Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Robert Eckels as the new Chair of the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission. Eckels will serve on the commission until November 15, 2027. The commission is responsible for supervising and regulating all aspects of the alcoholic beverage industry in Texas.
Eckels, who resides in Spring, currently serves as an attorney of counsel at Husch Blackwell LLP and general counsel for Greffex, Inc. His previous experience includes six terms in the Texas State Legislature and serving as County Judge of Harris County. He has also participated on advisory committees to President George W. Bush and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Eckels is a member of several state bars, including those of Texas, New York, Colorado, and D.C., and is a Certified Fraud Examiner. He holds board leadership fellow status with the National Association of Corporate Directors. In addition to chairing the Texas County and District Retirement System previously, he was president of the Texas County Judges and Commissioners Association and served on boards for both that group and the Texas Association of Counties.
His other roles include chairing committees for national county organizations, participating in civic groups like the Rotary Club of Houston, leading K9s 4 Cops as president, and being involved with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo’s International Committee. Eckels earned his Bachelor of Science in Technology from the University of Houston and a Juris Doctor from South Texas College of Law.
Governor Abbott said: “Robert’s extensive experience in law, public service, and organizational leadership makes him well-suited to lead this important commission.”
