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February 25, 2021
New bombshell testimony today shows that Governor Greg Abbott was made aware of the severity and impending disaster of the state’s electric grid days before millions of Texans lost their power for days while they endured freezing temperatures.
From Texas Democratic Party
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February 25, 2021
Montserrat Garibay has left her position as Texas AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer to join the Biden administration.
Her title:”Senior Advisor for Labor Relations, Office of Secretary of U.S Department of Education.”
From Texas AFL-CIO
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February 25, 2021
Today Texas State Senator Angela Paxton filed Senate Bill 802, the "Every Mother Matters Act,"
also known as EMMA.
“Knowledge is power,” emphasizes Senator Paxton, “and EMMA empowers women by creating a mechanism
to connect those facing unexpected pregnancies with resources for which they might not know they are
eligible.”
From Senator Angela Paxton
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February 25, 2021
The devastating power and water outages that left families across Texas struggling to survive a deadly winter storm revealed a failure of state leadership and an urgent need for action, the president of the Texas Freedom Network said today as state legislative committees held an emergency hearing on the matter.
From Texas Freedom Network
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February 25, 2021
State Representative Carl O. Sherman (D-109) announced today he will be introducing a bill in the 87th legislative session to assure that future recommendations made by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) are not disregarded when it comes to improving Texas’ energy grid.
From Representative Carl O. Sherman
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February 25, 2021
Progress Texas releases the following statement ahead of the Texas Legislature’s hearings on the statewide blackouts that occurred last week during the winter storm.
“Don’t let the inevitable political theatrics of these hearings fool you,” said Wesley Story, communications manager at Progress Texas.
From Progress Texas
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February 25, 2021
“Members of the board of ERCOT resigned for their failures and Greg Abbott should follow. He is the head of the state. He is responsible for this crisis.
From Texas Democratic Party
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February 25, 2021
State Representative Chris Turner (HD 101-Grand Prairie) released the following statement regarding the special election for Texas’ Sixth Congressional District, left vacant following the untimely passing of Congressman Ron Wright:
“Representing our community in Washington is a critically important job, and I am honored that a number of people have encouraged me to run for Congress.
From Representative Chris Turner
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February 25, 2021
Texas State Senator Jane Nelson, R-Flower Mound, filed four bills today, including legislation to safeguard personal data, support survivors of domestic violence and promote efficiency at our state agencies.
No Selling of Personal Data: SB 16 prevents state agencies from selling or disseminating an individual's personal data without written consent. Additionally, this bill clarifies that an agency may not require consent in exchange for services provided by the agency.
From Senator Jane Nelson
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February 24, 2021
The Texas AFL-CIO today congratulated the newsroom staff of the Austin American-Statesman on its decision to speak up together through the Austin NewsGuild to advocate for better working conditions and job security.
The 36-12 vote marks the third news staff to become unionized since October after more than 27 years in which no Texas newspaper newsroom had NewsGuild representation.
From Texas AFL-CIO
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February 24, 2021
Last week, Texas saw a glimpse of what the future will look like if the state does not begin to address climate change. 4.4 million Texans without power, 14 million Texans without water, and at least 80 deaths—this is an environmental crisis that will not go away. With that in mind, State Representative James Talarico (D-Round Rock) filed House Bill 2206 to create a climate action plan that will pave a path to a safer, cleaner, greener Texas.
From Representative James Talarico
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February 24, 2021
Sen. Kelly Hancock, Chairman of the Senate Business & Commerce Committee, today announced a web portal through which Texas residents and businesses may submit written comment related to tomorrow's hearing on widespread power outages.
From Senator Kelly Hancock
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February 24, 2021
From Representative Drew Darby
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February 24, 2021
In a newly published Democracy Wire piece, the team at Common Cause Texas break down how our broken power grid was a product of our broken democracy. An unregulated campaign finance system, gerrymandering, and voter suppression all contributed to causing and exacerbating this entirely avoidable tragedy.
From Common Cause Texas
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February 24, 2021
Today Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick announced his top 31 priorities for the 87th legislative session. Texas Alliance for Life is pleased that his priorities include "Senate Bill 9 -- Abortion Ban Trigger," also known as the Human Life Protection Act.
From Texas Alliance for Life
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February 23, 2021
Today, State Representative Jake Ellzey filed HB 2133, to better protect communities from sex offenders.
Although some local governments are allowed to restrict where a registered sex offender can reside,
currently, counties in Texas do not have authority to restrict the residence location of a registered sex
offender.
"Areas of rural counties in Texas can enhance their security by having a say in where a registered sex
offender lives," said Rep. Ellzey.
From Representative Jake Ellzey
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February 23, 2021
At least five Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) board members, including the chair and vice-chair, will resign tomorrow amid backlash from the state electrical grid crisis that killed fellow Texans and left millions more without power in freezing temperatures.
From Texas Democratic Party
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February 23, 2021
Texas leadership failed working families before, during and after the winter storms. The people government is supposed to serve suffered mightily and, in some cases, face a bleak future without further action.
From Texas AFL-CIO
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February 23, 2021
In the midst of compounding crises, Lt. Gov. Patrick released his 31 legislative priorities focused on political attacks that do nothing to alleviate the suffering of working families across Texas. Patrick’s priorities include attacking access to abortion, discriminating against transgender athletes, undermining public schools and state-mandated voter suppression.
From Planned Parenthood Texas Votes
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February 23, 2021
The Texas House is set to hold a hearing this Thursday to review what went wrong that led to power outages across the state during the recent winter storm. Lawmakers are expected to hear testimony from officials with the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, the Railroad Commission, and the Public Utility Commission.
From Progress Texas
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February 23, 2021
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick announced his top priorities for the 2021 Legislative Session today. The list reflects his own priorities as well as priorities from senators and Texans around the state. The Lt. Governor’s priorities are designed to protect taxpayers and the Texas economy as it rebuilds following the pandemic and to secure Texas’ future, including addressing power failures in the recent winter storm.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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February 23, 2021
State Representative Carl O. Sherman (D-109) was recently named as one of the Texas House of Representatives Deputy Democratic Whips for the 87th Legislative Session.
Known as a transformational leader in faith, government and business, Representative Sherman is serving his second term in the Texas House of Representatives.
From Representative Carl O. Sherman
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February 23, 2021
Texas Campaign for the Environment (TCE) is mobilizing supporters to call on Texas state leaders to accept accountability and take action to prevent disasters like the one that affected millions of Texans last week.
From Texas Campaign for the Environment
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February 23, 2021
Last week, State Representative Mary E. González was appointed as Chair of
the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Articles I, IV, and V by Chairman Greg Bonnen.
Articles I, IV, and V oversee General Government, the Judiciary, and Public Safety and Criminal
Justice.
From Representative Mary E. Gonzalez
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February 23, 2021
Today, February 23, 2021, Representative Garnet F. Coleman (D-Houston) filed HB 2069 to address a wide range of issues impacting the LGBTQ community. Rep. Coleman has successfully pushed policies to become law including protections for sexual preference in the James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Act, and suicide prevention training in schools.
From Representative Garnet F. Coleman
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February 22, 2021
Today, the Texas Democratic Party unveiled our 2020 post-election data analysis delving into what happened in the 2020 election: the trends, numbers, and data behind the results in Texas.
From Texas Democratic Party
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February 22, 2021
— Chairman Richard Peña Raymond (D-Laredo) today released the following statement on
filing H.B. 2034, requiring those appointed to the Board of Directors for the Electric Reliability Council
of Texas (ERCOT) to be current state residents:
"As the recent disaster laid bare, the oversight and operation of our electrical grid is of utmost importance.
From Representative Richard Pena Raymond
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February 22, 2021
On Thursday, February 25th, the Texas House State Affairs and Energy Resources Committees will convene a joint hearing to review the factors that led to the state blackout that affected millions of Texans across the state.
From Boot Texas Republicans PAC
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February 22, 2021
Today, a bombshell report from the Dallas Morning News showed that Indicted Texas Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton pulled a Ted Cruz and also abandoned the state of Texas during the crisis that hit our state last week.
From Texas Democratic Party
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February 22, 2021
The ongoing weather and power failures have brought to light tremendous shortcomings in the state that must be addressed and improved. The supposed rotating power outages imposed by the Electric Reliability Council Of Texas (ERCOT) and the subsequent failure of our electrical grid should have been preventable.
From Representative Sergio Munoz, Jr.
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February 18, 2021
Today, Senator Joan Huffman, Chairwoman of the Senate Jurisprudence Committee announced an upcoming hearing to examine the law and jurisprudence governing the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) and the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC). The hearing will study whether additional jurisprudential safeguards, such as statutes or administrative provisions, could have prevented the ongoing public utility crisis.
From Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa
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February 18, 2021
As millions of Texans are without power and water due to continuing severe weather conditions, the League of Women Voters of Texas calls on the Texas Legislature, the Public Utility Commission of Texas, and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) network to take responsibility for this failure of our independent power grid and develop plans and systems to prevent future disasters like this one.
From League of Women Voters of Texas
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February 18, 2021
State Rep. Todd Hunter will be among the first legislators to directly question operators of the state power grid during a joint legislative hearing on electric reliability and blackouts.
From Todd Hunter Campaign
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February 18, 2021
State Rep. Steve Allison of San Antonio is drafting two bills concerning the power crisis that has caused prolonged suffering for residents of Bexar County and millions of other Texans.
From Steve Allison Campaign
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February 18, 2021
Chairwoman Senator Joan Huffman (R-Houston) announced today that the Senate Committee on
Jurisprudence will hold a hearing to examine the law and jurisprudence governing the Electric Reliability
Council of Texas (ERCOT) and the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC). Texas law charges the PUC
with the duty to oversee ERCOT, and the hearing will study whether additional jurisprudential safeguards--such
as statutes or administrative provisions--could have prevented the ongoing public utility crisis.
