Watson: Yes to transportation funding, no to guns in classrooms

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Texas needs more dollars devoted to transportation needs, but does not need a law allowing concealed handguns in college classrooms, state Sen. Kirk Watson said on KXAN on Sunday.

Watson, an Austin Democrat, said the GOP-controlled Legislature appears to be ready to short-change the state's transportation sector even as Comptroller Susan Combs is forecasting a healthy revenue stream to the treasury for the upcoming budget cycle.

"With regard to transportation, we're badly behind," Watson told KXAN's Josh Hinkle on "In Session, In-Depth." "We all know when we are stuck in traffic, we need more road projects, we need more transportation projects. And it's going to take, I believe, an honesty about the need for additional revenue to pay for these projects."

So far, said Watson, who does not serve on the budget-writing Senate Finance Committee, he is not hearing those needs discussed.

The veteran lawmaker who represents most of Travis County and all of Bastrop County, said the renewed discussion about allowing guns in college classrooms is misguided. Students and staffers at the state's colleges and universities would actually be less safe under such a law, he said.

"I opposed it last time and I'll oppose it this time," Watson said.

He also appeared to rule out making another run for statewide office next year. Heading into the 2002 campaign cycle, Watson stepped down as Austin mayor to run for Texas attorney general. He lost.

Without endorsing anyone, Watson said Democrats such as state Sen. Wendy Davis of Fort Worth or Mayor Julian Castro of San Antonio could help end the party's long drought in statewide elections.