Texas lawmakers rename highways to honor fallen deputy Garcia and Molly Mullins

The Senate Committee on Transportation convened on May 7, 2025, to discuss several significant legislative proposals aimed at honoring individuals who made notable contributions to their communities and addressing roadway safety in Texas.

The meeting began with a tribute to the late William Bob Cornett, former mayor of Crescent, who passed away on December 30, 2023. Senator Nichols introduced Senate Bill 876, which proposes to designate the newly completed Crescent Bypass on US 377 as the Bob Cornett Parkway. This three-mile route, which alleviates traffic congestion in the area, was significantly influenced by Cornett's advocacy. The committee closed public testimony on the bill without opposition and left it pending for further consideration.

Next, Senator Hinojosa presented House Bill 2523, which seeks to rename a portion of State Highway 48 in Cameron County as Deputy Constable Reuben Garcia Memorial Highway. This bill honors Deputy Garcia, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty on September 30, 2024, while responding to a traffic accident. The designation aims to serve as a permanent tribute to his dedication to public service and the risks faced by law enforcement officers. Public testimony was opened, with support registered from Laura Licata of CLEAT, but no further testimonies were heard before the committee closed public testimony and left the bill pending.

Senator Parker then introduced House Bill 2457, which aims to designate a section of US Highway 287 in Wilbarger County as the Molly Mullins Memorial Mile. This bill honors 9-year-old Molly Mullins, who lost her life in a tragic accident in 2024. Following the incident, her family worked with TxDOT to enhance safety measures on the highway, replacing cable barriers with concrete barriers to prevent future accidents. The bill serves as a tribute to Molly's memory and acknowledges her family's efforts to improve roadway safety. The committee opened the floor for public testimony, but no additional comments were made before closing the session on this bill as well.

In summary, the committee's discussions highlighted the importance of honoring individuals who have made sacrifices for their communities while also addressing critical issues related to roadway safety. All proposed bills were left pending for further review and consideration.