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February 21, 2003                                                                               (512) 463-0690

Rep. Truitt Tackles Health Care Issues

AUSTIN, Tex -- The combination of rising health care costs and a budget shortfall for the State are making the budget writing process much more challenging.  State Representative Vicki Truitt (R-Keller), who has long been considered extremely knowledgeable on health issues, is on the front line of this battle.

Because of her extensive background and experience with health issues, Rep.  Truitt is considered to be a key player in the budget making process for the state’s health  agencies.  Earlier in the legislative session, House Speaker Tom Craddick (R-Midland) appointed Rep. Truitt to several key committees including the House Select Committee on State Health Expenditures and as Chair of Budget and Oversight (CBO) for the House Committee on Public Health.  In addition, she serves on the Health and Human Services subcommittee of the important House Appropriations Committee. 

Whether it be day long hearings on multiple committees or week-end work sessions, Rep. Truitt has been very involved.  Many of her work days begin well before most businesses have opened and end well after many of the state’s school children have been put to bed.

“I knew it was going to be challenging when colleagues gave me their condolences on my committee assignments,” Rep. Truitt said.  “All joking aside, it has been an experience that I am really enjoying and proud to be a part of.”

With a looming $10-billion shortfall, many of the budget decisions will be difficult ones.  While cuts are expected, budget makers are hopeful that if all state funded agencies and organizations can cut a little, no one will have to sacrifice a lot.

To view ongoing committee hearings on the Internet or to hear archived ones, interestedhttp://www.capitol.state.tx.us. individuals can visit the Texas House of Representatives website at www.house.state.tx.us.