Mary Ann Perez is a seasoned political figure currently serving as a State Representative for Texas House District 144, a position she has held for five terms. Prior to her tenure in the Texas legislature, she was the Chair of the Houston Community College Board of Trustees, where she focused on enhancing educational programs to align with workforce needs.

Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Mary Ann graduated from Milby High School and later obtained a degree in Business Administration from the University of Houston-Downtown. In addition to her educational background, she successfully established an insurance agency serving Southeast Harris County. Throughout her career, she has maintained strong ties to her community, actively engaging in volunteer activities with local schools and civic organizations, including serving as the President of the Meadow Creek Civic Association. She is a mother of two sons, which adds to her drive for policy changes that benefit families in her district.

In the Texas House, Representative Perez serves on several key committees, including the Insurance Committee, where she addresses pivotal industry regulations and consumer protections, and the Transportation Committee, which focuses on improving the state’s infrastructure. Her responsibilities extend to the Appropriations and Pensions, Investments, and Financial Services Committees, where she collaborates with colleagues to develop responsible budgetary policies and regulations that affect financial security for Texans.

Throughout her legislative career, Mary Ann Perez has sponsored and co-sponsored a number of significant bills that showcase her commitment to education, public safety, and fiscal responsibility. For instance, her support for House Bill 3780, aimed at enhancing accountability within the public school system, reflects her dedication to ensuring quality education for all Texan students. This bill, which is designed to address the challenges faced by underperforming schools, has garnered significant discussion about balancing accountability measures with necessary support for educational institutions.

Additionally, she co-sponsored House Bill 3852, which seeks to streamline the prosecution of financial fraud. This effort highlights her commitment to consumer protection and criminal justice reform. The bill received bipartisan support, indicating a strong legislative consensus on the need for effective legal frameworks to combat increasing financial crimes.

In terms of her political leanings, Representative Perez’s legislative actions reflect a centrist approach, combining progressive elements focused on education and community safety with fiscal conservatism evident in her attention to budgetary allocations and consumer protections. She has shown a willingness to work across party lines to achieve policy goals, highlighting her collaborative nature in the legislative process.

In summary, Mary Ann Perez is an influential voice in Texas politics, advocating for effective legislative measures that prioritize education, community welfare, and public safety. Her extensive background in both business and public service, combined with her personal dedication to her constituents and community, positions her as a key figure in shaping Texas' future.