Texas State Representative

Jarvis Johnson

Biography

Representative Jarvis Johnson has been an influential figure in Texas politics since his election in May 2016. A native of Houston, he has dedicated his life to community service as a businessman, entrepreneur, and community leader. His initiatives have significantly contributed to the empowerment and engagement of residents in District 139.

Johnson's political career commenced with notable community engagement efforts, such as hosting a job fair shortly after his election that successfully connected 45 companies with 650 job seekers. He has fostered active community participation through initiatives like the District 139 Youth Task Force, Business Source Task Force, and a Student Internship Program, aimed at encouraging civic engagement among the youth of his district. Additionally, he has addressed the need for language support by offering classes in both English and Spanish, reflecting the diversity of his constituency.

As a proven business owner, Johnson emphasizes supporting local employment and economic activity. His role as a regional director for the National DARE Plus Program and his executive leadership at the Phoenix Outreach Youth Center exemplify his commitment to youth outreach and public service. Johnson's educational background, which includes a degree in Speech Communication from Texas Southern University, has also shaped his approach to community engagement and public policy.

In the legislature, Johnson has served on several critical committees. He is currently a member of the Community Safety, Select and Homeland Security & Public Safety committees, where he focuses on enhancing public safety measures across Texas, including gun regulation and support for first responders. His participation on the Urban Affairs committee signals his attention to pressing urban development issues, while his contributions to the Appropriations Committee highlight his involvement in budgetary allocations and state funding strategies.

Johnson's legislative agenda reflects his priorities through various bills he has co-sponsored, particularly in education and social services. For instance, he co-authored House Bill 3780 on public school accountability, intending to enforce stricter performance standards for underperforming schools. This bill, alongside his support for House Bill 45, which proposes ethnic studies in public schools, underscores his commitment to reforming the education system in Texas. His advocacy for maternal health is evident in his support for House Bill 12, which extends Medicaid coverage for pregnant women from 60 days to a full year.

In terms of political leanings, Johnson has demonstrated a progressive stance on various social issues, advocating for inclusivity and support for marginalized communities. His co-sponsorship of House Bill 2055, which seeks to repeal the offense of homosexual conduct, aligns with a broader effort towards enhancing civil rights protections for LGBTQ individuals. Additionally, the emphasis on health care accessibility through support for expansions to Medicaid reflects a prioritization of preventive care and health equity.

Outside of his legislative duties, Johnson is a family man, raising two children—Nalyah and Jarvis II—in the Houston area. His background as a community organizer and business owner informs his approach to governance, further embedding his role as a dedicated public servant committed to enhancing the lives of those in District 139.