From Senator Joan Huffman
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February 18, 2021
Statement on action by RRC commissioners extending assistance to Texans during the winter storm:
The safety and protection of Texas residents is of utmost importance to the RRC.
From Railroad Commission of Texas
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February 18, 2021
“While it appears the significant mismatch in energy supply and demand during this cold snap was caused by a variety of factors, various narratives have begun to surface that must be addressed. Texas residents deserve to know the root causes of their power outages and how they can be prevented in the future,” the Members wrote in the letter.
From Representative Tony Gonzales
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February 18, 2021
As the colder temperatures continue across the state, Texas Gas Service continues to encourage residents and businesses to conserve their energy usage. The demand for natural gas continues to outpace supply, and it is going to take time for our suppliers to get their natural gas wells back on-line.
From Texas Gas Service
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February 18, 2021
Today, Representatives Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) and Marc Veasey (TX-33) of the Energy and Commerce Committee sent a letter to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in response to the catastrophic power failures that have left millions freezing in the dark and left the state of Texas to declare a federal emergency across all 254 counties.
From Representative Lizzie Fletcher
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February 17, 2021
“Crisis after crisis, Greg Abbott has failed and passed off blame to somebody else. Texas is in dire straits. Texans are dying. Homes are being destroyed, people are cold and hungry, and we have no idea when things will begin to return to normal because our state Government continues to fail.
From Texas Democratic Party
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February 17, 2021
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today issued the following statement on the passing of the pioneering conservative radio talk show host, New York Times best-selling author, and Presidential Medal of Freedom winner, Rush Limbaugh:
“Today, Americans’ hearts are heavy as we bid farewell to Rush Limbaugh. Rush was a patriot and a lion-hearted defender of freedom.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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February 17, 2021
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued the following statement today following the news of the passing of radio legend, Rush Limbaugh:
“I mourn the loss of my friend of 33 years, Rush Limbaugh. We started out together in 1988, he with a new radio show, and me with a new radio station.
From Dan Patrick Campaign
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February 17, 2021
Today Representative Sam Harless is calling for action from ERCOT and its Board of Directors. This current weather
situation demonstrates an appalling lack of leadership and preparation for what should not have been a surprise
cold weather event.
From Representative Sam Harless
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February 17, 2021
On Tuesday, without evidence or any data-driven facts, Greg Abbott told Fox News the push for more renewable energy and adoption of the Green New Deal is what led to historic statewide blackouts that has left millions of homes still without power and 21 people dead.
From Texas Democratic Party
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February 17, 2021
AARP Texas State Director Tina Tran issued the following statement in response to the millions of Americans without power in the state of Texas due to winter storm Uri:
“AARP Texas is very concerned about its members and older adults during this extreme cold weather emergency.
From AARP
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February 17, 2021
A severe winter storm has crippled the state of Texas and threatened the lives of its citizens. 4.4 million Texans are currently without power with no end in sight. Earlier today, Rep. Talarico (D - Round Rock) became one of the first state lawmakers to demand a full investigation into the Texas power blackouts.
From Representative James Talarico
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February 16, 2021
House District 27, I pray that in these dangerous and tumultuous times, you and your families are safe and warm. It is important that information that is being shared is accurate and valid. Communications have been strained across the state because of the inability to communicate due to that lack of power.
From Representative Ron Reynolds
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February 16, 2021
Speaker Dade Phelan (R-Beaumont) today requested that the House State Affairs and Energy Resources Committees hold a joint hearing to review the factors that led to megawatts of electric generation being dropped off the ERCOT system and the subsequent statewide blackouts that affected millions of Texans across the state.
From Speaker of the House
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February 16, 2021
Much like their “hands-off, do-nothing” approach to the COVID-19 pandemic, experts say Greg Abbott and Texas Republicans are to blame for failing to keep millions of Texas households warm and safe during a deadly wave of icy cold conditions to hit the Lone Star State.
From Texas Democratic Party
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February 16, 2021
As Texas endures a harsh winter storm, the RRC is actively engaged in daily calls with other state agencies, oil and gas producers, pipeline systems, and utilities throughout the state's energy and electricity supply chain.
From Railroad Commission of Texas
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February 16, 2021
Like much of the country, Texas is experiencing unusually bone-chilling temperatures as a polar vortex brought freezing rain that caused road closures across the state. Unlike many of the other states in the country, Texas, led by Republican Governor Greg Abbott, didn’t adequately prepare despite knowing these temperatures would lead to unusual cold and power outages across the state.
From Texas Democratic Party
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February 9, 2021
From Representative John Raney
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February 9, 2021
As of this month, Austin 911 operators have begun testing a fourth triage question option, “Mental Health Services,” to the 911 answering script. The new greeting is “Austin 9-1-1, do you need Police, Fire, EMS, or Mental Health Services?”
From Austin City Council
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February 9, 2021
Today, Seditious Texas Republican Ted Cruz yet again put his subservience to Trump over defending our Constitution by voting against a bipartisan effort to bring the 2nd impeachment trial of Donald Trump to the floor of the US Senate.
