James E. "Pete" Laney
Following his unanimous election to the House's top post in 1993, Laney oversaw massive reforms in state government. Laney increased the appointment of women, African Americans and Mexican Americans to committee chairs and to positions of responsibility within the House. Laney guided initiatives on education, water, transportation and healthcare during his tenure. Laney also made improving the efficiency of House operations a top priority. Under his direction, the House adopted a new system of deadlines for legislation to prevent a backlog of bills from being submitted in the closing days of sessions, as had frequently happened in the past.
Pete Laney Interview, Tape 1 [side A]
Source: Texas Speakers Oral History Collection
Tape 1, side A of interview with Laney, where he recalls his childhood in Plainview, his pre-speakership career in the House, and
his election as speaker. | Pete Laney Interview, Tape 1 [side B]
Source: Texas Speakers Oral History Collection
Tape 1, side B of interview with Laney, where he describes his relationship with Governor George W. Bush and Lt. Governor Bob
Bullock, and their work on educational and tort reform, the state’s welfoare system and the juvenile justice system. Laney also discusses his reactions to the Republican Party takeover of the
House in the 2002 election. |
|
|
