amendment authorizing the financing, including through tax increment financing, of acquisition by municipalities and counties of buffer areas or open spaces adjacent to a military installation for the prevention of encroachment or for the construction of roadways, utilities, or other infrastructure to protect or promote the mission of the military installation.

Brief Explanation:
Allows the legislature to authorize by law for a city or county to issue bonds or notes to finance the acquisition of buffer areas or open spaces adjacent to a military base in order to prevent encroachment, or in order to construct roadways, utilities or other infrastructure to further the military base's mission.

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT #2
The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for the ad valorem taxation of a residence homestead solely on the basis of the property's value as a residence homestead.

Brief Explanation:
Allows for the taxation of a residence homestead to be based solely on the value of the property as a residence homestead, regardless of whether residential use by the homeowner is considered to be the highest and best use of the property. This amendment would extend protection to homeowners whose neighborhoods are in transition from residential uses to commercial development. This is a necessary constitutional amendment that could possibly benefit homeowners with their property tax appraisals.

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT #3The constitutional amendment providing for uniform standards and procedures for the appraisal of property for ad valorem tax purposes.

Brief Explanation:
This amendment would give the legislature full discretion to prescribe the manner of the enforcement of uniform appraisal standards and procedures in order to promote consistency and fairness.

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT #4
The constitutional amendment establishing the national research university fund to enable emerging research universities in this state to achieve national prominence as major research universities and transferring the balance of the higher education fund to the national research university fund.

Brief Explanation:
Texas lags behind other major states in the number of nationally recognized research universities, with only two public research universities of national prominence- University of Texas at Austin & Texas A&M University. Texas must continue strengthening these existing universities, and it also must focus resources on establishing additional nationally prominent research universities. The proposed amendment along with HB 51 passed this session, would direct a national research university fund to spur emerging state universities in Texas, most importantly University of Houston to become a Tier 1 university.

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT #5
The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to authorize a single board of equalization for two or more adjoining appraisal entities that elect to provide for consolidated equalizations.

Brief Explanation
The proposed amendment would allow the legislature by law to authorize a single board of equalization for two or more adjoining appraisal entities that elect to provide for consolidated equalizations.

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT #6
The constitutional amendment authorizing the Veterans' Land Board to issue general obligation bonds in amounts equal to or less than amounts previously authorized.

Brief Explanation
The amendment authorizes the Veterans' Land Board to sell bonds for the purpose of selling land or providing home-mortgage or land-purchase loans to Texas veterans above the current cap of $500 million but states that the principal amount of outstanding bonds will never exceed the total principal amount of bonds previously authorized. These bonds would not be included in the calculation of the amount of state debt payable from the General Revenue Fund used to determine the state debt limit.

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT #7
The constitutional amendment to allow an officer or enlisted member of the Texas State Guard or other state militia or military force to hold other civil offices.

Brief Explanation
The amendment would allow a civil official to be an active member in the Texas State Guard, thereby allowing state military personnel to hold another civil office while serving.

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT #8
The constitutional amendment authorizing the state to contribute money, property, and other resources for the establishment, maintenance, and operation of veterans hospitals in this state.

Brief Explanation
The amendment would allow Texas voters the opportunity to ensure that the state could contribute to a federal initiative to build, operate, and maintain veterans' hospitals in this state in order to improve access to medical care for Texas veterans.

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT #9
The constitutional amendment to protect the right of the public, individually and collectively, to access and use the public beaches bordering the seaward shore of the Gulf of Mexico.

Brief Explanation
The amendment would establish in the state constitution that the public has a right to the unrestricted access and use of a public beach in Texas, specifically noting those along the Gulf of Mexico. The right would be dedicated as a permanent public easement, and in effect would bolster the standing of the Texas Open Beaches Act.

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT #10
The constitutional amendment to provide that elected members of the governing boards of emergency services districts may serve terms not to exceed four years.

Brief Explanation
The amendment would extend the current term length for emergency service district members from 2 years to 4 years.

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT #11
The constitutional amendment to prohibit the taking, damaging, or destroying of private property for public use unless the action is for the ownership, use, and enjoyment of the property by the State, a political subdivision of the State, the public at large, or entities granted the power of eminent domain under law or for the elimination of urban blight on a particular parcel of property, but not for certain economic development or enhancement of tax revenue purposes, and to limit the legislature's authority to grant the power of eminent domain to an entity.

Brief Explanation
The amendment would clarify that in the use of eminent domain powers, public use would not include the taking of property for transfer to a private entity for the primary purpose of economic development or enhancement of tax revenues. It would also require that the granting of the power of eminent domain to an entity would require a two-thirds vote by the Legislature.

Al Edwards "Watchman on the Wall" Capitol Report & Legislative Update on KCOH Radio 1430 AM

2009-10-19T11:53:00.001-07:00

State Representative Al Edwards
"Watchman on the Wall"

Dear Friends in the Community,

I would like to invite you all to listen and participate in my weekly radio program on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The next Al Edwards Capitol Report and Legislative Update will air on October 20th from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

I look forward to having Houston Mayoral Candidate Gene Locke as my guest on the show.

In focus now are the Constitutional Amendments and laws recently passed this year.

The program will now run every Tuesday morning at the same time slot, and it will cover the issues that impact you the most; including the hot topics, issues of interest from the State Legislature, and important local community issues just to name a few.

On the program we will touch on the recent Legislative session, including some of the bills that passed and some that did not pass.

So please tune in to KCOH Radio 1430 AM or listen on the internet at:
Listen Live to KCOH online

Tuesday, October 20th from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. for an enlightening time you won't want to miss! And make sure you pass on the word!

Best Wishes,

Al Edwards

Al Edwards Capitol Report & Legislative Update on KCOH 1430 AM

2009-10-12T20:43:00.000-07:00

State Representative Al Edwards
"Watchman on the Wall"

Dear Friends in the Community,

I would like to invite you all to listen and participate in my weekly radio program on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The next Al Edwards Capitol Report and Legislative Update will air on October 13th from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

I look forward to having Houston Mayoral Candidates Annise Parker & Peter Brown as my guests on the show.

I will also touch on some of the constitutional amendments on the November ballot.

The program will now run every Tuesday morning at the same time slot, and it will cover the issues that impact you the most; including the hot topics, issues of interest from the State Legislature, and important local community issues just to name a few.

On the program we will touch on the recent Legislative session, including some of the bills that passed and some that did not pass.

So please tune in to KCOH Radio 1430 AM or listen on the internet at:
Listen to KCOH live on the internet

Tuesday, October 13th from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. for an enlightening time you won't want to miss! And make sure you pass on the word!

