Statement from TABC Chairman Kevin Lilly on the Texas Senate's Confirmation of Justice Jason Boatright's Appointment to the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission

"I'd like to offer my heartfelt congratulations to Justice Jason Boatright on his appointment to the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission. Justice Boatright is truly one of Texas' great legal minds, and his years of legal experience and impressive resume will make him a valuable member of our Commission.

This is an extremely exciting time for TABC. The Sunset process is expected to bring about some much-needed changes in terms of efficiency and processes that will help TABC continue its growth and make us into an elite law enforcement and regulatory state agency serving the people of Texas. I fully expect Justice Boatright to play an important role in our transformation and look forward to hearing his ideas as we adopt the Legislature's recommendations.

Finally, I'd like to thank Governor Greg Abbott for his continued support and leadership. His track record of nominating exceptional candidates for our state's boards and commissions will continue to reap the benefits for all of Texas' citizens and business owners."

BACKGROUND: Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced the appointment of Justice Jason Boatright to the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission April 29. The Texas Senate this week voted to approve Boatright as the Commission's third member, joining Chairman Kevin Lilly and Commissioner Ida Clement Steen. Boatright's term as Commissioner is set to expire Nov. 15, 2023.

Commissioner Jason Boatright is a partner with the law firm of Cantey Hanger LLP in Dallas. Previously, he served as a justice on the Texas 5th Court of Appeals. He has also served as the chief of the Attorney General's Opinion Division and Director of the Texas Railroad Commission's General Counsel Section. In his free time, Commissioner Boatright researches and writes about Texas constitutional law and legal history. He was born and raised and Austin, but now lives in Dallas with his wife and baby daughter.

Media Contact:Chris Porter Public Information Officer (512) 206-3462