I want to once again thank you for the opportunity to serve as your state Representative. It has truly been an honor, and I am confident that with your continued support, we will build on the numerous accomplishments of the past six years.

When I first ran for office in 1998, I had a vision of a better Texas. In that vision was a state governed by a pro-family, pro-education, pro-economic development philosophy that put the people of Texas first. And today, I am proud to say that we have made significant strides toward making that vision a reality. It all began in 1999 with a $1.8 billion tax refund, which included, $1.3 billion in property tax relief, $277 million in sales tax exemptions, and $229 million in small business tax relief. In that same session, the Legislature passed an across the board $3,000 school employee pay raise to attract and retain the brightest Texas teachers.

During the 77th Legislative Session, we took the steps necessary to make continuing education a reality for all Texans. As our economy quickly upgrades to one that relies on technological advances and continuing education, my colleagues and I established the TEXAS Grant and TEXAS Grant II programs, which provide financial assistance to those students who show the greatest academic promise, but lack the means necessary to continue their education.

Most recently, we did what many said couldn't be done - we overcame a $10 billion budget shortfall, while funding essential services and providing $1.1 billion in new funding for public education. And I am proud to say that in all three sessions, we have made tremendous strides to promote the economic development that has made Texas the leader it is today.

Again, I thank you for the opportunity to serve as your state Representative. With your continued support, we will achieve our goal of a better Texas for future generations.

Sincerely,

Geanie W. Morrison