Perry-O-Meter

Tracking the promises of Rick Perry

Will seek a "constitutional amendment requiring a two-thirds vote of the Legislature to increase state taxes."

"On the water side, I sincerely believe that the 82nd Legislature must finally execute our state’s water plan to help meet a demand that is expected to grow 18 percent over the next 50 years as our population doubles. Some might call the current price tag steep, but we must invest soon to avoid a water crisis in the not too distant future."

Pave "the way for ongoing job growth by purging unnecessary laws and regulations that stifle Texas entrepreneurs."

"Texas will continue to live within its means, and under my leadership, we will do it without a tax increase."

Impose "criminal penalties on employers who knowingly violate employment laws by hiring workers who are in Texas illegally."

Will "oppose and veto any and all efforts to increase taxes."

"Double the number of Texas-Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (T-STEM) academies from 46 to 92, significantly increasing the number of students attending the academies."

"Create a $100 million T-STEM Challenge Scholarship for students at universities, community colleges and technical colleges pursuing degrees and certifications in the science, technology, engineering, math or medical fields."

Make "permanent the recent tax cut extended to 40,000 small businesses in the last legislative session (under current law, the $1 million business margins tax exemption will expire in 2011)."

"Expand the Advanced Placement Training and Incentive Program to 50 additional high schools."

Will reduce a state backlog of more than 38,000 pending veterans claims.

Fund "up to 12 new veterans counselors to help the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) assist the VA to more quickly process benefits claims."

Will promote a constitutional amendment to "require the Legislature to limit growth in the state budget to no more than growth in population and inflation combined."

In "order for high school-aged individuals to get and keep a driver's license they should be enrolled in school, be it bricks and mortar or our virtual high school, and, most importantly, working toward their diploma or GED."

Establish "a statewide inspector general to maximize cost efficiency and effectiveness at state agencies."

"Secure $5 million to enhance Texas Virtual School Network so it serves more students and districts are encouraged to participate and contract with private course providers to expand course offerings."

Perry said he would "absolutely" serve his full term if elected, provided he lives that long.

"I don't want to be president of the United States. I'm not going to run for the presidency of the United States."

Continue "to commit state funding and resources for additional border security efforts in order to protect our communities and legitimate cross-border trade and travel, while enforcing the laws already on the books."

Offer businesses a tax incentive of $1,500 for each full-time employee who earns a high school diploma or GED. Business would be required to grant their employees two hours a week of paid time off to study or attend class.