Senate Resolution No. 117 celebrates the 80th birthday of State Representative Harold V. Dutton, Jr., who has had a distinguished career in the Texas Legislature. Born in 1945 in Houston's Fifth Ward, Dutton graduated from Phillis Wheatley High School at 16, earned a bachelor's degree in accounting from Texas Southern University, and graduated from the Thurgood Marshall School of Law. He was first elected to the Texas House of Representatives in 1984 and is currently serving his 21st term. Throughout his 40-year tenure, he has held various leadership roles, including chairing several committees and being the first African American chair of the Public Education Committee.

Dutton has made significant contributions to Texas legislation, sponsoring initiatives that support women- and minority-owned businesses, enhance public education, and improve property insurance accessibility in underserved areas. He has received numerous accolades, including being named Legislator of the Year by the Texas Municipal League and recognized as a Distinguished Alumnus by TSU's School of Business. The resolution expresses the Texas Senate's congratulations and best wishes to Representative Dutton as he reflects on his impactful career and celebrates this milestone birthday.