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Abel Herrero Voting Record & Scorecard | FoundersPAC

TX Representative

District: 34Democrat

2023 Alignment:

30.19%

Lifetime Ratings by Policy Category

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Title

Lawmaker Position

Protecting Taxpayers and Promoting Student Success by Ensuring School Funding is Directed to Teachers Instead of Wasteful Administration.

The Harrison and Leo-Wilson amendment #1 to a public school funding bill. This amendment provides that a school district is only eligible to receive the basic allotment funding if more than 50% of the district's maintenance and operations expenditures the previous school year were spent on salaries and benefits for full-time teachers. Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under School and Property Taxation Section 93: "Administrative Bloat is Not Tranformative". "We call on Texas school administrators to deliver more education for our dollars, instead of nonstop lobbying for more dollars for education. At a minimum, 65% of revenue should be spent in the classroom. We oppose the underhanded strategy of making cuts to visible frontline teaching positions instead of administrators and overhead."
Against FoundersPAC

Reducing Employment Barriers and Expanding Competition through an Alternative Licensing Pathway for Electricians.

This bill creates an additional alternative pathway for electricians to obtain an occupational license. Under the bill, an aspiring electrician may complete a career and technology education program as opposed to the 4,000 hours of training otherwise required. These programs can be offered by public or private schools and colleges and universities. Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Markets and Regulation Section 39: "Licensing". "We call upon the Texas Legislature to review all Texas Department of Licenses and Regulations (TDLR), business/professional licensing programs, and associated licensing for the purpose of abolishing or removing as many as reasonably possible and repealing those laws, rules, and regulations."
With FoundersPAC

Growing Government Dependency and Wealth Redistribution through the Creation of a New "Free" Pre-K and Childcare Program Delivered through Community Providers.

This bill creates the "Prekindergarten Community-Based Child-Care Partnership Grant Program" to provide grants to school districts for pre-K and childcare services delivered through community providers. Oppose is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Opposition to Market-Distorting Tax and Fiscal Subsidies Section 95: "Bailouts and Subsidies". "We encourage government to divest its ownership of all businesses that should be run in the private sector. We oppose all bailouts of and subsidies to domestic and foreign government entities, states, and for all businesses, public and private."
Against FoundersPAC

Expanding Government Power to Shutdown Competition within the Optometry Industry.

This bill primarily targets a business model within the optometry industry which has been deployed by Visionworks of America, which is owned by an insurance company called Vision Services Plan (VSP) Insurance Co. The bill prevents VSP from incentivizing its enrollees to utilize the optometry company it owns (Visionworks) through the offering of discounts or other value-added benefits. Other optometry companies have alleged that since VSP owns its own optometry company and can "steer patients" it is provided an unfair competitive advantage in the industry. Oppose is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Markets and Regulation Section 41: "Reduce Business Regulations". "We believe that .. businesses should be minimally regulated at all levels".
Against FoundersPAC

Protecting Farmers from Government Overreach by Preventing Local Governments from Imposing Additional Regulations on the Agricultural Industry.

The bill prevents localities from imposing additional regulations on farmers and ranchers engaging in agricultural operations. Under the bill, the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service is directed to develop a list of "generally accepted agricultural practices" that do not pose a threat to public health, which cities also may not prohibit or restrict. Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Markets and Regulation Section 38: "Municipal Preemption". "We encourage the Legislature to preempt local government efforts to interfere with the State’s sovereignty over business, employees, and property rights. This includes but is not limited to burdensome regulations on short-term rentals, bags, sick leave, trees, and employee criminal screening."
With FoundersPAC

Strengthening Self-Defense and Second Amendment Rights by Limiting School "Gun-Free Zones" to Only School-Owned Property.

This bill amends the existing state law which prohibits firearms on school grounds or buildings when a school-sponsored activity is taking place. Under this bill, the "gun free zone" only applies to the actual premises owned by a school (not off-campus locations). Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Citizen Rights Section 32: "The Right to Keep and Bear Arms". "State and Federal Legislatures shall: Recognize the right of License to Carry holders to carry anywhere off-duty or retired law enforcement can carry."
With FoundersPAC

Reducing Employment Barriers and Expanding Competition Through an Alternative Licensing Pathway for HVAC Technicians.