From Texas Democratic Party
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February 9, 2021
Harris County Commissioners Court approved additional spending of $2.6 million to speed rent relief to residents who have lost jobs due to the COVID-19 event. The program seeks the involvement of Harris County property landlords in support of the eviction prevention measures.
From Harris County Commissioners Court
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February 9, 2021
Texans for Healthcare Access – a diverse coalition of organizations representing consumers, businesses and healthcare stakeholders – today announced that Texas Doctors for Social Responsibility has joined the coalition in its efforts to repeal outdated, unnecessary regulations that are preventing Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) from providing more access and more options to Texas patients.
From Texans For Healthcare Access
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February 9, 2021
A group of arts education advocates today announced the formation of a statewide advocacy and grassroots campaign – the Texas Arts Education Campaign (TAEC) txartsed.org.
TAEC will educate Texas voters and lawmakers on the importance of fine arts (music, art, theatre, dance) in preparing K-12 students.
From Texas Arts Education Campaign
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February 8, 2021
The Speaker of the House, Dade Phelan (R-Beaumont), announced committee assignments last Thursday, February 4th. State Representative Hugh D. Shine (R-Temple) was named to serve on the House Committee on Ways & Means, and will continue to serve as a member of the Business & Industry Committee.
From Representative Hugh D. Shine
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February 8, 2021
On Tuesday, Feb. 9, Austin City Council will discuss ballot items for a special municipal election, including a proposed charter amendment that could allow for a stronger and more independent Office of Police Oversight.
“If we want police accountability, then we need our police oversight office to be as independent as possible,” said Austin City Council Member Greg Casar.
From Austin City Council
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February 8, 2021
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today issued the following statement on the passing of Rep. Ron Wright (R-Texas):
“Heidi and I are saddened to hear of Congressman Wright’s passing. Ron was not only a dedicated public servant, a principled conservative, and a proud Texan, he was also a loving father and grandfather.
From Senator Ted Cruz
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February 8, 2021
Upon learning of the passing of U.S. Congressman Ron Wright, State Representative Chris Turner released the following statement:
“Lisa and I are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Congressman Ron Wright.
From Representative Chris Turner
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February 8, 2021
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following the passing of Texas Congressman Ron Wright, R-Arlington:
"Jan and I are very sad to learn of the passing of Congressman Ron Wright. Ron was a dedicated Christian, a committed conservative and a great Texan.
From Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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February 8, 2021
U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) released the following statement on the reported death of U.S. Representative Ron Wright (TX-06):
“Ron was a passionate public servant and a strong advocate for Texas values, his neighbors in North Texas, and constituents across Texas’ 6th District,” said Sen. Cornyn.
From Senator John Cornyn
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February 8, 2021
Sen. Kelly Hancock today issued the following statement on the life and service of United States Congressman Ron Wright:
"Our hearts are heavy as we process the news of Congressman Wright's passing. Ron was a good friend for many years, a dedicated statesman, and a servant-hearted leader who never failed to tell it to you straight.
From Senator Kelly Hancock
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February 3, 2021
As members of the public who are most affected by our dysfunctional border security system, we, South
Texas landowners, land managers, and owners of agricultural operations, strongly urge the Biden
Administration to consider unintended consequences in pursuing significant changes to, or cessation of,
the previous administration’s Migrant Protection Procedures (MPP), otherwise known as the “Remain in
Mexico” policy.
From South Texans’ Property Rights Association
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February 3, 2021
Today, Planned Parenthood affiliates filed an emergency lawsuit to stop Gov. Greg Abbott from blocking 8,000 Texans with low incomes from receiving life-saving health care from the provider they know and trust.
From Planned Parenthood Texas Votes
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February 3, 2021
Texas Health and Human Services today announces it is receiving more than $180,000 in funding toward implementing a new national three-digit dialing code, 988, for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
From Texas Health and Human Services Commission
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February 3, 2021
State Representative Jacey Jetton announces a bill to make healthcare coverage more affordable for Texas families. House Bill 1369 will allow more people to enter into or form healthcare cost-sharing groups.
From Representative Jacey Jetton
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February 2, 2021
“On August 3, 2019, El Paso was the target of a domestic terrorist. Racist and hateful public discourse radicalized a man who committed one of the deadliest mass shootings in Texas history, one that left twenty-three innocent people dead and dozens more injured. It is a day we will always remember. It is a day that still requires action from our state to properly heal.
From Senator Cesar J. Blanco
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February 2, 2021
Today, Common Cause Texas is releasing a new report -- Defending Democracy: Election Protection 2020 and Beyond.
The report details:
• The common problems encountered by voters in 2020
• Inspiring stories of volunteers stepping up in extraordinary ways to assist Texans who ran into problems at the polls
From Common Cause Texas
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February 2, 2021
Representative Michelle Beckley has filed HB 1519: Relating to the delivery of alcoholic beverages from an
alcoholic beverage retailer to an ultimate consumer. This bill will allow holders of package store permits, wine
only package store permits, mixed beverage permits, and consumer delivery permits to deliver alcoholic
beverages (within their permits) to a consumer in any destination in Texas.
