2024 PAAT Institute

This year’s Institute agenda includes everything you need to get ready for the 2025 Legislative Session and beyond. 

10AM — Welcome & TEC UPDATE

Latest Commission activity regarding rules, opinions, and fines, as well as an update on the new Commission website functionality and user experience.

Presenters: Texas Ethics Commission Chair Randy Erben and Commission Executive Director J.R. Johnson

10:30AM - SESSION COMPLIANCE & AVOIDING COMPLAINTS

Key lobby ethics compliance issues and questions. The focus includes post-election issues, key moratoriums, and what you need to know to successfully navigate the 89th.

Panelists: Ethics experts Andy Cates, Ross Fischer, Elizabeth Hadley, Ed Shack

12:00PM — KEYNOTE - LUNch WITH LEADERSHIP CHIEFS

We have invited leadership office Chiefs of Staff to give us insight on the upcoming session mechanics and issues and best practices for the lobby to engage.

Moderator: Eric Wright, former Chief of Staff, Lt. Governor Bill Ratliff

Panelists:

Robert Black, Chief of Staff, Governor Greg Abbott

Mike Toomey, Chief of Staff, House Speaker Dade Phelan

Darrell Davila, Chief of Staff,  Texas Lt. Gov. and President of the Texas Senate Dan Patrick

1:15PM — WISDOM AND WHIMS FROM LOBBY VETS

Getting clients, keeping clients and maintaining your sanity. Our panel of seasoned lobby veterans will provide tips and tricks for navigating the legislative process.

Moderator: Vilma Luna

Panelists: Denise Davis, Mignon McGarry, Scott Norman, Curt Seidlits 

2:15PM — SESSION PREVIEW FROM A MEDIA LENS

Election season aftermath and session outlook from the perspective of media leaders. The discussion will include a breakdown of leadership and issues. Q&A session included.

Moderator: Jim Henson, Texas Politics Project

Panelists: Gromer Jeffers (Dallas Morning News), Brad Johnson (The Texan), Harvey Kronberg (Quorum Report)

FINAL COMMENTS

PAAT President Tom Forbes will provide closing remarks. The Otis rooftop bar will be open for some post-event Holiday Cheer!