Representative James Frank has been serving the 69th House District in Texas, which includes Archer, Baylor, Clay, Cottle, Foard, Fisher, Haskell, Hardeman, King, Knox, Motley, Stonewall, Wichita, and Wilbarger counties, since 2012. Currently in his sixth term in the Texas House of Representatives, he holds the position of Chairman of the Human Services Committee and also serves on the Defense and Veterans’ Affairs Committee and the Select Committee on Health Care Reform.
As Chairman of the Human Services Committee, Representative Frank has advocated for significant reforms within the Department of Family and Protective Services, striving to increase efficiency, effectiveness, and accountability, particularly in child welfare services. He has successfully spearheaded legislation aimed at transitioning Texas's foster care system to a community-based care model, which aims to prevent the unnecessary removal of children from their families. His commitment to healthcare reform is further reflected in legislation designed to improve the state's Medicaid program.
In addition to his legislative achievements, Representative Frank has played an active role in a number of important bills. Notably, he co-authored House Bill 4453, which aims to enhance college and career readiness outcomes in Texas schools by adjusting funding mechanisms for school districts based on student achievement, particularly focusing on disadvantaged students. He also co-authored House Bill 25, which facilitates the wholesale importation of safe, affordable prescription drugs from Canada, a move aimed at reducing drug costs for Texans.
Other significant legislative efforts include House Joint Resolution 126, proposing a constitutional amendment to protect agricultural rights in Texas, and House Joint Resolution 1, designed to cap the maximum appraisal value of real property for tax purposes — both reflecting his support for property and agricultural rights. He also supported House Bill 3317, which focuses on establishing primary care access programs at federally qualified health centers, enhancing healthcare access for vulnerable populations, and House Bill 4154, aimed at improving recruitment and retention of mental health professionals by establishing the Texas Mental Health Care Enterprise Fund.
Additionally, Representative Frank pushed for accountability regarding the use of public funds for lobbying through House Bill 3538, which restricts political subdivisions from using taxpayer resources for lobbying activities. He has also worked on legislation like House Bill 19, which seeks to establish a specialty trial court for business-related disputes to enhance judicial efficiency in Texas.
In terms of his political leanings, Representative Frank typically supports legislation that emphasizes limited government intervention, personal responsibility, and local control. His focus on child welfare, mental health, and healthcare accessibility indicates a balanced approach, advocating for the welfare of vulnerable populations while also promoting fiscal conservatism and reduced regulatory burdens on businesses and local governments.
A longtime resident of Wichita Falls, Texas, he is deeply rooted in his community. Together with his wife, Alisha, they have six sons and two daughters-in-law, along with two granddaughters. Frank is not only involved in public service but also operates several manufacturing companies based in Wichita Falls, reflecting his commitment to local economic growth and community development. He is a graduate of Texas A&M University, where he earned a degree in Finance, further emphasizing his strong background in economic issues relevant to his legislative role.