This bill amends the licensing requirements for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) technicians by establishing an alternative pathway to become licensed. The bill recognizes completion of a career and technology education program at a public school or institution of higher education as satisfying the certification training program requirements for licensure. The bill also provides for a waiver of any renewal fee and reduction in the number of required continuing education hours for technicians who provide instruction in a career and technology education program. Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Markets and Regulation Section 39: "Licensing". "We call upon the Texas Legislature to review all Texas Department of Licenses and Regulations (TDLR), business/professional licensing programs, and associated licensing for the purpose of abolishing or removing as many as reasonably possible and repealing those laws, rules, and regulations."
Against FoundersPAC

Blocking School Choice by Removing the Provision Creating Educational Savings Accounts from the Education Bill.

The Raney amendment #2 to the education omnibus bill. This amendment removes the school choice provision from the bill which provides voucher-like educational savings accounts (ESAs). Each qualifying student would receive an ESA with $10,500 towards private or parochial school tuition. Oppose is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Parents' Rights Section 101: "School Choice". "Texas families shall be empowered to choose from public, private, charter, or homeschool options for their children’s education, and the funding shall follow the student without strings attached. We also support tax credits and exemptions for education and choice within the public school system."
Against FoundersPAC

Blocking School Choice by Prohibiting Any Appropriations within the Budget for School Choice Programs.

The Herrero amendment #45 to the appropriations bill. This amendment prohibits any funds in the bill from being used for school choice programs, including school vouchers, education savings accounts, tax credit scholarships, or grants that allow students to attend private schools. Oppose is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Parents' Rights Section 101: "School Choice". "Texas families shall be empowered to choose from public, private, charter, or homeschool options for their children’s education, and the funding shall follow the student without strings attached. We also support tax credits and exemptions for education and choice within the public school system."
Against FoundersPAC

Protecting Homeowners and Businesses from Spiking Property Taxes by Limiting Annual Property Assessment Increases.

This bill, the Property Tax Relief Act, contains a couple key provisions designed to limit increases in property taxes. Most notably, the bill lowers the appraisal cap from 10% to 5% and would expand the cap to also include business property owners, such as restaurants and apartment complexes, rather than just residential. Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under School Finance and Property Taxation Section 91: "Property Tax Relief". "We support these incremental steps toward the ultimate abolition of property tax: b. Replace the appraisal system with a system that values property at the purchase price."
With FoundersPAC

Reducing Frivolous Litigation by Updating the Residential Construction Liability Act to Limit Liability and Provide Clarifications.

This bill updates the Residential Construction Liability Act to provide additional liability protections for contractors. Under the bill, contractors are not liable for residential construction defects unless actual physical damage occurs, part of a building is unable to be used for its intended purpose, or there is a verifiable danger to the residents. Contractors are also not liable for damages that result from a failure to provide timely notice of a defect. The bill also amends various provisions related to lawsuits arising from construction defects, such as allowing contractors additional time to make a settlement offer. Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Courts, Prosecution, Restitution Section 184: "Frivolous Lawsuits". "We support further reform to discourage frivolous lawsuits. We oppose the abusive use of class action lawsuits and any law that allows government agencies to collect lawyer fees from the plaintiff when they win but not have to pay the plaintiff fees when they lose."
Against FoundersPAC

Worsening Cronyism and Government Central Planning by Forcing Taxpayers to Subsidize an Even Greater Range of Events (Bull Riding and Bassmaster) under the "Major Events Reimbursement Fund".

This bill expands eligibility under the "Major Events Reimbursement Fund" to include a larger range of events ranging from the Bassmaster Classic to motorcycle racing and equestrian competitions. Oppose is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Opposition to Market-Distorting Tax and Fiscal Subsidies Section 97: "Special Funds". "We urge the Texas Legislature to abolish the Special Events Trust Fund program, the Texas Enterprise Fund, and the Moving Image Industry Incentive Program."
Against FoundersPAC

Strengthening Property Rights by Allowing the Removal of Ashe Juniper Trees Without Property Owners being Forced to Pay into a Tree Fund.

This bill prohibits localities from requiring property owners to pay a "tree mitigation fee" in order to remove an Ashe juniper tree on their property. The bill also ensures that localities can't impose any ban which prevents the removal of the tree. Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Markets and Regulation Section 38: "Municipal Preemption". "We encourage the Legislature to preempt local government efforts to interfere with the State’s sovereignty over business, employees, and property rights. This includes but is not limited to burdensome regulations on short-term rentals, bags, sick leave, trees, and employee criminal screening."
Against FoundersPAC

Protecting Against Overreaching Local Regulations by Allowing Businesses to Sue to Block Enforcement.

