AUSTIN - Today, the House Select Committee on Transparency in State Agency Operations met to discuss the expanded jurisdiction of the committee.

Speaker Straus announced today, the committee's jurisdiction has been expanded to include monitoring the conduct of appointed executive branch officers, including university regents, to ensure that these appointed officers are acting in the best interest of the agencies and institutions they govern.  The committee is authorized to investigate potential misconduct and may take further action if necessary.

Committee Co-Chair Carol Alvarado (D-Houston) gaveled the meeting into order, and motioned for the Committee to formally adopt its new charges.

"These proceedings will be both thorough and impartial, and we intend to use all necessary resources and powers at the Committee's disposal to ensure an effective investigation," said Co-Chair Alvarado. "I am confident the Committee will bring new, nonpartisan insights on what has been a contentious series of events."

Co-Chairman Dan Flynn (R-Van) stated: "Transparency is very important to all Texans and this situation is certainly one in need of transparency.  I believe it is important that these proceedings be conducted with decorum and with fair and impartial intent.  This is a strongly bi-partisan committee with a strong track record of success in passing transparency legislation during regular session and I am fully confident that we shall be able to continue working together for all Texans."

Under the speaker's proclamation and Chapter 665 of the Government Code, if the committee begins an investigation during the special session, the committee may continue its investigations during the interim.