81R38524 CBE-D By: Gattis H.R. No. 3118 R E S O L U T I O N WHEREAS, Hal Talton has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his fellow Texans through his exceptional work as chief of staff and general counsel for State Representative Dan Gattis for more than six years; and WHEREAS, During the 78th, 79th, 80th, and 81st Legislatures, as well as all the days in between, Mr. Talton has provided vital leadership and assistance in handling myriad tasks; his professionalism has assured the efficient operation of the office, allowing Representative Gattis to effectively devote his attention to the urgent issues facing the citizens of the Lone Star State; and WHEREAS, Mr. Talton lived in Germany as a young child while his father served in the military; he attended German schools, and he has maintained his ties to the culture as well as his ability to speak the language; a graduate of New Boston High School, he earned both his bachelor's and master's degrees in business administration from East Texas State University, and he holds a law degree from the University of Arkansas School of Law; he was previously employed by the Texas Department of Transportation and the Texas Medical Board; and WHEREAS, With characteristic diligence and dedication, Mr. Talton has shepherded numerous pieces of legislation that have benefited the constituents of House District 20 and beyond; in the 81st Legislative Session alone, he worked tirelessly on bills to protect the identity of Texans and to reform the property tax and appraisal system; along the way, he has earned the respect and admiration of colleagues for his keen attention to detail, his varied expertise, and for the care with which he approaches each new project; and WHEREAS, Mr. Talton has further distinguished himself as a member of the Texas State Republican Executive Committee, which he serves as chair of the Rules Committee; his enthusiasm for the political process is well known, and through the years, he has shared his knowledge of the Texas Legislature as a mentor to many; and WHEREAS, In his leisure time, Mr. Talton enjoys cheering for the Arkansas Razorbacks and the Round Rock Express, volunteering as president of the Bent Tree Homeowners Association, and spending time with his wife of nearly 25 years, Sandra, with whom he delights in trips to Disney World; moreover, he is a man of great faith who strives to live according to Christian ideals; and WHEREAS, Hal Talton has made invaluable contributions to the office of State Representative Dan Gattis, setting the highest standards of excellence in the performance of his duties, and it is most fitting to commend him for gute Arbeit geleistet; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 81st Texas Legislature hereby honor Hal Talton for his service as chief of staff and general counsel in the office of State Representative Dan Gattis and extend to him sincere best wishes for continued success and happiness; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Mr. Talton as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives.