Advising clients concerning aspects of their business in Texas.

Colin Parrish

Partner, Statehouse Consultants

Colin is a founding partner at Statehouse Consultants, where he leads policy initiatives for a diverse range of clients, guiding complex projects from initial concept through completion. His work spans developing draft legislation, creating advocacy and business development strategies, and building tailored communication materials. With deep expertise in public policy, particularly within transportation, infrastructure, procurement, public finance, tax and fiscal policy, Colin is known for his strategic, results-oriented approach.

Colin’s career began over two decades ago after he transitioned from a research lab into the world of Texas government. Rapidly rising in influence, he became Chief of Staff to a key Committee Chairman, managing multiple offices, the committee process, budgets, and legislation, including reforms in toll road contracting and procurement. He later served as an Aide and Policy Advisor to the Texas Transportation Commission, where he provided strategic advice during a critical restructuring phase. During this time, he traveled to all 25 TxDOT districts to understand their unique needs. Colin went on to serve as the Texas Governor’s Advisor for Budget, Planning, and Policy, focusing on infrastructure, budget, and economic development. He acted as the primary liaison between the Governor’s office and TxDOT, reviewing agency policies and representing Texas as a delegate to the Border Governor’s Conference.

Throughout his public service, Colin played pivotal roles in major policy initiatives. The final bill he worked on prior to leaving government service was the passage of Prop 1, a constitutional amendment that redirected a portion of the oil and gas severance tax to the state highway fund, this annual transfer started in 2015, was $3.6 billion in 2023 and represents a projected $3.0 billion in 2024. This initiative started the state’s shift away from an overreliance on federal funding that plagues many other states.

Beyond his consulting work, Colin is active in the community volunteering and serving on multiple boards, including Capitol Credit Union, and the Capital Area Council of Scouting America, where he is Vice President of Membership. He is also a founding board member of both the Coalition for Responsible Infrastructure Finance and the Texas Gulf Coast Infrastructure Coalition. Colin’s extensive service, strategic vision, and policy expertise make him a prominent figure in Texas’s public policy and infrastructure landscape.

Amanda Schar

Partner, Statehouse Consultants

Amanda is a seasoned legislative professional with extensive experience navigating the complexities of Texas state government. She served as a longtime staff member and Chief of Staff in the Texas House of Representatives, where she managed legislative and committee processes related to regulatory, infrastructure, environmental, and licensing matters. Notably, Amanda played a critical role in the passage of significant legislation, including the Sunset bill for the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).

Now a founding partner at Statehouse Consultants, Amanda brings her deep expertise and strategic acumen to a diverse portfolio of clients. Amanda’s passion for communication and marketing shines through her ability to craft compelling and effective messaging for her clients.

Amanda’s ability to navigate the legislative process, foster collaboration, and achieve meaningful results makes her a trusted advisor and consultant in the Texas policy arena.