Tonight was the last scheduled hearing for the Committee on Criminal Jurisprudence for the 80th Legislative Session (always subject to call by the chair). We were without interns, so I did double-duty with the recording log and taking Witness Affirmation Forms. It’s not rocket science, but you do have to stay on top of a lot of moving parts all at once. My experience as a data entry clerk served me well insofar as entering the information for our witnesses into the committee system before the first Senate Bill was through. After the past two or three weeks of trying to cram as many House Bills through our committee as possible, today was very manageable.
I was excited that this was the last scheduled hearing. If there are any others, they will have to be shoehorned in very soon. Towards the end of the hearing, the excitement turned into a little bit of sadness. I have heard so many fascinating witnesses testify about how criminal laws affect their lives. I’ve heard resource witnesses explain how the systems where they work operate. I had been told that working a session is like getting a college degree in 5 months. I don’t know about that; but, I have learned and witnessed a great many things during this session. I understand that I have a unique position in seeing how a bill becomes law from working at my boss’s office and working in the committee. This opportunity occurred because I work for a chairman. Many Legislative Aides don’t get to see the inner workings of a committee. So, I am a bit sad that I won’t get to learn much more about issues that affect the citizens of Texas.
From here on out, it’s all clerical work until the end of session. The committee offices will be on standby in case we need to make any quick corrections. For the most part, I think we’ll be able to leave work while there is still sunshine. I think, however, I’ll spend any free time I have in the House and Senate galleries watching the legislature conduct their business. Though things are winding down somewhat, there is still much work to do until May 28 at midnight, Sine Die.
Today was our last regular hearing. I never thought the day would come. Now that it has passed, I look back and marvel that we’ve made it. It has been a great experience.