From Representative Michelle Beckley
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February 2, 2021
More than 30 trustees, administrators, and transportation directors for school districts across Texas joined with environmental and health advocates in a letter to Governor Abbott calling for funding for electric school buses.
From Environment Texas
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February 2, 2021
Gov. Abbott used his State of the State address tonight to make it clear that he is more interested in scoring political points by touting his continued attacks on abortion access than dealing with the public health crisis at-hand.
From Planned Parenthood Texas Votes
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February 2, 2021
State Representative Jacey Jetton announces a bill to allow property owners' associations to hold their annual member meetings virtually. House Bill 1467 gives communities greater flexibility while continuing to require transparency.
“In light of COVID-19, it has become necessary for communities to meet virtually,” Jetton said.
From Representative Jacey Jetton
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February 2, 2021
If Gov. Abbott thinks that House Bill 3 solved the school finance and teacher pay problem in Texas, he is sadly mistaken. House Bill 3 was a good start, but the governor and the Legislature must do more.
From Texas State Teachers Association
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February 2, 2021
Tonight, in his biennial address to outline priorities for the Legislative Session, Governor Greg Abbott announced that increasing access to broadband services would be an Emergency Item. Broadband - which the Governor noted is no longer a luxury, but an essential tool - is one of five Emergency Items that will be eligible for the Legislature's consideration within the first sixty days of the 87th Legislative Session.
From Representative Trent Ashby
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February 2, 2021
Texans for Lawsuit Reform (TLR) today issued the following statement regarding Gov. Greg Abbott’s 2021 State of the State Speech:
“Gov. Abbott’s State of the State address charts a clear course for economic and job growth as our state works to recover from the pandemic.
From Texans for Lawsuit Reform
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February 2, 2021
Texas AFL-CIO President Rick Levy and Secretary-Treasurer Montserrat Garibay posted this comment on Gov. Greg Abbott’s State of the State speech:
“Filled with misplaced priorities, misguided pandering and misleading descriptions of current-day Texas viewed through ideological blinders, Greg Abbott’s vision for Texas has a big hole in its heart, shortchanging, ignoring or even attacking the desire of working families for a fair shot at better lives.
From Texas AFL-CIO
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February 2, 2021
The Alliance for Securing and Strengthening the Economy in Texas (ASSET), a coalition of business groups representing millions of Texas employers, released the following statement after Governor Greg Abbott’s 2021 State of the State address:
"Governor Abbott is leading with an agenda that will foster economic growth and allow opportunities for individual Texans to flourish.
From Alliance for Securing and Strengthening the Economy in Texas
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February 2, 2021
During Monday’s State of the State Address, Gov. Abbott announced a policy he called, “civil liability protections“, which would exempt corporations from any liability and give consumers no recourse against bad acting companies that refuse to comply with basic public health orders.
From TexPIRG
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February 2, 2021
Over 3.8 million Texans have filed for unemployment since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic led to families all across the state experiencing the highest eviction rate in recorded history.
From Texas Democratic Party
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February 2, 2021
Progress Texas releases the following statement ahead of Gov. Greg Abbott’s State of the State address.
“Under Gov. Greg Abbott’s watch, the state of the state is not strong,” said Ed Espinoza, executive director at Progress Texas.
From Progress Texas
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February 2, 2021
“The state of the state is frail with Governor Abbott at the helm. At every stage of the pandemic from safety measures to vaccine distributions, Abbott refuses to act in the interest of the people who live and work in Texas.
From Boot Texas Republicans PAC
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February 1, 2021
Today Texas State Senator Roland Gutierrez (D-Bexar) filed Senate Bill 522 to officially move Sul Ross State University and its associated Rio Grande Colleges from the Texas State University System to the Texas A&M University System.
Gutierrez stated, “The negative direction of Sul Ross State University is a regional problem affecting more than a dozen West Texas counties.
From Senator Roland Gutierrez
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February 1, 2021
Pat Heintzelman, president of the Texas Faculty Association, released the following statement:
The Texas Faculty Association is outraged that Collin College has fired two of its valued faculty members for exercising their First Amendment rights during a health emergency.
From Texas Faculty Association
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February 1, 2021
Today, The New York Times reported that Attorney General Ken Paxton’s failed lawsuit against the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the states of Georgia, Michigan and Wisconsin was written by a legal team tied to Donald Trump’s campaign.
From Representative Chris Turner
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February 1, 2021
– Senator Bettencourt (R-Houston) filed SB 532, known as Caitlynnes bill, to prohibit magistrates
from releasing a defendant on a PR bond for offenses committed while out on an existing PR bond, or on a
felony offense when two or more other felony charges are pending against the defendant.
From Senator Paul Bettencourt
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February 1, 2021
The Hance Scarborough Law Firm is pleased to announce
former Congressman Pete Olson from Texas has joined the firm, effective February 1, 2021.
