Governor Greg Abbott appointed Ben Scholz and reappointed Jimmie Ruth Evans, Barret J. Klein, Joe Leathers, and Thomas “Tommy” Oates to the Texas Animal Health Commission for terms set to expire on September 6, 2031, according to a Mar. 19 announcement. The commission is responsible for protecting and enhancing the health of animal populations across Texas.
The appointments are significant as the commission plays a key role in maintaining livestock health and supporting agricultural interests in the state. The new and returning members bring experience from various sectors of Texas agriculture.
Ben Scholz owns B. Scholz Farms and has held leadership roles with the Texas Wheat Producers Board and National Wheat Foundation. He also serves as president of the Collin County Farm Bureau and is involved with several other agricultural organizations. Scholz holds a Bachelor of Science in Agri-Business from East Texas A&M University.
Jimmie Ruth Evans is a rancher from San Antonio who partners at Wittenburg Ranch. She has served as president of both the San Antonio Livestock Show and Rodeo and the Texas Sheep and Goat Raisers Association. Evans earned her degree in Elementary Education from Texas Tech University.
Barret J. Klein operates Klein Farms and Klein Smoked Meats, LLC in Boerne, participates in multiple livestock associations, and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from Texas A&M University. Joe Leathers leads operations at 6666 Ranch, sits on several cattle industry boards, and attended Clarendon College. Thomas “Tommy” Oates is a rancher based in Huntsville who previously owned Huntsville Livestock and led the Exotic Wildlife Association; he attended Sam Houston State University.
According to the official website, Governor Abbott’s office has contributed to job growth, record employment levels, statewide service delivery, economic opportunities, education enhancement, individual liberties protection, parental empowerment in schooling, southern border security efforts, and maintains its primary offices at the State Insurance Building in Austin. Greg Abbott was elected governor in 2014 and was recognized among TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in 2024 according to official sources.
The appointments reflect ongoing efforts by state leadership to support agriculture while addressing broader priorities such as economic development across Texas.
