Carl A. Parker (August 6, 1934 – March 22, 2024) was an American politician. He served as a Democratic member in the Texas House of Representatives from 1962 to 1977 and in the State Senate from 1977 to 1995.[1][2] His tenure of service included time as Speaker Pro Tempore of the House and President Pro Tempore of the State Senate.

Carl Parker
Member of the Texas House of Representatives
In office
November 23, 1962 – January 11, 1977
Member of the Texas State Senate
In office
January 11, 1977 – January 10, 1995
Succeeded byMichael Galloway
Personal details
Born(1934-08-06)August 6, 1934
Port Arthur, Texas, U.S.
DiedMarch 22, 2024(2024-03-22) (aged 89)
Port Arthur, Texas, U.S.
Political partyDemocratic
Alma materUniversity of Texas School of Law

Senator Parker authored or co-sponsored more than 400 bills, which were enacted into state law. These measures include the establishment of Lamar University, Port Arthur; the Consumer Protection Act; Texas' First Industrial Safety Bill; the Education Reform Bill of 1984; the creation of the Texas Housing Agency; the establishment of the Port of Port Arthur; the Insurance Reform Bill of 1991 and the School Finance Reform Bill.[3]

In 1979, Parker was a member of the Killer Bees,[4] the group of twelve quorum-busting Democratic senators that hid out in an Austin garage apartment for 4½ days.

Parker died in Port Arthur, Texas, on March 22, 2024, at the age of 89.[5]

References edit

  1. ^ Carl Parker Legislative Reference Library of Texas. Retrieved July 11, 2021.
  2. ^ "Carl A. Parker". Texas State Cemetery. Retrieved July 11, 2021.
  3. ^ Top Attorneys of North America
  4. ^ "The Texas "Killer Bees"". Legislative Reference Library of Texas. May 26, 2016. Retrieved July 11, 2021.
  5. ^ "Remembering Carl A. Parker: Legendary retired state senator dies peacefully at home". KFDM. 23 March 2024. Retrieved 23 March 2024.