Cohen Connection

Fundraising Deadline Approaches

December 18, 2009

Also in this newsletter…

An Update from Representative Cohen

I filed my application for reelection with Harris County Democratic Party Chair Gerry Birnberg on December 3, the first day available for filing. When asked why, the answer came easily. I wanted to demonstrate my enthusiasm, passion and energy to serve the people of District 134. I am both honored and privileged to advocate on behalf of constituents regarding issues they care about – healthcare, education, the environment, public safety, and personal life decisions, seeking a focus on fiscal responsibility.

During the interim, I have several responsibilities. For instance, we recently received the Interim Charges for House Committees from Speaker Joe Straus. As part of the Appropriations Committee, I will be addressing 15 charges and with the Higher Education Committee, looking at 9 charges. For the complete list of Interim Charges, click here. I will also be examining potential legislation for the 82nd Legislation Session. (By the way, you can find a great summary of the 81st Session by clicking here.)

My door is open to hear any concerns you may have regarding a current situation or future legislation. As always, I welcome your email or phone calls (713.627.0134).

State Representative Ellen Cohen

Ellen in the District

Zach Pearson, a 12-year-old Boy Scout recently visited the District Office to interview Rep. Cohen for a scouting project. Zach is a resident of Southside Place.

Fundraising Deadline Approaches

December 31 marks the 2009 fundraising filing deadline. Any contributions will be a great help in continuing the campaign at full speed and will be appreciated. Click here to donate.

Helpful Websites

The following websites provide further information on issues addressed by the 81st Legislative Session or having a direct impact on constiuents in District 134:

Bike Texas ParentsPlus Program
Latest Top Ten Percent Report from UT-Austin
Tracking Stimulus Funds In Texas
Official State of Texas Unclaimed Property Web Site

Texas Tomorrow Fund Reverts to Former Policy

The Texas Prepaid Higher Education Tuition Board voted on Nov. 5, 2009, in favor of a proposal to revert to the former policy for refunding unused tuition hours when a Texas Guaranteed Tuition Plan contract is cancelled or a refund is requested. For most contract holders this change requires no action. The Texas Guaranteed Tuition Plan and all recent changes are explained in full at www.tgtp.org.

Happy Holidays

In observance of the holidays, the District and Austin offices of Rep. Cohen will be closed on Dec. 24 and will reopen on Jan. 4. Rep. Cohen and staff wish you a very safe and enjoyable holiday season.