[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 195 (Thursday, December 15, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1309]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING TEXAS STATE SENATOR EDDIE LUCIO, JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MAYRA FLORES

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, December 15, 2022

  Mrs. FLORES. Madam Speaker, today, I rise to honor Texas State 
Senator Eddie Lucio, Jr. for his 36 years of service to the residents 
of South Texas, 32 of which have been spent in the Texas State Senate.
  Senator Lucio was born in Brownsville, Texas, and graduated from Pan 
American University. His public service career began in 1971 when he 
was elected Cameron County Treasurer at just 24 years old. For the next 
15 years, Senator Lucio served in the local county government before 
being elected to the Texas House of Representatives in 1986 and then to 
the Texas State Senate in 1990.
  While serving in the Texas State Senate, Senator Lucio was a champion 
for education, including the creation of South Texas College, the 
University of Texas at Brownsville, and the University of Texas Rio 
Grande Valley. In addition, he spearheaded efforts for the creation of 
the University of Texas RGV School of Medicine.
  Not only did he make significant advancements in establishing these 
colleges, but he also improved teachers' retirement system and expanded 
universal breakfast and lunch plans for students.
  As a devout Catholic, Senator Lucio is affiliated with organizations 
like the Knights of Columbus and Catholic Legislators Network and has 
been unapologetic about his convictions. Throughout his time in the 
Texas State Senate, Senator Lucio remained steadfast to his values, 
even when this meant not being popular within his own party.
  Senator Lucio has been married to his wife, Minnie Lucio, for 54 
years and is the father of 2 children, Lynda Lucio-Cisneros, a school 
counselor, and Eddie Lucio IV, a member of the Texas House of 
Representatives.
  For this, and for his great mentorship, I am truly grateful for 
Senator Lucio's service and know that the RGV region and the State of 
Texas, are forever better because of his dedication and service.

                          ____________________