This bill allows most businesses subject to state licensing requirements to sue localities to prevent the enforcement of local regulations that are more stringent than state regulations or that can be shown to "result in an adverse economic impact." Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Markets and Regulation Section 38: "Municipal Preemption". We encourage the Legislature to preempt local government efforts to interfere with the State’s sovereignty over business, employees, and property rights. This includes but is not limited to burdensome regulations on short-term rentals, bags, sick leave, trees, and employee criminal screening."
Against FoundersPAC

Strengthening Self-Defense and Public Safety by Authorizing Retired Judges to Carry a Firearm into Courthouses and Other Restricted Places.

This bill allows retired judges who have a handgun license to carry a firearm into restricted places, such as courthouses, schools, and polling locations. Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Citizen Rights Section 32: "The Right to Keep and Bear Arms". "State and Federal Legislatures shall: Recognize the right of License to Carry holders to carry anywhere off-duty or retired law enforcement can carry."
With FoundersPAC

Increasing Government Dependency by Expanding the Medicaid Welfare Program to Now Cover Behavioral Health Intensive Outpatient and Partial Hospitalization Services.

This bill expands coverage under Medicaid (government-provided healthcare) to now include behavioral health intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization services. The expansion is estimated to cost an additional $12.3 million over the next five years. Oppose is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Government-funded Health Programs Section 146: "Welfare Reform". "We support the abolition of all federal welfare programs, as they are not an appropriate role of the federal government. Until such time, welfare reform should encourage partnerships with faith-based institutions, community, and business organizations to assist individuals in need. We oppose any further expansion of Medicaid."
Against FoundersPAC

Worsening Cronyism by Forcing Taxpayers to Provide Additional Subsidies to Companies Already Receiving Federal Grants through the Texas Technology and Innovation Trust Fund.

This bill establishes the Texas Technology and Innovation Program to provide matching or supplemental funds to businesses that already receive federal funds through the federal small business innovation research and small business technology transfer programs. Oppose is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Opposition to Market-Distorting Tax and Fiscal Subsidies Section 95: "Bailouts and Subsidies". "We encourage government to divest its ownership of all businesses that should be run in the private sector. We oppose all bailouts of and subsidies to domestic and foreign government entities, states, and for all businesses, public and private."
Against FoundersPAC

Growing Government Central Planning and Runaway Spending by Forcing Taxpayers to Subsidize Grocery Stores in "Food Deserts".

This bill creates the "Texas Grocery Access Investment Fund" "to construct, rehabilitate, or expand grocery stores in underserved low-income and moderate-income areas." The bill requires at least 25% of funds be in the form of grants or forgivable loans, and recipients may use funds to acquire property, construct grocery stores, and for other purposes. Oppose is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Opposition to Market-Distorting Tax and Fiscal Subsidies Section 95: "Bailouts and Subsidies". "We encourage government to divest its ownership of all businesses that should be run in the private sector. We oppose all bailouts of and subsidies to domestic and foreign government entities, states, and for all businesses, public and private."
Against FoundersPAC

Denying Texans Significant Property Tax Relief by Blocking a $20 Billion Tax Cut.

This motion tables (defeats) the Tinderholt amendment #1 to a property tax relief bill. The Tinderholt amendment would provide $20 billion in property tax relief through a reduction applied equally across all school districts. Oppose is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under School Finance and Property Taxation Section 90: "Axe the Property Tax". "We support replacing the property tax system for businesses and individuals with an alternative other than the income tax and requiring voter approval to increase the overall tax burden. We urge the Legislature to immediately develop and implement a transition plan that is a net tax cut."
Against FoundersPAC

Protecting Second Amendment Rights by Preventing Localities from Imposing Liability Insurance Mandates on Firearm Owners.

This bill prohibits local governments from enacting any ordinances which require a firearm owner to obtain liability insurance for "damages resulting from negligent or willful acts involving the use of the firearm." Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Citizen Rights Section 32: "The Right to Keep and Bear Arms". "State and Federal Legislatures shall: Nullify any gun laws that violate the 2nd Amendment or rights of due process."
Against FoundersPAC

Protecting the Oil and Gas Industry from Overreaching Federal Climate Change and Environmental Regulations.

