The Texas Executive Branch is one of three branches of the state government, responsible for implementing and enforcing laws passed by the state legislature. The head of the Executive Branch is the Governor of Texas, who is elected to a four-year term and serves as the chief executive officer of the state.
The Governor of Texas has broad executive powers, including the authority to appoint officials and to veto bills passed by the legislature. The Governor also serves as the commander-in-chief of the state's military forces and has the power to call special sessions of the legislature.
In addition to the Governor, the Executive Branch of Texas includes several other elected officials, including the Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Comptroller, Land Commissioner, Agriculture Commissioner, and Railroad Commission. These officials are responsible for overseeing various aspects of state government, such as managing state finances, regulating industries, and enforcing laws.
The Executive Branch of Texas is supported by numerous boards, commissions, and agencies, which assist in the implementation of state policies and programs. Some examples of boards and commissions that aid the Executive Branch in Texas include:
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ): Responsible for protecting and preserving the state's natural resources, including air quality, water quality, and waste management.
Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT): Responsible for planning, building, and maintaining the state's transportation infrastructure, including highways, bridges, and public transit systems.
Texas Education Agency (TEA): Responsible for overseeing and regulating the state's public education system, including K-12 schools and higher education institutions.
Texas Workforce Commission (TWC): Responsible for promoting workforce development and economic growth in the state, including job training programs, unemployment benefits, and labor market research.
Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC): Responsible for providing healthcare services and social welfare programs to Texans in need, including Medicaid, SNAP benefits, and child welfare services