Representative Jim Pitts (R-Waxahachie) was appointed today to his second term as chair of the House Committee on Appropriations.  Representative Pitts, a nine-term incumbent, previously served as chair of the
appropriations committee in 2005.

"I am proud to have the opportunity to serve as chair of the appropriations committee once again," Pitts said.

In addition to his post as chair of the Committee on Appropriations, Pitts has been named as a member of the newly-formed Select Committee on Federal Economic Stabilization >Funding, which will be charged with making recommendations on the use of funds from the economic stimulus package being considered in the United States Congress.

"Texas faces many challenges, but it is my hope that my colleagues and I can pass a budget that not only fulfills the state's needs, but is also sensible," Pitts said.

Pitts was named to both posts by Speaker of the House Joe Straus (R-San Antonio), who was elected to lead the house by its membership earlier this year.

"Speaker Straus has done an admirable job of utilizing the expertise and talents of all House members," Pitts said. "I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in making sure that Texas remains strong and is prepared for the future."

In addition to his posts on the Committee on Appropriations and the Select Committee on Federal Economic Stabilization Funding, Pitts was named to the House Committee on Redistricting.