To The Leader

Austin, Texas – This week, Senator Robert Nichols (R-Jacksonville) received the ‘Legislative Champion Award’ from the Texas oil and gas industry, at a luncheon for East Texas leaders at the Lufkin Lions Club.

“I am honored to be presented with the ‘Legislative Champion Award’ from the Texas Oil and Gas Association and other industry members,” said Nichols. “I understand how important the oil and gas industry is to our state in not only providing jobs for Texans, but also in ensuring Texas maintains its strong and growing economy.”

The award was presented on behalf of the Texas Alliance of Energy Producers, Texas Independent Producers & Royalty Owners Association, Texas Oil & Gas Association, Texas Pipeline Association, Permian Basin Petroleum Association, Panhandle Producers & Royalty Owners Association, Texas Royalty Owners Association and South Texas Energy & Economic Roundtable.

“Senator Robert Nichols created jobs as a private citizen and now works to ensure jobs are created in Texas by making our state competitive and attractive to investment. Chairman Nichols understands the importance of the oil and natural gas industry to funding our schools, our roads and universities,” said Todd Staples, the Texas Oil and Gas Association President. “We appreciate his leadership and forward-thinking approach to public policies that have helped Texas emerge as the fastest growing economy in the country and secured Texas’ position as the nation’s leader in oil and natural gas production, pipeline miles and refining capacity.”

First elected to the Texas Senate in 2007, Robert Nichols represents 19 counties including the greater part of East Texas.

In the Texas Senate, Nichols serves as Chairman for the Transportation Committee. He also serves on the Senate Finance, Administration and Business and Commerce Committees. He is a member of the Legislative Audit Committee and currently serving his third term on the Sunset Advisory Committee.

During his six sessions as a state senator, Nichols authored and passed legislation to protect landowners’ rights, increase educational opportunities in East Texas and reform transportation policies. He has worked to reduce Medicaid fraud, and promote free-market principles. He was designated as a Champion for Children by the Equity Center and a Fighter of Free Enterprise by the Texas Association of Business, and a Top 10 Best Legislator for the 85th Legislative Session by Texas Monthly Magazine.