Best Wishes,

Al Edwards

Please join the National Night Out by the MacGregor Super Neighborhood Civic Association with State Rep. Al Edwards

2009-10-05T16:00:00.000-07:00

You are cordially invited to join the

MacGregor Super Neighborhood

National Night Out

With

State Representative

AL EDWARDS

Where: Residence of Rep. Al Edwards

Location: 3108 South MacGregor Way

Houston, TX 77021

When: Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Time: 6:00 – 8:00 P.M.

For more information please call

Ms. Tomaro Bell at 713.825.8449 or 713.741.8800

Al Edwards Capitol Report & Legislative Update on KCOH Radio 1430 AM

2009-10-02T14:48:00.000-07:00

State Representative Al Edwards
"Watchman on the Wall"

Dear Friends in the Community,

I would like to invite you all to listen and participate in my weekly radio program on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The next Al Edwards Capitol Report and Legislative Update will air on October 6th from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.
I look forward to having Mayor Bill White as my guest on the show.

The program will now run every Tuesday morning at the same time slot, and it will cover the issues that impact you the most; including the hot topics, issues of interest from the State Legislature, and important local community issues just to name a few.

On the program we will touch on the recent Legislative session, including some of the bills that passed and some that did not pass.

So please tune in to KCOH Radio 1430 AM or listen on the internet at:
Listen to KCOH live on the internet
Tuesday, October 6th from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. for an enlightening time you won't want to miss! And make sure you pass on the word!

Best Wishes,

Al Edwards

Please tune in to the Al Edwards Capitol Report & Legislative Update on Tuesday, Sept. 22nd at 8:30 a.m. on KCOH 1430 AM

2009-09-21T16:14:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends in the Community,

I would like to invite you all to listen and participate in my bi-weekly radio program on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The next Al Edwards Capitol Report and Legislative Update will air on this upcoming September 22nd from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on KCOH Radio 1430 AM . The program will run every other Tuesday morning at the same time slot, and it will cover the issues that impact you the most; including the hot topics, issues of interest from the State Legislature, and important local community issues just to name a few.

On the program we will touch on the recent Legislative session, including some of the bills that passed and some that did not pass.

So please tune in to KCOH Radio 1430 AM or listen on the internet at: http://www.kcohradio.com/listenlive/default.asp
this Tuesday, September 22nd from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. for an enlightening time you won't want to miss! And make sure you pass on the word!

Rep. Al Edwards Delivers for District 146

2009-09-16T10:26:00.000-07:00

Rep. Al Edwards' Highlights from a Productive Legislative Session:

Rep. Al Edwards' Legislation- 37 Bills Authored, 37 Bills Joint-Authored, 56 Bills Co-Authored, 6 Bills Sponsored, & 58 Resolutions

Making Houston Healthier:
• Rep. Al Edwards passed HB 2154 which encourages more primary care physicians to practice in inner-city areas, including Sunnyside/South Park, by helping to repay their student loans
• Rep. Al Edwards joint-authors an initiative that expands eligibility of the Medicaid buy-in insurance coverage for parents of children with disabilities

Making Houston Safer:
• Rep. Al Edwards passed HB 2153 into law which requires homeless sex offenders to physically check-in to police once every 30 days, eliminating a loop hole in the law
• Rep. Al Edwards sponsored legislation, SB 1377, that makes sure that money is available for victims of crime in order to help with living expenses after tragedy strikes
• Rep. Al Edwards supported the working man's interest by the expansion of Workers Comp. protection in HB 1657

Making Houston More Prosperous:
• Part of legislation authored by Rep. Al Edwards provided tax cuts for small businesses making up to $1 million
• Rep. Al Edwards passed HB 3206 to make sure industrial companies pay their fair share of taxes on certain pollution control equipment
• $70.9 million increase in funding for the Lite-Up program, which provides up to a 17% discount on electricity bills for eligible seniors and low-income customers from May to September each year, CALL 1-888-454-8387

Helping Houston Area Colleges & Universities To Get More Funding:
• 10.5% increase in funding for Houston Community College
• 4% increase in funding for Texas Southern University
• 3.7% increase in funding for Prairie View A & M University
• 6.4% increase in funding for University of Houston
• Over $25 million in Hurricane Ike recovery funds for Houston area colleges

Rep Al Edwards on People's Politics Comcast Channel 17 tonight at 8:30 p.m. Please tune in!

2009-09-14T15:47:00.001-07:00

TONIGHT AT 8:30 P.M. LIVE ON COMCAST 17
PLEASE WATCH PEOPLE'S POLITICS WITH REP. AL EDWARDS
PLEASE PASS IT ON!

Please tune in tonight, Sept. 14th at 8:30 p.m. to
People's Politics with Special Guest Rep. Al Edwards
for an hour long informative legislative &
discussion of current affairs

Broadcast Live on Comcast 17, Phonoscope 75, AT&T Uverse 99 & TVMAX 95
Also live on the internet: Watch live on the internet

Rep. Al Edwards honors the Houston chapter of Hadassah

2009-09-08T14:02:00.000-07:00

At the recent monthly board meeting of the Houston chapter of Hadassah, State Rep. Al Edwards presented two resolutions to the organizationa and Linda Pravda Horowitz for their longstanding contributions to helping those in need through their various outreach and community programs. Rep. Al Edwards felt it was extremely important to honor the contributions of those that stand out in District 146 of Houston, TX. The Texas House of Representatives passed HR 2595 by Rep. Edwards in honor of Linda Horowitz and HR 2782 by Rep. Edwards in honor of Hadassah in the recently concluded 81st Legislative Session. I hope groups such as Hadassah and individuals like Linda Pravda Horowitz continue to make our district and the community at large a better place.

Al Edwards Capitol Report & Legislative Update on KCOH Radio 1430 AM

2009-09-04T13:41:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends in the Community,

I would like to invite you all to listen and participate in a new bi-weekly radio program I will be having on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The Al Edwards Capitol Report and Legislative Update will begin airing on this upcoming September 8th from 8:30 am to 9:00 am on KCOH Radio 1430 AM . The program will run every other Tuesday morning at the same time slot, and it will cover the issues that impact you the most; including the hot topics, issues of interest from the State Legislature, and important local community issues just to name a few.

On the first program we will touch on the recent Legislative session, including some of the bills that passed and some that did not pass, as well as, providing a recap on the recently concluded special session.

So please tune in to KCOH Radio 1430 AM or listen on the internet at: Listen live on KCOH 1430 A.M. beginning this Tuesday, September 8th from 8:30 am to 9:00 am for an enlightening time you won't want to miss! And make sure you pass on the word!

