Business Matters June 2017 | Page 17

This bill could not have passed without the leadership of our amazing legislative delega- tion, Chairman Todd Hunter, Chairman Abel Herrero, Chairman J.M. Lozano and Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa (co-author of SB 277). It is also important to thank our chamber members and partners who volunteered their time to go to Austin and advocate on behalf of this bill. Many of our members made calls and sent e-mails to representatives across the state to remind legislators how critically important the military is to the state of Texas. State Representative Todd Hunter (R-Corpus Christi), Chairman, House Committee on Calendars: "The passage of SB 277 was a product of teamwork. Texas stood strong today to protect our military bases. A great message was sent---We strongly support our Texas Military Bases." State Representative Abel Herrero (D-Robstown): “I was proud to join our local communities in supporting this critical piece of legislation. This measure will help to secure a crucial part of the Coastal Bend economy, support our military men and women, and sustain the viability of Texas military installations.” Corpus Christi Mayor Joe McComb: “Today is a victory for Texas military installations and for pilot training in South Texas. The Legislature showed great leadership and wisdom. Texas defense communities worked together to achieve this victory. My profound thanks to all who worked for passage of SB 277 from all Corpus Christians and South Texans!” Wes Hoskins, Chairman, South Texas Military Facilities Task Force, part of the United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce: “What better time than on this Memorial Day weekend for a vote to save our military bas- es in our great State of Texas. A special thanks goes to our Chairman Todd Hunter and our Coastal Bend delegation J.M. Lozano and Abel Herrero for their work on this import- ant legislation. We are proud at the support and passage of this bill, which will protect our bases in the upcoming BRAC in 2021." UNITEDCORPUSCHRISTICHAMBER.COM 10 16