Mary E. González has served as a member of the Texas House of Representatives since her election in November 2012, representing House District 75, which encompasses much of eastern El Paso County. An active legislator, she is currently in her sixth term and plays a significant role in various committees, including as Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Committee and as a member of the House Higher Education Committee. González is also a leading voice for the LGBTQ+ community as the chair of the Texas House LGBTQ Caucus.
Throughout her tenure, González has been dedicated to advancing policies focused on public education, economic development, and agriculture. She has been involved in several significant pieces of legislation, including:
House Bill 2235: This bill seeks to amend existing statutes to facilitate opt-out testing for HIV during routine healthcare visits, promoting early detection and treatment while reducing stigma around testing .
House Bill 3377: This legislation aims to increase access to HIV testing by ensuring that those receiving screenings for sexually transmitted infections are offered an HIV test, thus supporting public health initiatives .
House Bill 133: Designed to prohibit certain restraints on students enrolled in special education, this bill aims to enhance the safety and dignity of these students while aligning educational practices with health standards .
House Bill 140: This bill establishes a co-navigation services program for individuals who are deaf-blind, ensuring that they receive necessary support through trained co-navigators .
González's advocacy and leadership are further exemplified by her role as Chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee focusing on General Government, the Judiciary, and Public Safety, where she oversees budget requirements for state agencies . Additionally, her involvement in the Public Education Committee highlights her commitment to addressing significant challenges within the education system and her efforts to secure adequate funding for educational initiatives across Texas .
In terms of political leanings, González's legislative efforts suggest a progressive stance, particularly in areas concerning public health, LGBTQ+ rights, educational reforms, and support for marginalized communities. Her sponsorship of bills aimed at enhancing access to healthcare, particularly for those with disabilities and in the LGBTQ+ community, indicates a focus on equity and inclusion. Additionally, her membership in various caucuses, including the Information Technology Caucus and her leadership role in Latino Legislative Leaders, also reflects her commitment to representing diverse constituencies in her legislative work .
González's educational background includes a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin, a master’s from St. Edward’s University, and a doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from UT-Austin. Her professional experience spans academia and community organizations, including her current role as Executive Director for the Mexican American School Boards Association and serving as an adjunct professor .
Beyond her legislative duties, González has received numerous accolades for her contributions to equality and advocacy for various social issues, reflecting her commitment to making a positive impact in her community and in the state of Texas .