Senator Carol Alvarado serves Texas Senate District 6, representing parts of Harris County. She was first elected in a 2018 Special Election and had previously served five terms in the Texas House of Representatives, where she focused on urban affairs and transparency in state operations. As a native Houstonian, Alvarado has a strong commitment to her community and the development of local policies affecting her constituents.
Currently, Alvarado is in her third term in the Texas Senate and is a member of several important committees including the Administration, Natural Resources and Economic Development, Nominations, Transportation, and the Select Committee on Redistricting. She also chairs the Texas Senate Democratic Caucus, which is indicative of her leadership role within the party.
Alvarado's legislative focus encompasses a variety of pressing issues. She has been active in promoting economic development, public health, and education initiatives. As a proponent of women's health and reproductive rights, she has worked on legislation aimed at enhancing access to essential health services. This includes sponsoring Senate Bill SJR21, which proposes an amendment to the Texas Constitution establishing an individual's right to personal reproductive autonomy.
In her time in office, Alvarado has co-sponsored several notable bills that seek to address tax relief for families and promote workforce development. For instance, she co-sponsored House Bill 300, which aims to provide a sales tax exemption for various essential family care items, thereby offering financial relief particularly to lower-income households. Another significant piece of legislation she has been involved with is Senate Bill 2507, which establishes a workforce development fund to support cultural initiatives in Texas, promoting arts and education.
Alvarado’s work on infrastructure is also noteworthy; she has sponsored Senate Bill 2506, allowing bicyclists to treat certain traffic-control devices as yield signs, which aims to enhance cycling safety. Additionally, she has been involved in urban development issues through her participation in the Urban Affairs Committee, where she seeks to address the challenges faced by urban populations.
Politically, Alvarado is aligned with progressive values, evident from her sponsorship and co-sponsorship of bills that straddle social and economic justice. She has shown particular concern for environmental issues through support for sustainable resource management, particularly as a member of the Natural Resources and Economic Development Committee. Her stance on reproductive rights and health signifies a commitment to progressive social policies, though it has also faced bipartisan contention.
Outside of her legislative responsibilities, Alvarado is known for her community engagement and advocacy, which includes her active role in addressing public health and education reforms. Alvarado holds a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Houston. She is a member of St. Alphonsus Catholic Church.
Overall, Senator Carol Alvarado exemplifies a dedication to her constituents through her legislative actions and community involvement, striving to improve the quality of life for those in Texas Senate District 6 while navigating complex socio-political landscapes.