Dan Patrick

Statement on Attorney General Ken Paxton’s Legal Opinion on School Choice

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued the following statement in response to Attorney General Ken Paxton’s legal opinion that there is no constitutional barrier prohibiting school choice in Texas: “Attorney General Paxton’s opinion that school choice is legal and constitutional in Texas is not surprising, but it is still great news for all Texans. All Texas children deserve an education that best fits their needs, and parents should not be forced to send their children to schools that they do not believe are best for their child. The Attorney General’s legal opinion is grounded in the United States Constitution and is common sense. Republicans, Independents and Democrats overwhelmingly support school choice.”

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick: Statement on the Passage of SB 24

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following the Texas Senate’s passage of Senate Bill 24, by Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, R-Brenham: “As a Christian and a conservative, I have always been committed to helping as many women choose life as possible. When the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022, I said this was an acknowledgement of the truth: when an abortion is performed, a human life is ended. That victory was not just a victory for innocent life, but a victory for all of humanity.

“Over the years, Texas has led on Alternatives to Abortion programs, which have been a lifeline for many new mothers and families. SB 24 codifies and renames the program to the Texas Pregnancy and Parenting Support Network and will promote healthy pregnancy, childbirth, and family formation, and help families achieve economic selfsufficiency. SB 24 also moves more support services to the purview of the Texas Health & Human Services Commission to allow for better coordination between services.

“I know the reformed Texas Pregnancy and Parenting Support Network will provide key resources and help countless new mothers and families well into the future.”