Solomon Ortiz, Jr.

April 30, 2009

~ Higher Education Coordinating Board Vote is Unanimous ~

AUSTIN- State Representative Solomon Ortiz, Jr. praised today's Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board vote to give final approval to a new mechanical engineering program at Texas A&M University--Corpus Christi.

"This is a great day for higher education in Corpus Christi and South Texas," Ortiz said. "The Higher Education Coordinating Board recognized the need to train qualified engineers and to expand educational opportunities in South Texas."

"Support from the community has been tremendous," Ortiz added. "State funding along with almost $3 million in pledged funding from the community will get the program off to a strong start."

Funding for the engineering program is included in the Senate version of the state budget (SB1) and in Article 11 of the House version. A conference committee that includes Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa has been appointed to reconcile the two versions.

"I have spoken with Speaker Joe Straus, House Appropriations Chairman Jim Pitts, and Vice Chairman Richard Raymond, who are supportive of the funding," Ortiz said. "With their support and Sen. Hinojosa on the SB1 conference committee, I'm confident the program will be fully funded this legislative session."

Ortiz represents District 33, which includes part of Nueces County and the City of Corpus Christi. Rep. Ortiz encourages constituents to contact his office on this or any issue of interest at (512) 463-0484, email him at district33.ortizjr@house.state.tx.us or visit the Texas House of Representatives web site at www.house.state.tx.us.