Rep Al Edwards Pancake Breakfast & Legislative Update

2009-09-04T13:24:00.000-07:00

You’re invited to
Al Edwards’ Annual Labor Day Pancake Breakfast and Legislative Update
Saturday, September 5, 2009
By: State Representative Al Edwards
Advisory Committee Chair: Imogene Jenkins

7:30-8:00 A.M. Registration/Meet, Greet, & Coffee
8:00-9:00 A.M. Breakfast is served!
9:00-9:30 A.M. Leg. Update & Recognition

Fundraiser for renovation of the OST Majestic Theatre

Voter Registration Drive, Legislative Update, and Community Issues
Bring your ideas and suggestions

*Special Recognition of Precinct Judges, Civic Clubs, Ministers, and Special Guest*

Saturday, September 5, 2009

Wyatt’s Café at 4423 Griggs Road at Cullen
Please RSVP immediately! For more information call 713.741.8800. Casual dress attire. Thank you.
Compliments of the Al Edwards Advisory Committee & Al Edwards Real Estate and Mortgage Company.

Rep. Edwards school supply giveaway a remarkable sucess

2009-09-01T14:48:00.000-07:00

At the recently held school supply giveaway hosted by State Rep. Al Edwards & Pastor Stevenson of the House of Prayer on August 23rd, many many children walked away happy, content and ready for the new school year. The school supply giveaway, the first of its kind for District 146 gave free school supplies to more than 400 school children. Also many families were able to receive lots of free food provided by the Houston Food Bank. This well attended event showed the wonderful spirit to help those in need that is quite apparent throughout District 146. Special thanks to Rep. Al Edwards and Pastor Stevenson of the House of Prayer, Inc. for hosting such a wonderful event!

Al Edwards Capitol Report & Legislative Update on KCOH Radio 1430 AM

2009-08-24T13:20:00.000-07:00

I would like to invite you all to listen and participate in the latest installment of my bi-weekly radio program on KCOH Radio 1430 AM tomorrow August 25th from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

The Al Edwards Capitol Report and Legislative Update will air on this upcoming August 25th from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on KCOH Radio 1430 AM with scheduled special guest Rep. Senfronia Thompson of Houston. The program will run every other Tuesday morning at the same time slot, and it will cover the issues that impact you the most; including the hot topics, issues of interest from the State Legislature, and important local community issues just to name a few.

On the program we will touch on the recent Legislative session, including some of the bills that passed and some that did not pass, as well as, providing a recap on the recently concluded special session.

So please tune in to KCOH Radio 1430 AM or listen on the internet at: http://www.kcohradio.com/listenlive/default.asp beginning this Tuesday, August 25th from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. for an enlightening time you won't want to miss! And make sure you pass on the word!

Also I encourage you to call in to the show so that you can participate live on the air at 713.522.1001. The KCOH Studio is located at 5011 Almeda.

Best Wishes,
Al Edwards

DISTRICT 146 SCHOOL SUPPLY GIVEAWAY

2009-08-19T13:24:00.000-07:00

BACK TO SCHOOL - SCHOOL SUPPLY GIVEAWAY!

Rep. Al Edwards of District 146 and Pastor Stevenson of the House of Prayer

We are having a back-to-school give away on Saturday, August 22, 2009 from 10:00 A.M. until 2:00 P.M. We are inviting you to participate. Please bring your identification and the school age youth with you to 8401 McLean, Houston, TX 77051 in order to collect the school supplies.

Sincerely,
Rep. Al Edwards
713.741.8800

Ms. Marsha Lister
Sunnyside Park
713.734.5061

Rep Al Edwards Stays One Step Ahead of President Obama's Goal for Encouraging More Primary Care Physicians in Healthcare Debate

2009-08-11T09:43:00.000-07:00

At a recent Healthcare Town Hall meeting hosted by President Obama in North Carolina, President Obama touched on a largely unspoken but critical aspect to healthcare access that affects large portions of our population...the shortage of primary care physicians. Without access to primary care physicians and preventative healthcare many people unwisely let health issues escalate into danger zones, thereby stressing their health to limit, as well as their finances. Rep Edwards has taken the early lead in addressing this issue by passing Doctor Shortage Loan Assistance Legislation in the recent legislative session. Below is an excerpt of the exchange at the Town Hall on Healthcare by the President and further information below on the issue:

TOWN HALL ATTENDEE: "As the wife of a family physician, we see people not only coming into that specialty less and less often, but also leaving that specialty because it’s so, so hard as a young family to make that work — long hours, not great reimbursement, not great pay, with huge amounts of debt when you come out of medical school. So what are you thinking of to entice more people to come into that speciality? Because you can insure every person in America and if there’s not a physician there to see that person you still don’t have health care. So what are you going to do to entice people to come — (applause.)"

PRESIDENT OBAMA: "This is a great question. Just so everybody understands what we’re talking about here, it used to be that the most common type of doctor was the family physician. You’d go in and they knew you and they knew your family. And every once in a while you’d go to a specialist, but basically you were dealing with a family doctor. Increasingly, the economics of being a primary care physician or a family doctor is a bad deal for a lot of medical students, because they come out with hundreds of thousands of dollars of debt. But it turns out that a primary care physician...is probably more valuable to the person’s health and to the society as a whole (than a surgeon), but if it’s not rewarded, then fewer and fewer people go into that branch of medicine. If we pass health reform — when we pass health reform — then what we’re going to — (applause) — and more people now have access to the system, it is going to be vital that we increase the number of primary care physicians. The best way for us to do it is...to provide scholarships and financial incentives for young medical students who are willing to go into the primary care field...then we can change I think the incentives for a lot of doctors so that we get more and more primary care physicians."

ENTER HB 2154 by Rep Al Edwards
Under HB 2154, Rep Al Edwards has taken the first step towards helping the country's healthcare system and increasing the country's health as a whole by passing the historic Physician Loan Repayment Program- HB 2154. The bill, now law, will provide loan repayment assistance in an amount up to $160,000 in exchange for 4 years of service to primary care physicians who agree to serve in underserved areas of the state including inner cities and rural areas. This will help bring up to 900 new doctors to these urban and rural areas.

This bill is monumental because it precisely addresses the crisis at hand...Medical Students now face student loan debts sometimes in excess of $160,000 upon entering practice. Therefore the student end up choosing more highly paid specialties in order to pay off their debt. This bill will help pay off their debts in near totality for them, by simply having them commit to serve in doctor shortage areas, areas in dire need of doctors. This ends up being a win-win for both the doctors and the people in that area because now they are able to receive more of the critical preventive care which is forte of primary care physicians.

