Gov. Greg Abbott recently released his 2022 Report to the People of Texas, saying that last year the state stood up to challenges brought forth by deadly weather events all while going through the COVID-19 pandemic.
The report spans roughly 60 pages and is the fourth since Abbott took office in 2015. He explained that it is released during interim years when the state legislature doesn’t meet and no formal State of the State address is given. The report includes a summary of the 87th legislative session and what has been done to focus on priorities that include “building a state that is safer, freer, healthier and more prosperous,” as well as the Texas workforce that he has said has led to a thriving economy.
“Texas shines as a beacon of hope, prosperity and freedom—an economic and innovation powerhouse offering unmatched opportunities for families and businesses to grow and succeed," Abbott said. “As we have seen in years past, when tested by fire, flood or hurricane, Texans respond with resilience and calm resolve. Just as we overcame those challenges, we continue to overcome the challenges of the global pandemic. And with neighbors helping neighbors, our communities are rebounding.”
The report includes an overview of programs, grants and initiatives that the governor’s office has brought forth. His report shows that economic indicators show job growth at a record pace thanks to business investments and the diversity of the workforce across the state.
It also includes the state’s pandemic response and recovery programs, including expanding telemedicine, increasing access to COVID-19 vaccinations, expanding mental health support and extending coverage to pregnant women enrolled in Medicaid.
The report touched on Abbott’s border security measures. Another aspect acknowledged members of law enforcement and emergency personnel, as well as soldiers, who make Texas safe.
He said that Texas has always been a law-and-order state and he intends to keep it that way. This is done through measures like securing the border to stop human trafficking and drug smuggling; preventing cities from defunding the police; providing laws enforcement with tools and training; enhancing public safety and reforming a bail system that will keep criminals off the streets.
"The story of Texas has long been written by men and women who look to the horizon and see the possible, beyond all obstacles near and far,” Abbott said. “Texas is still the new frontier, a place where opportunity is abundant, where free enterprise flourishes, and where dreams, and families and jobs grow. Our past is but prologue; the greatest chapters have yet to be written. And the Lone Star State is brimming with promise.”