Penny Morales Shaw serves as a State Representative for the 148th District in the Texas House of Representatives, a role through which she advocates for her constituents in parts of Spring Branch, Garden Oaks / Oak Forest, Carverdale, and Cypress-Fairbanks. A Houston native and attorney, she has built a diverse professional background that includes serving as a legal advisor and policy strategist, notably as the Deputy Chief for the Harris County Commissioner.
Raising four children as a single mother while managing a multi-state law practice has shaped her views on public policy, emphasizing the need to support working families. Throughout her legislative career, she has sought to address the struggles families face, particularly in her advocacy for education reform, healthcare access, and environmental protection.
During the 87th Legislative Session, Shaw served on vital committees including the House Committee on Environmental Regulation and the House Committee on Urban Affairs. Her engagement within these committees reflects her commitment to overseeing regulations that affect both urban development and environmental policies, showcasing her dedication to sustainable community practices.
Shaw has sponsored and supported a range of legislation that illustrates her political priorities:
House Bill 772 aimed to prohibit corporal punishment in public schools, an initiative appealing to advocacy groups focused on child welfare and educational reform. Though this bill failed to pass, it highlights Shaw's focus on aligning school policies with current best practices in child development.
House Bill 3991 established Texas Fruit and Vegetable Day in public schools to enhance awareness about nutrition among students. The bipartisan support for this bill indicates a collective recognition of the necessity of promoting healthy diets among children, reflecting an emphasis on public health.
House Bill 3220 sought to assess the use of surplus government property to provide housing for homeless veterans, responding to the urgent need for veteran support and housing solutions in Texas.
House Bill 181 proposed the establishment of a sickle cell disease registry, aiming to improve healthcare outcomes through better tracking and resources for individuals affected by this condition.
In relation to environmental issues, Shaw co-sponsored House Bill 1200, which focused on legalizing the use of medical cannabis in Texas. This bill has garnered support from patient advocacy groups, showcasing a trend toward prioritizing medical treatment options and the need for regulatory oversight.
Shaw's political leanings appear progressive, as seen through her advocacy for women's health, education equity, and environmental sustainability. She is a notable member of various caucuses including the LGBTQ Caucus and the Texas Women’s Health Caucus, reinforcing her commitment to inclusive policies that support marginalized communities.
In her personal life, Shaw's experiences and challenges, along with her legal and community leadership roles, serve as a foundation for her legislative agenda. Awarded "Freshman of the Year" by the Mexican American Legislative Caucus for her first session's accomplishments, Shaw continues to leverage her position to push for legislative reforms that resonate with her constituents, particularly focusing on challenging issues related to civil rights and public health.