In fact, this helps in part solve the national healthcare crisis because preventive care has been proven to drastically reduce later health costs in the patient because it stems and could prevent illnesses from developing which ends costing the patient more pain, heartache, treatment and ultimately more money.

Healthy lives are the cornerstone of communities and we all must do our part to make our lives better. Rep Edwards has received awards across the state for his leadership and commitment to helping achieve these goals, and he should be applauded for doing his part to accomplish the goals set out by President Obama in the national healthcare debate.

Rep Al Edwards Earns Statewide Legislative Champion Award For Doctor Shortage Legislation

2009-08-11T08:55:00.000-07:00

Houston, TX – August 11, 2009 - Houston’s Central Care Community Health Center hosted an event today to honor Rep. Al Edwards (D-Houston) for the historic Physician Loan Repayment measure he authored in the Texas Legislature.

Edwards was presented the Legislative Champion Award by the Texas Association of Community Health Centers (TACHC) for his work during the 81st Texas Legislature.

The program is designed to bring physicians to medically underserved areas of the state and also to provide a cut in the franchise tax for at least 40,000 small businesses in Texas. The measure emerged as one of the centerpiece bills of the 2009 legislative session.

“Physicians and health centers consider this new program to be the most significant legislation to pass in decades because of its potential to bring basic medical care to millions of Texans in the inner cities and rural areas of our state,” said TACHC Executive Director José E. Camacho. “Texans for years should know it was the dedication and tireless work of state Rep. Al Edwards that made Texas a healthier, more prosperous state.”

The legislation Edwards authored creates an enhanced physician loan repayment program. It will be available to primary care physicians who agree to practice in underserved areas of the state and will assist in paying off student loans amassed during medical school training. Medical school graduates carry a debt as high as $160,000 in student loans.

“The legislation was carefully crafted by Rep. Edwards to solve a very real problem in Houston. This is an incredibly important measure, and our health center is deeply indebted to Rep. Edwards for his leadership,” said Anganette Young, Executive Director of Central Care Community Health Center. “The impact of this program will truly be seen and felt in Houston.”

The Physician Loan Repayment Program is expected to bring up to 900 new doctors to urban and rural areas.

The proposal made it through an extremely challenging legislative session. In its final version, House Bill 2154 ultimately won overwhelming support in the Texas House and Senate. In June, Governor Rick Perry formally signed the physician loan repayment bill into law. The legislation becomes effective Sept. 1, 2009.

More than half of Texas counties are in need of primary care physicians. In 2008,
26 Texas counties had no primary care physician. More than 110 Texas counties – rural and urban – have been designated as Health Professional Shortage Areas, meaning those counties do not meet a minimum national threshold of one physician for every 3,500 people.

The event honoring Edwards coincides with National Health Center Week (Aug. 9-15). The week is dedicated to recognizing the service and contributions of community, migrant, homeless and public housing health centers in providing access to affordable, high quality, cost-effective health care to medically vulnerable and underserved people across the country. Texas is home to more than 60 such centers providing healthcare services to more than 250,000 people every year. Community health center organizations in operate close to 300 health care delivery sites and serve more than 770,000 patients every year.

About the TACHC
The Texas Association of Community Health Centers is a private, non-profit membership association that represents safety-net health care providers in Texas. Association members include Community and Migrant Health Centers, Health Care for the Homeless Grantees, Public Housing Primary Care Grantees, Ryan White HIV/AIDS Grantees, Health Center Networks and other providers who strive to meet the health care needs of the uninsured and underserved. TACHC serves as the primary care association for the state of Texas.

Al Edwards Capitol Report & Legislative Update on KCOH Radio 1430 AM on August 11, 2009

2009-08-05T09:15:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends in the Community,

I would like to invite you all to listen and participate in a new bi-weekly radio program I will be having on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The Al Edwards Capitol Report and Legislative Update will begin airing on this upcoming August 11th from 8:30 am to 9:00 am on KCOH Radio 1430 AM. The program will run every other Tuesday morning at the same time slot, and it will cover the issues that impact you the most; including the hot topics, issues of interest from the State Legislature, and important local community issues just to name a few. I am pleased to be joined by this week's guest, Rep Harold Dutton of Houston who will be dropping by the show.

We will continue to touch on the recent Legislative session, including some of the bills that passed and some that did not pass, as well as, providing a recap on the recently concluded special session.

So please tune in to KCOH Radio 1430 AM or listen on the internet at: http://www.kcohradio.com/listenlive/default.asp beginning this Tuesday, August 11th from 8:30 am to 9:00 am for an enlightening time you won't want to miss! And make sure you pass on the word!

Best Wishes!

Rep Al Edwards supports encouraging more primary care physicians to help solve the healthcare crisis

2009-07-30T08:40:00.000-07:00

As the national debate over health care reaches a critical stage, State Rep. Al Edwards and the State of Texas have already taken strides in making one of President Obama's key objectives a reality. At a recent health care Town Hall meeting hosted by President Obama in North Carolina, President Obama touched on a largely unspoken but critical aspect to healthcare access that affects large portions of our population...the shortage of primary care physicians. Without access to primary care physicians and preventative healthcare many people unwisely let health issues escalate into danger zones, thereby stressing their health to limit, as well as their finances. Earlier this year, Rep. Edwards undertook efforts in addressing this issue by passing Doctor Shortage Loan Assistance Legislation- H.B. 2154 in the recent Texas legislative session.

ENTER H.B. 2154 by Rep. Al Edwards
Under H.B. 2154, Rep Al Edwards has taken a step towards helping the country's health care system on the state level and increasing the country's health as a whole by passing an enhancement of the Physician Loan Repayment Program. The bill will provide loan repayment assistance in an amount up to $160,000 in exchange for 4 years of service to primary care physicians who agree to serve in underserved areas of the state including inner cities and rural areas. This will help bring up to 900 new doctors to these urban and rural areas.

This bill is monumental because it precisely addresses the crisis at hand...medical students now face student loan debts sometimes in excess of $160,000 upon entering practice. Therefore the students end up choosing more highly paid specialties in order to pay off their debt. This bill will help pay off their debts in near totality for them, by simply having them commit to serve in doctor shortage areas, areas in dire need of doctors. This ends up being a win-win for both the doctors and the people in that area because now they are able to receive more of the critical preventive care which is the forte of primary care physicians.

Healthy lives are the cornerstone of communities and we all must do our part to make our lives better. Rep. Edwards has received awards across the state for his leadership and commitment to helping achieve these goals and continues to do his part to accomplish the goals set out by President Obama in improving healthcare.

