Strayhorn calls for Perry to add to agenda

Star-Telegram.com | 07/13/2005 | Strayhorn calls for Perry to add to agenda: "Republican Gov. Rick Perry told a national TV audience this week that he would consider toughening laws against sexual offenders who prey on children 'when the Legislature comes back in.'

Problem is, the Legislature is back in -- as ordered by Perry himself.

Now Perry's GOP opponent, state Comptroller Carole Keeton Strayhorn, is asking the governor to add sexual assault penalties to the growing list of items eligible for debate in the special legislative session.

Perry believes that Texas has 'some of the toughest sexual assault penalties in the country' and that action this session is not necessary, said his spokesman, Robert Black. The governor determines what's on the agenda during a special session, and Perry called this one so lawmakers could tackle public school funding issues. The session ends July 20."

Pension increases for the lege, telecom giveaways are all important enough. Sexual predators aren't. Way to go Rick.