This bill prohibits any state agency from assisting in the enforcement of any federal law or regulation on oil and gas operations unless such action is aligned with state regulation. Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Energy and Environment Section 56: "Midland Not Moscow". "We fully support and encourage greater energy production in the Permian Basin and throughout Texas, as well as the necessary policies and infrastructure investment in roads, pipelines, and ports. This will support Texas workers and help America’s energy security, instead of increasing our reliance on foreign governments that do not benefit America or our allies."
With FoundersPAC

Increasing Property Tax Burdens by Implementing a "Freeze" for Certain Older Individuals which Merely Shifts Burdens onto other Property Owners and Masks Underlying Spending Problems.

This bill authorizes a greater range of local taxing entities to provide tax freezes for seniors or individuals with disabilities. Previous law only provided school districts, counties, municipalities and junior college districts with the ability to provide a freeze, while this bill expands the authority to all local taxing units. Oppose is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Opposition to Market-Distorting Tax and Fiscal Subsidies Section 94: "Property Tax Abatements". "We support repealing Tax Code Chapter 312 county and municipal property tax abatements, and we oppose reintroducing school property tax abatements, formerly known as Chapter 313."
Against FoundersPAC

Growing Government Dependency and Wealth Redistribution through a New Program which Forces Taxpayers to Subsidize Childcare Costs via Employer Partnerships.

This bill creates the employer child-care contribution partnership program for the purpose of "incentivizing eligible employers to contribute to employee child-care costs and providing a state match for funds contributed." Under the program, an employer must pay at least 20% of the employee's child care and the child care provider must be determined by the Texas Workforce Commission to be a "high-quality program." Individuals are eligible to receive a full match of the employer's contribution if their household income does not exceed the state median household income, with the matching amounts incrementally decreased if their income is higher. Oppose is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Opposition to Market-Distorting Tax and Fiscal Subsidies Section 95: "Bailouts and Subsidies". "We encourage government to divest its ownership of all businesses that should be run in the private sector. We oppose all bailouts of and subsidies to domestic and foreign government entities, states, and for all businesses, public and private."
Against FoundersPAC

Protecting Truck Rental Companies from Frivolous Litigation for Not Retrofitting Trucks with Safety Equipment Upon their Sale.

This bill provides that a person who sells or leases a vehicle weighing at least 6,000 lbs. is not liable for not retrofitting the vehicle with equipment, or selecting certain equipment, that was not required under federal regulations when the vehicle was manufactured or sold. Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Courts, Prosecution, Restitution Section 184: "Frivolous Lawsuits". "We support further reform to discourage frivolous lawsuits. We oppose the abusive use of class action lawsuits and any law that allows government agencies to collect lawyer fees from the plaintiff when they win but not have to pay the plaintiff fees when they lose."
With FoundersPAC

Expanding Borrowing and Lending Opportunities by Raising the Maximum Allowable Interest Rate on Consumer Loans by Including the Federal Funds Rate in the Calculation.

This bill raises the maximum allowable interest rate which lenders may charge on consumer loans, by now allowing the federal funds rate to be included in the calculation. While existing law currently caps consumer loan interest rates between 18% and 30%, the addition of the federal funds rate could allow lenders to charge another 5% to 6% depending on the rate of inflation. Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Markets and Regulation Section 41: "Reduce Business Regulations". "We believe that .. businesses should be minimally regulated at all levels".
With FoundersPAC

Hiking Property Taxes by Gaming the Calculation of the "No-New Revenue" Property Tax Rate.

This bill changes the way the "no-new-revenue tax rate" is calculated by referencing the Texas Education Code. This new calculation will result in a higher rate (ultimately higher taxes) by including other funding within the formula. Oppose is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under School Finance and Property Taxation Section 91: "Property Tax Relief". "We support these incremental steps toward the ultimate abolition of property tax: d. Close the loophole called the “Unused Increment Rate,” which allows taxing entities to bypass recently added limits to increases in property taxes.
Against FoundersPAC

Worsening Cronyism by Making it Even Easier for Woke Hollywood Production Companies to become Enriched through Taxpayer Subsidies.

