Please Vote "No" on SB 12!

With so many pressing issues facing the legislature during this special session, I am surprised that one of the first bills that will be considered—even before bills on the tragic floods in Central Texas earlier this month—is SB 12, which would limit the ability of locally elected officials to effectively engage in the legislative process on our community’s behalf. SB 12 would prohibit local government leaders, like school board members, from hiring professionals or joining associations who employ professionals who understand the legislative process and know the ins and outs of the Capitol. Further, the bill carves out certain taxpayer-funded groups like charter schools and law enforcement associations. Texas public schools should have the same right as charter and private schools that employ people to advocate for them at the Texas Capitol. Please vote “No” on SB 12 and preserve our community’s right to have an effective and informed voice at the Capitol.