Texas Border Business
By DAVID A. DÍAZ
Although he faces no opposition this year for election to a sixth two-year term, his efforts on behalf of law enforcement and protecting citizens from criminals has drawn praise for Rep. Terry Canales, D-Edinburg, from CLEAT, which is the largest police labor organizations in Texas.
Canales, who serves as Chair, House Committee on Transportation, recently was presented the Law Enforcement Leadership Award, as well as the endorsement, from the Combined Law Enforcement Associations of Texas, CLEAT.
In addition, Canales has been endorsed for reelection by the organization, which is an independent labor organization representing 27,000-plus members statewide in more than 800 law enforcement agencies and represents more than 100 local law enforcement associations.
“I am grateful for the recognition and support of CLEAT, whose leadership and members are very influential in the introduction and passage of major state laws and state policies which benefit law enforcement in Texas and the citizens they are sworn to protect,” said Canales.
CLEAT does not seek or accept any local, state or federal grants and is solely funded by its members.
According to its Facebook, CLEAT officials stated that the organization appreciated Canales’ efforts throughout his legislative career, including during the most recent legislation – the 87th Texas Legislature, which took place from early January 2021 through May 2021 – “to get Senate Bill 22 and other law enforcement bills to the finish line. Rep. Canales and his staff have gone above and beyond for years and have worked with us on every detail to pass good legislation.”
Canales was a Joint Sponsor of Senate Bill 22, which makes it easier for key law enforcement, public safety, and emergency medical services professionals who die, become disabled, or become sick from contracting COVID-19, to be protected, as well as their spouses.
In the Texas House of Representatives, a Joint Sponsor is a member authorized by the chair of the committee reporting a Senate bill or resolution to join in the sponsorship of the measure.
Up to four joint sponsors may be designated per measure.
