Austin, TX – Last Week the Texas House of Representatives unanimously passed Senate Bill 410, authored by Senator Chris Harris (R-Arlington). The bill, which was sponsored in the House by Representative Tan Parker, will allow municipalities who share lake borders to enter into cooperative agreements for improving safety on Texas lakes.

"Texas lakes are some of our most precious assets that we should all be able to enjoy," Harris commented. "Unfortunately there are some out there that abuse the liberties. My goal with this legislation was to provide cities that border lakes, with the tools to assist each other in enforcing our laws that will keep the lakes safe. I was proud, with the assistance of Representative Parker and Tim Lindt, to work towards solutions to many of the issues facing the state with regards to lake safety. I hope that this legislation will help provide a more peaceful and enjoyable experience for all that enjoy our Texas Lakes."

"Our Texas lakes provide incredible opportunities for recreation, boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities," Parker added. "However, the unfortunate accidents that can occur on these lakes can have devastating outcomes, which is why I am proud to have played a part in passing this bill to improve on our water safety."

Parker continued, "I appreciate the leadership of Sen. Harris in authoring this bill, and it was an honor to work with him to help pass an important bill for Denton County."

The idea for Senate Bill 410 was originally conceived following the tragic death of Britteny Lindt, a teenage Highland Village resident. In 2006 Britteny was killed on Lake Lewisville in a boating accident involving an intoxicated boater.

With the deadline to pass legislation approaching fast, many felt that Senate Bill 410 was too far down in the process to be passed into law. However, Sen. Harris and Rep. Parker orchestrated a series of procedural maneuvers to keep the bill alive and eventually pass it on the House floor.

The Texas Senate concurred with the modifications made to Senate Bill 410 by the House, and the bill now awaits Governor Perry's signature.

Elected on November 7th of this past year, Representative Parker represents both rural and urban parts of Denton County which encompass the cities of Flower Mound, Lewisville, Highland Village, Pilot Point, Argyle, Aubrey, Krugerville, Sanger, Cross Roads, Krum, Ponder, Justin, Northlake, Copper Canyon, Double Oak, Bartonville, Trophy Club, and Roanoke.

Serving his first term in the Texas Legislature, Representative Parker is focusing his efforts on further property tax relief, appraisal reform, strengthening border security and immigration policy, promoting fiscally responsible government spending, and protecting family values. As a freshman representative, Parker earned a key appointment to the powerful State Affairs Committee. He also serves on the Human Services Committee, and the Local and Consent Calendars Committee.