From Hance Scarborough, LLP
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February 1, 2021
Today, State Representative Ana Hernandez (HD 143 - Houston) and State Representative Armando Martinez (HD 39 - Weslaco), on behalf of the Mexican American Legislative Caucus, released the 2021 Latino State of the State Address highlighting MALC’s legislative priorities for the Texas 87th Legislative Session.
From Mexican American Legislative Caucus
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February 1, 2021
Today, the Texas Democratic Party announced that Texas Democrats from all walks of life and across our entire great state will deliver the Democratic response to Governor Abbott’s “State of the State” set to air this evening.
From Texas Democratic Party
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February 1, 2021
Texans for Lawsuit Reform PAC (TLRPAC) today endorsed David Spiller for election in House District 68, which includes Childress, Collingsworth, Cooke, Cottle, Crosby, Dickens, Fisher, Floyd, Garza, Hall, Hardeman, Haskell, Jack, Kent, King, Montague, Motley, Stonewall, Throckmorton, Wheeler, Wilbarger and Young counties.
From Texans for Lawsuit Reform PAC
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February 1, 2021
In an effort to reduce the amount of natural gas that oil producers light on fire and intentionally release into the atmosphere, Texas State Representative Vikki Goodwin (D-Austin) filed HB 1494 today, a bill that would levy a 25% tax on gas that is vented or flared as part of the oil extraction process.
From Representative Vikki Goodwin
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February 1, 2021
A new report released today by the Texas Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy
highlights the health benefits and potential state budget savings for the Texas Legislature to include
contraception coverage in the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Texas is one of just two
states in the nation that does not cover contraception in CHIP for purposes of pregnancy
prevention.
From Texas Campaign for Teen Pregnancy
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February 1, 2021
“This is an important move for survivors of violence and harm in our community, and an important step for equal justice,” said Austin City Council Member Greg Casar. “It’s in the best interest of justice when forensic evidence departments are run by scientists.
From Austin City Council
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February 1, 2021
State Representative Brooks Landgraf (R-Odessa) sent a letter to Governor Greg Abbott Monday advocating for Texas educators to be classified as “frontline workers” for COVID-19 vaccination purposes. This would allow many teachers who want to vaccine to be able to receive it sooner.
From Representative Brooks Landgraf
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January 29, 2021
Among Scenic Texas’ priorities are passing legislation protecting dark skies, supporting local control of city ordinances, upholding billboard standards, restoring natural beauty along Texas highways, and designating certain highways as scenic highways to protect them from visual decline.
From Scenic Texas
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January 29, 2021
The United Labor Legislative Committee has endorsed a bill that would presume nurses who contract COVID-19 did so on the job so they are eligible to receive Workers’ Compensation benefits.
The identical measures are HB 396 by Rep. Joe Moody, D-El Paso, and SB 433 by Sen. Judith Zaffirini, D-Laredo (also filed as SB 439 by Sen. César Blanco, D-El Paso).
From Texas AFL-CIO
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January 29, 2021
Today, a new investigative report in the Houston Chronicle shows, despite Greg Abbott’s dirty data and continued spin about the state of Texas’ COVID-19 vaccine distribution, the state actually ranks near the bottom of all states in terms of vaccine distribution per capita.
From Texas Democratic Party
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January 28, 2021
The Texas Lyceum’s annual poll, published today, unearthed new insights about the statewide impact of the coronavirus pandemic. The 2021 poll returned the most negative evaluations of Texas’ and the nation’s economies since the Great Recession of 2008, and found that while 88 percent of Texans expressed at least some concern about the raging pandemic, only 45 percent of adults say that they will get a COVID-19 vaccine as soon as it becomes available to them.
From The Texas Lyceum
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January 28, 2021
To protect all Texans, and in response to the outrageous number of serious crimes committed by
violent offenders out on bond, Senator Joan Huffman (R-Houston) announced today that she is filling
comprehensive legislation to reform Texas' bail bonds system.
From Senator Joan Huffman
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January 28, 2021
Texas Democratic Party Communications Director Abhi Rahman issued the following statement:
“Greg Abbott isn't being honest with working Texans. The Biden Administration is actually projected to create energy jobs. In fact, global investment firms have projected the Biden Administration to be a ‘positive catalyst’ for the energy industry in Texas.
From Texas Democratic Party
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January 28, 2021
State Representative Brooks Landgraf (R-Odessa) joined Governor Greg Abbott in Odessa at a roundtable discussion and press conference announcing executive action on the state level to prevent the federal government from harming the oil and gas industry in Texas.
From Representative Brooks Landgraf
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January 28, 2021
Yesterday, in a scathing video conference hosted by the Truman Center for National Policy, former Homeland Security Secretaries from both parties blasted John Cornyn for putting politics over our country’s safety and endangering Americans by delaying the confirmation 0f our next Homeland Security Secretary, Alejandro Mayorkas.
From Texas Democratic Party
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January 28, 2021
The Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) today authorized awards for $44.5 million in Flood Mitigation Assistance grants. The grants are funded through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and will be used to mitigate flood damages and prevent future losses.
