AUSTIN (KXAN) — With the House floor as a backdrop inside of the Texas Capitol, State Rep. Venton Jones (D-Dallas) proposed to the first person he told he was going to run for office. Jones, asked Gregory Scott, his friend —who would become his romantic partner after more than 10 years —to marry him on the first day of Texas' 89th legislative session. Texas State Rep. Venton Jones (D-Dallas), and partner Gregory Scott get engaged on first day of 89th legislative session. (Courtesy Gregory Scott) "My immediate reaction was, 'What is happening?'" Scott said with a laugh. Jones, an openly gay representative, said he felt making this statement was important going into a new session, as legislation directed toward LGBTQ+ Texans becomes more prevalent. Lawmakers double down on LGBTQ+ policies ahead of next Texas session "Last session I sat in that very chair, and saw over 144 bills [targeting the LGBTQ community]," Scott said. "We continue to see attacks on the LGBTQ community. Being able to be in a space of authenticity is not a show, this is our life...I had so many people coming into my office saying thank you. Texas isn't a place for some, it's a place for all." As for when the couple said they plan to get married? They told KXAN's Jala Washington for now, they're basking in their fresh engagement. However, they said they do plan to wait until the 89th session is over. Jala Washington is KXAN's Multicultural Reporter, reporting on minority communities. Have a story for her? Follow her on Instagram, Facebook and X. Or send her an email: [email protected].