For more information on the statewide attention that the issue of encouraging more primary care physicians has received, please see press coverage in the links below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CHmqMJxzfQw

http://healthaccessfortexas.org/news-releases/texas-legislature-gives-final-approval-to-historic-doctor-shortage-bill/

http://www.tafp.org/news/newsReleases/09FPsApplaudRepEdwards.pdf

http://www.texmed.org/Template.aspx?id=5460

http://www.connectamarillo.com/news/story.aspx?id=299277

http://www.texasinsider.org/?p=9109

http://healthaccessfortexas.org/news-releases/governor-perry-signs-historic-physician-loan-repayment-bill

http://www.amarillo.com/stories/052009/new_news14.shtml

http://www.lubbockonline.com/stories/052009/sta_441884663.shtml

http://www.texmed.org/Template.aspx?id=5463

http://www.mcdonaldpr.com/PDF%20Support/PR.5.29.Houston1.pdf

http://blogs.chron.com/fortbend/archives/rosenberg/

http://www.tafp.org/News/stories/09.06.01.1.asp

http://www.statesman.com/blogs/content/shared-gen/blogs/austin/politics/entries/2009/05/26/tobacco_tax_bill_clears_senate.html

http://sanantonio.bizjournals.com/sanantonio/stories/2009/06/29/story6.html

http://blogs.chron.com/fortbend/archives/81st_legislature/

http://www.hcms.org/Template.aspx?id=800

Rep Edwards wants University of Houston to become top tier university, Urges support of Tier One Constitutional Amendment in November

2009-07-29T14:31:00.000-07:00

Rep Edwards, fellow co-authors and author Rep Branch on the House floor

As Co-author of HB 51, which passed this session and will provide a path forward for certain Texas universities to become top tier national universities, I support the expansion of Tier 1 Higher Education institutions in Texas. HB 51 will provide a path for University of Houston to become a Tier 1 university through increased research and funding opportunities, contingent upon passage of a constitutional amendment in November. Texas currently has only 3 Tier 1 institutions, The University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, and Rice University. In order for Texas to stay competitive economically and educationally with the likes of New York & California, we must add more top tier institutions.

Rep Al Edwards Celebrates Legislative Victories in the 81st Legislative Session

2009-07-29T13:57:00.000-07:00

This legislative proved to be a session where much was accomplished, although we left some unfinished business to complete. I am extremely proud of my accomplishments this session. I worked hard to make the lives of District 146 residents better, and will continue to do so.

This session I successfully passed 5 Bills into law, in a range of areas from increasing access to healthcare to making sure industrial companies are not getting extra-undeserved tax credits to protecting our citizens from "homeless" sex offenders to making sure there is continued funding for crime victims so that they can recover in the aftermath of a crime.

Here is a brief snapshot of the bills I authored that were successful into passage:

HB 2154 by Rep Al Edwards
This historic piece of legislation provides significant loan repayment assistance to Primary Care Physicians who agree to practice in underserved and needy areas. In fact areas of District 146, such as the Central Care Community Health Center, are designated as underserved areas, which is why I fought so strongly for this legislation. This bill will help Community Health Centers attract doctors to serve, thereby leading to better health care for the most needy residents of our area.

This bill gets its funding source from changing the method of taxation on chewing tobacco, which will generate the state an additional $105 million over the next two years. What makes this piece of legislation even more important is that the extra funds in excess of loan repayment program are going to provide the much needed and heralded Franchise Tax Exemption for small businesses up to $1 million.

The importance of this bill is hard to underestimate. This bill provides a boost to healthcare and businesses in this state, directly impacting our citizens in two of the most critical areas of our lives.

HB 3206 by Rep Al Edwards
This successful bill establishes a framework for industrial companies to apply for and receive pollution control equipment tax credits on a fair and equitable basis. The bill sets up a TCEQ regulator-driven formal application process to ensure that evaluation methods for the tax credit applications is based on the actual pollution control usage of the equipment in question. This will stop industrial companies for receiving tax breaks on equipment that is used to make profits and not control pollution, which has been costing our school districts, counties, and even homeowners by not requiring these companies to pay their fair share.

HB 2153 by Rep Al Edwards
Another key piece of legislation, I passed HB 2153 to help protect our children from the horrors of sex offenders. This bill closes a loophole in the sex offender registration laws which previously did not allow for the tracking of sex offenders who claimed to be "homeless". Our police had no way to know where these sex offenders were. With the passage of this bill, a sex offender who claims to be "homeless" would be required to physically check-in to law enforcement authorities where they are located at least once every 30 days and give a description of the location or area in which they are staying. This new piece of legislation will significantly help law enforcement to protect citizens from sex offenders.

SB 1377 authored by Senator Harris, sponsored by Rep Al Edwards
I sponsored this successful piece of legislation which is designed to ensure that the Crime Victims Compensation Fund remains a solvent source of funds to provide victims of crime financial assistance to help get their lives back in order. This bill provides a mechanism so that 50% of year-end balance funds greater than $5 million which accumulate in the Crime Victims Compensation Auxiliary Fund are automatically directed to the main Crime Victims Compensation Fund. This great bill will ensure that payments to victims for costs incurred as a result of a crime committed such as medical bills or counseling are available to be made. In recent years the Crime Victims Compensation Fund had been in danger of insolvency, with this bill's passage in the future this will no longer be the case.

More important legislation I helped pass:
SB 1206- authored by Senator Hinojosa, sponsored by Rep Al Edwards I also sponsored this necessary piece of legislation to reduce the delays for the processing of parole for incarcerated persons. This bill only affects inmates who had been granted parole contingent upon completion of a rehabilitation program. Offenders were completing all their necessary programs and requirements needed to be released, however they were doing so earlier than their estimated completion date. The delays in releasing these offenders for parole limited bed capacity and causing a back log in the system producing further unnecessary expenses. The bill, as passed, allows a range of dates to release these offenders only once they've completed their approved rehabilitation program, in a range of time which is 15 to 45 days prior to the established target completion date. This streamlining process will help save the state $13.5 million over the next two years.Unfortunately, this bill was vetoed by Governor Perry even though it passed both chambers of the legislature with overwhelming support.

In addition, I also helped pass another bill SB 1206 which would have ensured that would have eliminated parole process delays for worthy incarcerated inmates who had fulfilled all their required duties and programs as outlined by the Board of Pardons & Paroles but are unable to be released because they finished the required rehab or treatment program a little earlier than expected.

This is snapshot of some of the important bills I passed this legislative session. I will provide more updates of other important legislation that passed this session in order to keep my readers informed.

For more information, please feel free to contact my office at 512.463.0518.

Al Edwards Capitol Report & Legislative Update on KCOH Radio 1430 AM

2009-07-24T15:36:00.001-07:00

Dear Friends in the Community,

I would like to invite you all to listen and participate in a new bi-weekly radio program I will be having on KCOH Radio 1430 AM.

