(Austin) - On Friday, September 28th, Speaker Tom Craddick (R - Midland) appointed Rep. Tan Parker (R - Flower Mound) as joint presiding officer of the Health and Human Services Eligibility System Legislative Oversight Committee.

"Health and Human Services issues were at the forefront of the debate during the last session, and the 80th Legislature made some major strides to improve our health care system in Texas," Speaker Tom Craddick said. "Nevertheless, there is always more that can be done, and it is imperative that we ensure the efficiency and functionality of our eligibility system. Rep. Parker showed great leadership on the Human Services Committee, as well as a subcommittee on integrated eligibility, and I am pleased to appoint him as joint presiding officer of this oversight committee."

The Health and Human Services Eligibility System Legislative Oversight Committee will conduct hearings once every four months and review information related to the implementation of the eligibility system to make certain it is fully functioning and meeting its intended goals.

The committee is made up of seven members: the Chair of the Senate Health & Human Services Committee, the Chair of the House Health and Human Services Committee, two members of the Senate appointed by the Lt. Governor, two members of the House appointed by the Speaker, and an additional member appointed by the Governor.

"I am honored that Speaker Craddick has appointed me to this vital Oversight Committee," Parker added. "I look forward to working with the committee in the months ahead as we address how to efficiently deliver services to Texas' neediest citizens, while maximizing the use of taxpayer resources."

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.