From Texas Water Development Board
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January 28, 2021
In “Losing Interest: Disparate Interest Rates Penalize Texas Taxpayers,” the Foundation assesses the unequal assessment of interest on taxes. Under Texas law, a taxpayer determined by the state to owe past-due tax is charged interest at a rate of 4.25%, or the prime rate plus 1% (plus a 10% penalty); however, if the state owes a refund to a taxpayer, it only pays interest at 0.511% -- eight times less than what the state makes taxpayers pay.
From Texas Taxpayers and Research Association
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January 28, 2021
Today, Texas Rural Funders released Broadband Stories from Rural Texas, a report that examines the impact of rural Texans’ lack of broadband access and how local communities are responding to the challenges they face.
From Texas Rural Funders
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January 28, 2021
More than 3,000 U.S. nursing homes last month had a shortage of nurses, aides or doctors, the nadir for a crippling problem that started last May. At any given time throughout most of 2020, more than 200,000 Americans resided in nursing homes that admit they were suffering through staff shortages.
From PIRG Consumer Watchdog
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January 28, 2021
Today on Fox News’ America’s Newsroom, U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) discussed U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry’s suggestion that those working in traditional energy jobs who may be at risk of losing their employment due to the Biden Administration’s energy policies can simply find jobs manufacturing solar panels.
From Senator John Cornyn
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January 28, 2021
Senator José Menéndez filed Senate Bill 398 which provides protections for homeowners by requiring sellers of distributed renewable generation resources to provide key disclosures of information to their customers. The bill will ensure that a municipality cannot restrict installation of solar generation sources that are more restrictive than a property owners association guidelines. Thus, giving homeowners greater property rights.
From Senator Jose Menende
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January 28, 2021
The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board is pleased to announce that Texas OnCourse, a statewide initiative to improve college and career readiness, has transferred from The University of Texas at Austin to the Coordinating Board as it launches its first postsecondary training offerings.
From Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
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January 28, 2021
State Representative Brooks Landgraf (R-Odessa) is throwing his full support behind House Bill 1280, a pro-life bill he co-authored to prohibit abortion procedures in Texas.
“As a father who heard his daughter’s heartbeat early during my wife’s pregnancy, I am proud to co-author this landmark bill,” Landgraf said.
From Representative Brooks Landgraf
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January 27, 2021
“American agriculture has been, and will continue to be, part of the climate solution. Texas farmers and ranchers are deeply committed to caring for the soil, water and resources that provide our country’s bountiful food, fiber and fuel.
From Texas Farm Bureau
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January 27, 2021
Earlier this week, in a bombshell report by the Texas Tribune, it was revealed that internet and phone services for rural Texans have been threatened because the state of Texas recently cut subsidies that help providers offer phone and internet services in sparsely populated areas.
From Texas Democratic Party
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January 27, 2021
John H. Bucy III (D-Austin), State Representative for House District 136, today filed H.J.R. 79 and H.B. 1420 to update the Surviving Spouse Homestead Exemption to include the surviving spouse of a service member who is killed or fatally injured in an incident directly related to the member’s military service while serving on active duty.
From Representative John Bucy III
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January 27, 2021
Today, the Texas Association of Business released Priorities for Prosperity, a roadmap that drives job creation, strengthens our workforce, protects employers’ rights, grows the digital landscape, and expands our transportation infrastructure.
From Texas Association of Business
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January 27, 2021
John Berry of Jacksboro and former Cooke County Judge Jason Brinkley, who were part of a virtual 3-way tie for 2nd place in Saturday’s House District 68 Special Election, have joined together to endorse David Spiller to represent this 22-county district in Austin.
From David Spiller Campaign
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January 27, 2021
Senator César J. Blanco (El Paso) filed eight senate bills to help Texas bounce back from COVID-19 stronger and more prepared.
The bills filed by Senator Blanco are:
1. SB 434- Expands telehealth and telemedicine services to increase access to healthcare.
2. SB 435- Requires Texas to develop a pandemic playbook so we are better prepared for future pandemics.
3. SB 436- Creates protections for patients with pre-existing health conditions, including any underlying health conditions caused by COVID-19.
From Senator Cesar J. Blanco
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January 27, 2021
State Representative Jessica González (D-104) filed legislation that would repeal the current exemption of severance tax for flared and vented gas that is produced in Texas, a measure that would produce more tax revenue and discourage excess pollution.
From Representative Jessica Gonzalez
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January 27, 2021
The Texas Independent Producers & Royalty Owners Association (TIPRO) today released the following statement in response to the Biden Administration's order issued Wednesday that will halt leasing for fossil fuel production on federal lands and waters, action by the executive branch which will unquestionably jeopardize American jobs and severely hinder domestic development of oil and natural gas.
From Texas Independent Producers & Royalty Owners Association
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January 27, 2021
KK125 Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation announced today that Julia Patterson, 18, an epilepsy survivor and over three-year patient of medical marijuana, will serve the nonprofit organization as one of the youngest registered lobbyists in Texas for the 2021 legislative session, advocating for expansion of Texas’ Compassionate Use Program (CUP), insurance coverage of fertility preservation services for young adult cancer patients, and the freedom to share information related to “off-label” medication use.
