Published: 04-15-07
AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry today announced the promotion of Mike Morrissey to Senior Adviser on his executive staff. Morrissey has served as director of the Budget Planning and Policy Division in the governor’s office since 2001. In his new position he will continue to oversee budget policy issues for the office but will take on new roles advising the governor on fiscal responsibility and transparency and government operation.
“This promotion signals the high importance I place on state budgetary matters and my desire to push for even greater fiscal responsibility and transparency” Gov. Perry said. “I don’t know too many people in state government with a better grasp of the state’s budget. I will continue to rely on him to oversee the preparation of the budget I present to the Legislature but other key areas can now benefit from his expertise.”
As director of Budget Planning and Policy Morrissey has been responsible for development and implementation and long-range planning of the state’s $167.7 billion budget and policy initiatives.
Morrissey previously served as director of fiscal policy for former Lt. Gov. Bill Ratliff budget director for Perry when he was lieutenant governor and budget director and special assistant to former Lt. Gov. Bob Bullock. He also worked at the Legislative Budget Board from 1986-1994 as legal counsel/ budget examiner.
“Throughout his career Mike has consistently produced results” Gov. Perry said. “He was instrumental in our success in 2003 when we closed a $10 billion shortfall without raising taxes. He also helped develop fiscal policies that provided $17 billion in school property tax relief to Texans.
“He also helped secure legislative funding for the Texas Enterprise Fund and the Emerging Technology Fund – two initiatives that have made Texas the national leader in job creation.”
“Morrissey also played a key role in helping certify the 2004-05 state budget after then-Comptroller Strayhorn’s initial refusal to do so” Gov. Perry said. “He is the kind of guy you keep around and most of all listen to carefully.”
Morrissey received a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Oklahoma and a law degree from the University of Arkansas. He is licensed to practice law in Texas.
