by Andy Welch
EduLege Extra Some of the timely issues that have been addressed in recent editions of EduLege Red meat is good for the political diet… The Texas Legislature has convened for a 30-day special session, and Governor Abbott — who will seek a third term in 2022 — has instructed legislators to tackle a “red meat” agenda that is designed to appeal to his conservative political base and infuriate Democrats. The 11 issues that the governor directed legislators to address include such conservative-pleasing measures as tighter election laws, border security, Critical Race Theory and abortion regulations. The governor also asked legislators to pass another hot-button issue from the regular session — banning transgender girls from competing in girls’ sports in Texas public schools. Republican supporters of the ban said it would ensure competitive fairness and promote safety, while opponents called it an unnecessary attack on a vulnerable population that deserves access to the benefits of sports like any other student. Abbott also asked legislators again to try on a measure he vetoed after the regular session adjourned — Senate Bill 1109, which required that Texas middle schools and high schools provide instruction on preventing child abuse, family violence and dating violence. The governor said he vetoed SB 1109 because parents did not have the ability to opt their children out of the instruction. Also on the governor’s agenda is adding a 13th check as a one-time payment for retired Texas teachers and other former school employees. According to the Texas Retired Teachers Association, there has not been a cost of living increase since 2013 when one was provided for members who retired before 2004. For everyone else, no COLA was granted, meaning members who have been retired for 17 years have yet to benefit from an adjustment. Most of Governor Abbott's special session agenda failed to pass during the regular session that ended on May 31 — some because of Democratic delaying tactics, and others because Republicans could not agree on a particular course. "We have unfinished business to ensure that Texas remains the most exceptional state in America," the governor said on the eve of the special session. State Rep. Eddie Rodriguez, D-Austin, accused Abbott of loading the special session with issues designed to shore up his Republican support, as he already faces two ultra-conservative challengers in the 2022 GOP Primary election. "This list isn't good government, but rather Texans being held hostage for the sake of Republican primary politics,"
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Summer 2021 | www.TSPRA.org