The Al Edwards Capitol Report and Legislative Update will begin airing on this upcoming July 28th from 8:30 am to 9:00 am on KCOH Radio 1430 AM . The program will run every other Tuesday morning at the same time slot, and it will cover the issues that impact you the most; including the hot topics, issues of interest from the State Legislature, and important local community issues just to name a few.

On the first program we will touch on the recent Legislative session, including some of the bills that passed and some that did not pass, as well as, providing a recap on the recently concluded special session. I am also excited that we have scheduled Rep. Sylvester Turner to stop in for the show.

So please tune in to KCOH Radio 1430 AM or listen on the internet at: http://www.kcohradio.com/listenlive/default.asp beginning this Tuesday, July 28 from 8:30 am to 9:00 am for an enlightening time you won't want to miss! And make sure you pass on the word!

Best Wishes,
Al Edwards

Rep Edwards Passes HB 2154 to Increase Primary Care Access in Texas

2009-05-19T08:43:00.000-07:00

TEXAS ACADEMY of FAMILY PHYSICIANS
12012 Technology Blvd, Ste 200, Austin, TX 78727 | (512) 329-8666, fax (512) 329-8237

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Contact: Jonathan Nelson
Phone: (512) 329-8666, ext. 26

Rep. Edwards Increases Access to Primary Care Across Texas

The Texas Academy of Family Physicians applauds Rep. Al Edwards and his efforts to bring primary care physicians to underserved communities across Texas. With his bill, House Bill 2154, Rep. Edwards demonstrates his commitment to the health and well-being of all Texans.

“We’ve had no better advocate than Rep. Al Edwards,” said Robert Youens, MD, president of the Texas Academy of Family Physicians. “He knows that the best way to make sure Texans in underserved, urban neighborhoods and rural communities alike have access to the care they need is to bring more primary care physicians to those areas.”

Studies show that having more primary care physicians in a community leads to a decrease in the number of costly hospital admissions and emergency room visits, and patients receive better health outcomes at lower costs.

But Texas faces a severe shortage of primary care physicians. More than half of Texas’ counties need more primary care physicians, and the problem is only getting worse.

Chief among the multiple factors contributing to Texas’ shrinking supply of primary care physicians is the cost of medical school. Faced with such high medical school debt, many doctors forego practice in underserved areas, like inner city Houston.

H.B. 2154 would provide up to $160,000 in debt relief for primary care physicians who agree to practice for up to four years in health professional shortage areas.

“Rep. Edwards has a keen understanding of the health care crisis facing not just his constituents in urban Harris County, but all of Texas,” said TAFP CEO Tom Banning. “House Bill 2154 creates a new, substantial loan repayment program to relieve medical students from the crushing debt they incur in medical school, producing the kinds of physicians Texas needs to ensure patients receive the right care at the right time in the right setting.”

Family physicians and their patients appreciate Rep. Edwards’ consistent dedication to solving health care issues facing Texas. TAFP looks forward to working with Rep. Edwards to ensure that all Texans have access to primary care.

As Texas’ largest medical specialty organization, TAFP promotes and assures the maintenance of high-quality health care. It provides its members with a unified voice for family medicine and continues to be one of the most patient-oriented public health groups in Texas.

Rep Edwards Town Hall Meeting- April 23, 2009

2009-04-21T07:53:00.000-07:00

State Rep Edwards

TOWN HALL MEETING
District 146
REP. AL EDWARDS

Thursday, April 23, 2009
7:00 to 9:00 P.M.
Jewish Community Center, Kaplan Theater
5601 South Braeswood Blvd., Houston, TX 77096

TOPICS OF DISCUSSION WILL INCLUDE:
1. Stimulus Package 6. Educational Issues
2. Legislative Update 7. Hurricane & Disaster Information
3. Insurance Policy Info 8. Criminal Justice
4. Property Taxes 9. Area Agency on Aging
5. Holocaust Commission Update

I appreciate your participation and look forward to seeing you there.

Thank you,
State Representative Al Edwards

For Information Contact:
Linda Pravda Horowitz 713.721.1488
Michael Stoll 713.444.1386

Please feel free to bring in your homeowners/auto insurance policy for TX Dept of Insurance review. Pass the Word to Your Neighbors and Your Friends! Take Care!

Rep Edwards featured in informative new magazine

2009-04-21T07:46:00.000-07:00

Please visit this new web magazine to view plenty of news as well as other up to the minute information, and a great interview with Rep Edwards

>www.houston-businessconnections.com

www.peopledoingbusiness.com

Or view the clip directly at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ato2qw3sLUA&feature=channel_page

REP EDWARDS TOWN HALL MEETING - MARCH 21, 2009

2009-03-16T12:47:00.001-07:00

TOWN HALL MEETING
For District 146
REP. AL EDWARDS

Attention MemberS of District 146:
Please attend your town hall meeting on Saturday, March 21, 2009 from 12 noon to 2 pm at St. Paul Baptist Church: Marcie Keys Activity Center (Pastor James E. Nash) located at 8302 Colonial Lane, Houston, TX 77051 between Brandon Street and Rosewood, off Scott.

TOPICS OF DISCUSSION:

1. Stimulus Package 5. Educational Issues
2. Bills Filed 6. Storm & Disaster Information
3. Insurance Issues 7. Criminal Justice
4. Property Taxes

For Information Contact:
St. Paul Baptist Church
713.731.7050

Rep Edwards Legislative Update

2009-03-16T12:22:00.000-07:00

So far this session over 3,500 bills have been filed addressing a host of issues. There are many issues of focus this legislative session including:

DISASTER RESPONSE
• I've filed legislation that would establish comprehensive disaster response efforts by creating optional volunteer emergency response teams in each legislative district with the intent to enhance cooperation between authorities and residents and to assist in coordinating relief efforts to those in need.
• I've filed HB 443 to require nursing homes to have generators on site for back-up power in the event of a natural disaster and HB 441 to require gas stations to maintain a back-up power source in the event of a natural disaster as well.
COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES
• This session legislation has been filed to re-regulate college tuition rates and to revise the top ten percent automatic admission law. Other proposals include exempting college textbooks from sales taxes, which I support.
• I also strongly support legislation freezing college tuition rates for at least the next two years for public universities and colleges. However I am alarmed at the graduation rate at some of our institutions including Texas Southern University and University of Houston Downtown where only 9% of college students graduate in 5 years. We must improve on this.
TEACHER PAY RAISES & HEALTHCARE
• I've filed legislation to provide teacher pay raises, HB 660 as well as legislation to provide a 13th benefit check for retired teachers.
• I support efforts to increase CHIP coverage, including raising eligibility to 300% above poverty level, such as in HB 1769.
• I have also signed onto legislation that would provide a buy-in for the Medicaid coverage of disabled children.
HOLOCAUST & GENOCIDE COMMISSION ESTABLISHMENT
• I've co-authored legislation very important legislation that would create the Texas Holocaust & Genocide Commission to examine and educate the populace on past atrocities.
UTILITY MARKET
• Addressing regulation of the utility market in Texas, in order for consumers to obtain relief on their utility bills. There are many utility bills which I support including HB 631 & HB 1620.
TAXES
• HB 442, which I've filed limits the rate of interest accrual on the deferred property tax increases of the elderly.
• I support legislation to reduce franchise taxes on small businesses, authoring HB 1667 & co-authoring HB 720.
STIMULUS
As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I will help direct Texas' share of the Federal Stimulus funds to those in need most. Here is a quick breakdown of the funds available in Texas:
• Health & Human Services- $5.8 Billion
• Education- $6.2 Billion
• Transportation- $2.7 Billion
• Labor- $1 Billion
• Housing & Infrastructure- $957.1 Million
• Criminal Justice- $161.1 Million

For Information Contact: 512.463.0518

Rep Edwards Honors Texas Hillel & Israel Block Party

2009-03-16T12:14:00.000-07:00

Austin, TX- On March 11, 2009, State Representative Al Edwards honored Israel and the Hillel Foundation at the University of Texas of Austin with the passage House Resolution 772, which officially designated March 11, 2009, as Israel Block Party Day.
The resolution honors Texas Hillel's 11th annual Israel Block Party. The annual Block Party is a celebratory event that highlights several common aspects of the country's culture, society, and contributions that are evident and have benefited both "lone star states".
Representative Edwards was joined by several leaders from the Texas Hillel, including Rabbi David Komerofsky, Yoni Cohen, Scott Kammerman, Ellie Agnew, and Allison Goldman at the State Capitol for passage of the resolution.
Representative Edwards, a long time supporter of Israel received an enthusiastic round of applause from both the members of the House of Representatives and visitors to the gallery as the resolution was passed unanimously.
When asked about the importance of the resolution for the Texas Hillel, executive director David Komerofsky stated, "The Legislature's recognition of the Israel Block Party and Representative Edwards' leadership is a significant source of encouragement and inspiration for the hundreds of volunteers who have made this program a success. Representative Edwards responded, "I am pleased to be joining hands with the organization and encourage others to do the same".

After Hard Work, Representative Al Edwards Welcomes New Affordable Housing Development

2009-03-04T17:19:00.003-08:00

(Austin, TX)- State Representative Al Edwards applauds the new affordable, senior citizen housing development, named Mariposa Apartment Homes at Highway 288 & Reed Road. The 180-unit affordable apartment homes for seniors began housing residents in late February, with a grand opening scheduled for later this year.

Through Representative Edwards' longtime support and hard work, alongside the cooperation of both city and federal authorities as well as community organizations, the project has now come to fruition. The development will allow low-income senior residents to reside in a gated, private setting at a reduced, affordable rate.

"I encourage affordable housing in our community, especially for our senior citizens. I've supported this project since its early stages, in fact, I helped to secure tax credits for the project because there is a need for this type of housing in our community. In today's economy, it is more important than ever to have good, affordable housing for our senior citizens," according to Representative Edwards.

REP. AL EDWARDS SEEKS TO CORRECT HURRICANE IKE SHORTFALLS

2009-03-03T06:29:00.001-08:00

(Austin, TX) - On Wednesday, February 11, The House Select Committee on Hurricane Ike, chaired by State Representative Sylvester Turner, released a report consisting of recommendations in the aftermath of Hurricane Ike. Among the many key recommendations is the requirement of back-up power capability at certain critical facilities.

State Representative Al Edwards has filed bills HB 441 & HB 443 which addresses some of these concerns by requiring gas stations and nursing homes to have generators on site for emergency power in the event of a natural disaster.

The far-reaching recommendations also cite the need for better communication and coordination between authorities and residents in the aftermath of natural disasters. Separate legislation filed by Rep Al Edwards, HB 1026, would attempt to solve the dilemma by creating optional volunteer emergency response teams in each legislative district with the intent to enhance cooperation between authorities and residents on the ground. The bill would direct newly created emergency response teams to help coordinate relief aid efforts to local residents of affected areas in dire need of assistance.

The local emergency response teams would develop plans utilizing FEMA-guidelines that establish medical emergency staging sites to treat life-threatening illnesses and other medical conditions in a safe, convenient local setting. The bill would also establish communication centers in each legislative district to communicate better with residents.

"We were blessed that Hurricane Ike didn't do more damage than it did, but had the hurricane lasted just one hour longer, it would have been very devastating. Since we know more storms will occur in the years to come, we need to prepare today for tomorrow," according to Representative Edwards.

REP. AL EDWARDS RETURNS TO TEXAS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AS MEMBER OF THE POWERFUL HOUSE APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE

2009-02-22T13:49:00.000-08:00

Following the Speaker's recent announcement of Committee assignments, the return of District 146's voice at the table of Texas budget decisions has been restored.

As a member of the powerful Appropriations, Defense & Veterans' Affairs, and the Rules & Resolutions Committees, I will fight for the concerns of District 146 this session.

As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I will be addressing the tough decisions for state spending head-on supporting the causes and issues most important to the people of District 146, including to provide funds for our Houston area colleges and universities.

As a member of the Defense & Veterans' Affairs Committee, I will be able to help shape the disaster response concerns of our area, especially since I have filed legislation to created additional emergency response teams in legislative districts and to require gas stations and nursing homes to have generators.

I look forward to working hard and representing District 146 on these important matters this session!

Rep. Edwards' legislation addresses Hurricane Ike committee recommendations

2009-02-13T10:28:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday, February 11, The House Select Committee on Hurricane Ike, chaired by State Representative Sylvester Turner, released a report consisting of recommendations in the aftermath of Hurricane Ike. Among the many key recommendations is the requirement of back-up power capability at gas stations and at facilities that provide live-in care for the ill, elderly and special needs populations.

State Representative Al Edwards has filed bills HB 441 & HB 443 which addresses some these concerns by requiring gas stations and nursing homes to have generators on site for emergency power in the event of a natural disaster.

The far-reaching recommendations also cite the need for better communication and coordination between authorities and residents in the aftermath of natural disasters. Separate legislation filed by Rep Al Edwards would attempt to solve the dilemma by creating optional volunteer emergency response teams in each legislative district with the intent to enhance cooperation between authorities and residents on the ground. The bill would direct newly created emergency response teams to help coordinate relief aid efforts to local residents of affected areas in dire need of assistance.

The local emergency response teams would develop plans utilizing FEMA-guidelines that establish medical emergency staging sites to treat life-threatening illnesses and other medical conditions in a safe, convenient local setting. The bill would also establish communication centers in each legislative district to communicate better with residents.

"We were blessed that Hurricane Ike didn't do more damage than it did, but had the hurricane lasted just one hour longer, it would have been very devastating. Since we know more storms will occur in the years to come, we need to prepare today for tomorrow," according to Representative Edwards.

Houston's Al Edwards relishes return to state House

2009-02-02T07:38:00.000-08:00

He's armed with an ambitious agenda
By MATT STILES Copyright 2009 Houston Chronicle Austin Bureau

State Rep. Al Edwards, D-Houston, isn’t making any apologies.
Not for his “booty bill” that would have restricted sexually suggestive high school cheers, or for his proposed law to cut off drug dealers’ fingers, or for defying his party’s leadership during recent partisan fights.

In fact, Edwards has two words for those who thought his political career ended in 2006, when he lost the Texas House seat he’d held for more than a quarter century.
“I’m back,” he said on the floor recently with a chuckle. “I’m back.”
The real estate broker, who regained the seat in fall’s election over insurance salesman Borris Miles, returns with his seniority intact — and an ambitious legislative agenda.
Edwards, 70, has logged more time in the House than all but two members, and he’s already enjoying the trappings of that longevity.
“I got the number one parking spot. I’ve got the number one office. And I got to pick my seat,” he said. “Everything has been my choice first.”

Criticism from own party
Edwards, still sporting his scruffy moustache, also returns with baggage.
Critics say he has not accomplished much for his south Houston district since a promising start in 1979, when his bill created the Juneteenth holiday.
Some fellow Democrats have criticized his past support of former House Speaker Tom Craddick, R-Midland, who was ousted from power a few weeks ago.
Craddick used the support of Edwards and a handful of other Democrats in recent years to retain power and push a partisan agenda through the House.
Edwards, in turn, got choice committee spots but also angered Democrats with his votes and by not joining in their 2003 trip to Ardmore, Okla., in a bid to block a GOP redistricting plan.
Those votes “gave heartburn” to his fellow party members, said Gerry Birnberg, chairman of the Harris County Democratic Party.

Defends his actions
Edwards remains defiant, saying he only followed his conscience.
“I’m here not because of them,” he said. “They were not on my side. I couldn’t care less about what the House Democrats say about me.”
Edwards would rather talk about his agenda for the legislative session, which runs through June 1.
He’s filed roughly a dozen bills so far, including one that would require service stations to have emergency power generators so they could remain open following a devastating storm like Hurricane Ike.
Edwards also wants to increase a tax exemption for small businesses, regulate college tuition increases again and approve pay increases for state teachers. He said he is concerned about his constituents’ access to health care and about the needs of the elderly.
One bill that could spark controversy, at least in law-enforcement circles, would require all police officers to drive clearly identified vehicles, perhaps making it more difficult for impersonators.
“If you’re the policeman, you’re the policeman. Don’t be ashamed of it,” he said.

Calling it ‘good sense’
An ordained minister, Edwards partially sees his role as a purveyor of “good sense,” someone who speaks out for what is right.
That perhaps is one reason that his past legislation, like his 1989 bill to punish drug dealers by chopping off their fingers, sparked controversy.
“It is not right for drug dealers to be out, in our communities, on the corners, selling an illegal drug to our children,” he said, tapping his finger on the desk of his spacious office for emphasis. “If drug dealers knew that they would have something physically done to them, then they wouldn’t be selling drugs out there.”
The bill that gained the most attention, including on national television, was a 2005 measure that would have prohibited sexually suggestive performances by public school dance, drill and cheerleading teams.
“Those young girls are out on the field, performing and marching, and all those sexual gyrations, as if they were young prostitutes or something,” he said recently. “How could you not want to stop that?”

Other ‘critical issues’
Others say he is out of step with the times, a preachy relic from a past era.
“There are so many critical issues that are facing that district that need to be placed on the front burner,” said Carl Davis, a former vice chairman of the Texas Democratic Party. “I wish that he would look at those issues, too.”
But friends and supporters, like state Rep. Sylvester Turner, D-Houston, said voters decided to give Edwards another try.
“He offered himself to the people of his district again, and they said ‘yes,’ ” Turner said.
Though Edwards could face a challenge during the next election, he said he hopes to keep it as long as he is physically able to serve.
The lawmaker doesn’t yet see the end of his career on the horizon and still plays tennis three to four times a week.
Asked how he could make this new session successful, Edwards replied, “I shouldn’t have a problem with that, because I vote my conscience.”
matt.stiles@chron.com

Presidential Inauguration

2009-01-25T16:07:00.000-08:00

May we all rejoice and wish the best for our 44th President, Barack Obama who was inaugurated on Tuesday, Jan. 20th 2009. This was truly a historic day for us all and the country. All the hard work of those who came before him, as well as, those who supported him and helped him to victory should be gratified for such a momentous occasion and sign of progress that has been made. As someone who supported him, I believe he will do a fantastic job as our President. Best wishes and success to our 44th President, Barack Obama!

http://superdelegatetracker.wordpress.com/2008/05/16/superdelegate-interview-a-texan-supporting-obama/

To watch the inauguration or read his inaugural address, please click here:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/inaugural-address/

81st Texas Legislative Session Convenes

2009-01-16T13:47:00.000-08:00

The first week of the 81st Texas Legislative Session has now officially come and gone. This session we will tackle major issues in the face of a projected decline in the state budget for the next two years of about $9 billion due in part to falling revenues from sales taxes.

This week has been especially exciting after the swearing-in ceremony of the first day of session, and on the second day of session, I felt honored as I led the opening prayer of the Texas House of Representative. And now it's time to get down to work with my colleagues as we prepare for a session of helping the people.

My legislative agenda includes bills that I've filed for more rights for renters and apartment dwellers, higher standards for charter schools, increasing the salary for public school teachers, making sure electricity companies are charging their customers appropriately, requiring nursing homes to have generators, beautification projects, increasing the benefits for retired teachers, addressing disaster preparedness and response; and many more bills still being drafted.

I will keep you all informed as I continue to help the people of District 146 in the Texas House of Representatives.

I'm back in the Legislature in order to help the constituents of District 146, so if you have any questions, concerns or would like to voice your opinion on legislation, please contact my office at 512.463.0518 or 713.741.8800.