March 26, 2026 - This month marked the 175th birthday of Governor Jim Hogg, the first native-born Governor of Texas and a proud East Texan. Governor Hogg was born near Rusk and spent much of his life advocating for the people of this region. His legacy is a reminder of the deep roots East Texas has in shaping our state’s history and the responsibility we carry to continue that work today.
Here are five things happening around your state:
1. Lone Star Legislative Summit coming to Nacogdoches
On April 9th and 10th, Nacogdoches will host the Lone Star Legislative Summit, bringing together state leaders for important policy discussions. The event, hosted by the Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce and held at Stephen F. Austin State University, provides a valuable opportunity for East Texans to engage directly with those shaping policy at the state level. The summit will feature a series of public panel discussions on issues impacting our region, including water policy, workforce development, and the role of media in state government. I will be joining several of my colleagues for a panel discussion on water policy, which remains one of the most important issues facing our region as it continues to grow. I encourage anyone interested to attend and take part in these discussions. For more information or to register, please visit https://nacogdoches.org.
2. TxDOT approves rail separation grants to improve safety and mobility
The Texas Department of Transportation recently approved more than $160 million in funding for rail grade separation projects across the state. These projects are designed to eliminate dangerous at-grade crossings by separating roadways from rail lines, which helps reduce traffic delays, improve emergency response times, and enhance overall safety for drivers. This funding comes through a new program created by the Legislature last session to support communities with significant rail activity. I was proud to file and pass the legislation establishing this program, which provides meaningful resources to address long-standing rail and roadway conflicts across Texas. In addition to the initial project funding, the Commission also set aside nearly $90 million to help local communities compete for federal grant opportunities, allowing Texas to maximize its investment in critical infrastructure.
3. Governor announces grant funding for psychiatry fellowships
This month, Governor Greg Abbott announced $5 million in grant funding to expand Texas forensic psychiatry fellowship programs. These programs provide advanced training for physicians specializing in mental healthcare, particularly in cases involving the legal system such as competency evaluations and treatment for individuals involved in criminal or civil proceedings. This investment will support nine medical institutions across the state, including University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler, which plays an important role in serving East Texas. By strengthening these training programs, Texas is working to grow its mental health workforce and improve access to care in communities that need it most.
4. SFA students advocate in Washington, D.C.
Students from Stephen F. Austin State University recently traveled to Washington, D.C. to participate in a national undergraduate research advocacy program. These students were selected through a competitive process and represented both their university and the state of Texas while engaging with policymakers on the importance of research funding. During their visit, the students met with congressional offices to discuss how undergraduate research supports innovation and strengthens our workforce. I commend these students for their leadership and for representing East Texas so well on the national stage. Their efforts are a strong reminder that advocacy plays an important role in shaping public policy, and that even a single conversation can help make a meaningful difference.
5. SNAP purchase changes will take effect on April 1st
Beginning April 1st, new changes will take effect for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program in Texas. SNAP benefits will no longer be eligible for use on certain items, including candy, gum, and sweetened beverages. The updated guidelines are intended to encourage healthier food choices and support long-term wellness for recipients across the state. Texans with questions about their benefits or eligible purchases can contact 2-1-1 or visit http://www.hhs.texas.gov/.