From KK125 Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation
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January 27, 2021
Texas State Senator José Menéndez and Representative Lyle Larson have introduced legislation in the upcoming 87th legislative session that would allow voters to decide between observing standard time or observing daylight savings time year round.
From Senator Jose Menendez
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January 27, 2021
Representative Carl Sherman, is proud to highlight a piece of legislation he has filed for the 87th Legislative Session, HB 420, the Maternity Mortality Taskforce Bill.
The proposed legislation will form a taskforce that will study maternal mortality rates for pregnant African American women, the related disparities in maternal care, and will develop and provide recommendations on improving the maternal health outcomes among Black women.
From Representative Carl Sherman
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January 26, 2021
Today, Texas Democratic Party Chair Gilberto Hinojosa issued a statement in regards to today’s announcement that Trump-appointed U.S. District Judge Drew Tipton has granted the State of Texas a temporary restraining order against President Biden’s 100-day moratorium on deportations:
From Texas Democratic Party
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January 26, 2021
Texas AFL-CIO President Rick Levy and Secretary-Treasurer Montserrat Garibay today stood with immigration advocates, opposing a lawsuit filed by the State of Texas attempting to overturn President Joe Biden’s suspension of a broken Trump-era deportation machinery.
From Texas AFL-CIO
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January 26, 2021
State Representative Sheryl Cole (D-Austin) and State Senator Sarah Eckhardt (D-Austin) just filed “Rosie’s Law” (HB 1362) and (SB 448), to expand insurance coverage of abortion for Texans enrolled in the state’s Medicaid program and repeal the 2017 ban on private insurance coverage of abortion.
From Lilith Fund
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January 26, 2021
The Texas Lyceum will swear in Houston energy executive Castlen Kennedy as its 2021 president and welcome 16 new directors from across Texas during its annual Investiture ceremony on January 28 in Austin, Texas. The outgoing president - San Antonio’s Laura Dixon - will move into the role of chair and Dallas public affairs executive and civic strategist Sarah Jackson will be formally named president-elect for 2022.
From The Texas Lyceum
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January 26, 2021
AARP Texas, the leading organization for Texans age 50+, has announced priority issues that it seeks to advance during the 2021 legislative session.
AARP Texas Director Tina Tran said the priorities include achievable bipartisan actions needed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and to prepare for Texas’ future.
From AARP Texas
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January 25, 2021
Today, Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa, Vice Chair of the Senate Special Committee on Redistricting (Committee) participated in the first regional hearing held by the Committee this legislative session. In a first for the Texas Senate, these regional hearings will allow members of the public to testify before the Committee via Zoom videoconference.
From Senator Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa
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January 25, 2021
As the Legislative Session gets underway in Austin this month, the state’s fastest-growing school districts call on state lawmakers to protect Texas’ historic investments in public schools and address chronically low state investment in fast-growth school facilities funding.
From Fast Growth School Coalition
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January 25, 2021
“Today we filed legislation that will make our education system stronger by focusing on students and their well-being, along with bills that will ensure justice and equality for all Texans. Throughout the duration of COVID-19, we have witnessed rising mental health concerns
From Senator Jose Menendez
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January 25, 2021
Today, State Senator Kelly Hancock (R-Tarrant County) and State Representative Jeff Leach (R- Collin County) respectively filed SJR 27 and HJR 72, the “Texas Essential Church Act.” The proposal to amend the Texas Constitution, in sum, will prohibit any elected official or any political subdivision of the state from limiting or prohibiting religious services or observances.
From Jeff Leach Campaign
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January 25, 2021
This week, Austin City Council has the opportunity to use reinvestment funds to purchase two hotels to house people experiencing homelessness, changing the lives of hundreds of Austinites. Normally, the City’s goal is 100 permanent supportive housing units per year, and now in the first month of 2020, this will bring forward nearly 150 permanent supportive housing units in just one Council meeting.
From Austin City Council
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January 25, 2021
John Vasquez, a former municipal judge, community advocate and San Antonio native, will serve as the AARP Texas volunteer state president.
Vasquez’ two-year appointment is announced by AARP Texas Director Tina Tran.
From AARP Texas
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January 25, 2021
Mayes Media Group, ranked as one of the top public relations, advertising and political consulting firms in North Texas, has launched a new division, MMG-Edu, to help both large and small school districts pass the school bond and TRE referendums their students, teachers and administrators rely on to succeed.
From Mayes Media Group
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January 25, 2021
The Young Conservatives of Texas (YCT) are proud to announce the release of our legislative agenda for the 87th Legislative Session. The bi-annual legislative agenda is intended to guide Texas legislators in support of legislation that promotes effective and limited government.
From Young Conservatives of Texas
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 Copyright February 26, 2021, Harvey Kronberg, www.quorumreport.com, All rights are reserved
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