Jacksonville Senator Named to State Sunset Commission

AUSTIN — Lt. Governor Patrick has made six appointments to the Texas Sunset Commission. One of those is State Senator Robert Nichols of Jacksonville.(pictured) He will be fulfilling the unexpired term of Senator Jane Nelson. Nichols previously served on the commission from 2009 to 2013. He also served as vice chairman of the panel. Patrick feels the commission has a challenging assignment ahead of it in the next legislative session. He said in a news release, “These appointees will first decide if the functions of state agencies under review are needed, and secondly, whether they are operating in the most efficient and cost-effective manner.” The Lt. Governor also announced that Senator Brian Birdwell will replace Senator Kevin Eltife of Tyler as a member of the Senate Finance Committee. Senator Eltife has announced he will not be seeking re-election.