State Representative Ray Lopez of Bexar County has been appointed to the House Select Committee on Securing Texas from Hostile Foreign Organizations. He joins six other members on this newly established committee, which was created to evaluate threats from hostile foreign organizations that could potentially harm the state’s economy, security, and values.
A press release issued by Lopez's office outlines the committee's duties. These include not only analyzing threats but also assessing tactics used by foreign organizations to acquire property, such as real estate. The committee will also identify risks associated with these acquisitions. Furthermore, it will investigate intellectual property theft within the state to determine which industries are at the highest risk and propose measures to preserve business and government intellectual property.
The committee was established on May 6 by Speaker Dade Phelan. In addition to Lopez, its members include Representatives Cole Hefner (chair), Angie Chen Button, Cody Harris, Todd Hunter, Armando Martinez, and Terry Wilson.
"I am deeply honored to serve on the House Select Committee on Securing Texas from Hostile Foreign Organizations, appointed by Speaker Dade Phelan," said Lopez in the press release. "I look forward to working with my colleagues on the committee to achieve our shared goal of protecting Texans. The formation of this committee represents a crucial step forward in safeguarding our state from the undue influence of foreign entities in various domains, including real estate, business, and intellectual property. Together, we will work to ensure the safety and prosperity of our great state."