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Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the storied public service of State Senator Jane Nelson. Senator Nelson retired from serving the people of North Texas in the Texas State Senate after a historic 30-year career, making her the longest-serving Republican in the Texas State Senate. She served as Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee and was the first woman in Texas legislative history to chair a standing budget-writing committee. Before becoming Chairman of the Finance Committee, she was the longest-serving Chairman of the Health and Human Services Committee. She even authored three consecutive balanced budgets--a feat, if accomplished in Washington, D.C., would be of great benefit to our country.
Her legislative accomplishments are far too numerous to name and speak for themselves. Senator Nelson displayed a tireless commitment to her constituents and conservative values throughout her time in the state legislature. Senator Nelson is a businesswoman, former teacher, and proud mother and grandmother who was never afraid to tackle issues that matter the most to Texans.
Senator Nelson is truly committed to public service. She has a proven track record and a deep understanding of state government. Because of this, Governor Abbott appointed her to serve as Texas Secretary of State. In her new role, I know she will work hard to ensure that elections in Texas are fair and have accurate, timely results.
On top of her years of public service, Senator Nelson remained active in the North Texas community. While raising her children in Denton County, she founded adult literacy programs, served in the PTA, and volunteered in her community.
I am honored to know Jane Nelson and call her my neighbor and friend. I congratulate Jane on her retirement from the Texas Senate. A job well done. I know she will continue to deliver results for the great people of Texas in her new chapter of Public Service.
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