Texas Legislature
(1984-1990)


Bob Melton served three consecutive terms in the Texas House of Representatives, representing Coryell County and surrounding communities from 1984 to 1990.

Elected during a period of significant change in Texas politics and public policy, Melton focused his legislative work on issues affecting public safety, local government, and vulnerable populations.

He served during the 69th, 70th, and 71st Texas Legislative Sessions, earning a reputation as a serious legislator who prioritized practical outcomes over partisanship. During his tenure, Melton worked across party lines to address complex statewide and local challenges, with particular attention to law enforcement, human services, and county-level governance.

Beyond the Legislature

Melton’s legislative service shaped a leadership approach that continued well after elected office, influencing his later work in civic leadership, creative pursuits, and advocacy.

Texas House of Representatives
Representative

Coryell County | Central Texas


1984 – 1990

  • 69th Legislative Session

  • 70th Legislative Session

  • 71st Legislative Session

Important legislation drafted: Anti Speed Trap, Run Away and Throw-Away Kids, Prison Reform, Capital Punishment, and Suicide Prevention legislation,  (5 bills passed on teenage suicide, trying to keep people from killing themselves, staying out of prison and off death row)

Committee Assignments

Appointments on key committees reflected his legislative interests as well as the trust placed in him by House leadership:

71st Legislature - 1989

  • County Affairs

  • Human Services (Vice Chair)

  • Human Services Subcommittee of Budget and Oversight

70th Legislature - 1989

  • Corrections

  • Country Affairs

  • Teenage Suicide, Select (Chair)

69th Legislature - 1985

  • Cultural and Historical Resources

  • Cultural and Historical Resources Subcommittee on Budget and Oversight (Vice Chair)

  • Law Enforcement

Statewide Leadership

During his time as the Statewide Chair of the Select Committee on Teenage Suicide, he helped bring legislative attention to an issue that had long been under-discussed in Texas public policy.

The committee examined contributing factors to adolescent mental health crises and worked to elevate awareness, prevention strategies, and interagency coordination across the state.

This effort placed Melton at the forefront of an early, serious legislative conversation about youth mental health in Texas.

Legislative Focus & Legacy

Bob Melton’s legislative career reflects a consistent focus on impactful issues:

  • Public safety and responsible criminal justice policy

  • Strong, functional county and local governance

  • Human services and protections for at-risk populations

  • Early leadership on youth mental health and suicide prevention

His work in the Texas House continues to inform his broader commitment to public service beyond elected office.

“Service is the rent we pay for the privilege of living on this earth.”

Shirley Chisholm