This bill makes it easier for movie production companies to receive a grant under the moving image industry incentive program by reducing the percentage of production crew, actors, and extras who must be Texas residents from 70% to 55%. Oppose is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Opposition to Market-Distorting Tax and Fiscal Subsidies Section 97: "Special Funds". "We urge the Texas Legislature to abolish the Special Events Trust Fund program, the Texas Enterprise Fund, and the Moving Image Industry Incentive Program."
Against FoundersPAC

Fueling Lawlessness and Business Closures by Making it Harder to Prosecute and Punish Cases of Organized Retail Theft.

This bill generally raises the bar to prosecute organized retail theft by now requiring a person to steal at least $100 of merchandise and be found to have "intent for the redistribution of that merchandise into the supply chain" to be guilty. Oppose is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Courts, Prosecution, Restitution Section 183: "Court Accountability". "We believe district attorneys have a duty to seek justice for victims of all forms of crime and oppose policies that systematically decline to prosecute crimes."
Against FoundersPAC

Expanding Government and Paving the Way for Additional Energy Efficiency Mandates through the Creation of a Texas Energy Efficiency Council.

This bill creates the Texas Energy Efficiency Council within the Public Utilities Commission to, among other purposes, "provide a statewide collaborative approach to promoting energy efficiency" and "make recommendations for improving energy efficiency programs." Oppose is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Government Operations Section 237: "Unelected Bureaucrats". "We oppose the appointment of unelected bureaucrats, and we support defunding and abolishing the departments or agencies: Energy".
Against FoundersPAC

Further Growing Medicaid Welfare Spending by Hiking the Monthly Personal Needs Allowance at Long-Term Care Facilities.

This bill increases the personal needs allowance provided to Medicaid welfare recipients at long-term care facilities (nursing homes). Under the bill the monthly allowance is increased by 25 percent to $75 from $60, which is more than double the federal $30 monthly minimum. Oppose is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Government-funded Health Programs Section 146: "Welfare Reform". "We support the abolition of all federal welfare programs, as they are not an appropriate role of the federal government. Until such time, welfare reform should encourage partnerships with faith-based institutions, community, and business organizations to assist individuals in need. We oppose any further expansion of Medicaid."
Against FoundersPAC

Increasing Frivolous Litigation and Legal Liabilities by Making "Hair Texture and Style" a Protected Characteristic in Employment and Housing.

This bill, the Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair (CROWN) Act, makes a person's hair texture or hairstyle a protected characteristic if is commonly associated with a particular race. CROWN applies to public schools and institutions of higher education, employment, and housing. Oppose is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Courts, Prosecution, Restitution Section 184: "Frivolous Lawsuits". "We support further reform to discourage frivolous lawsuits. We oppose the abusive use of class action lawsuits and any law that allows government agencies to collect lawyer fees from the plaintiff when they win but not have to pay the plaintiff fees when they lose."
Against FoundersPAC

Strengthening National Security and Helping to Combat Illegal Immigration and Human Trafficking Through Additional Border Security Funding and Property Owner Compensation.

This bill provides $100 million in funding to establish a new state border policing unit made up of commissioned peace officers. Funding is also directed to a number of initiatives designed to boost border security such as detention facility upgrades, temporary border barriers and compensation to certain property owners impacted. Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Border Security and Immigration Section 256: "Border Security Funding". "We expect both the Texas Legislature and the United States Congress to make a priority of allocating funds to effectively secure the border through whatever means necessary, including but not limited to barriers, a border wall, and/or fence everywhere along the border where it is feasible and useful, as well as personnel and technology over land, sea, and air. Texas shall seek repayment from the Federal Government for expenses incurred in securing the border."
Against FoundersPAC

Protecting K-12 Students from Pornographic Content by Prohibiting the Sale or Distribution of Obscene Materials to Public Schools.

This bill, the Restricting Explicit and Adult-Designated Educational Resources (READER) Act, prohibits school libraries from purchasing or possessing material that is harmful, sexually explicit, or "pervasively vulgar or educationally unsuitable." The bill also requires vendors to issue ratings for sexually explicit materials and schools must obtain parental consent before students may check out such materials from a school library. Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Parents' Rights Section 106: "Inapporpriate and/or Harmful Content". "We request that the Texas Legislature pass legislation that requires Texas schools and libraries to filter inappropriate and/or harmful content, such as pornography, for minors. Operators of adult sex entertainment businesses and venues, adult entertainment of any kind, including Drag Queen Story Hour, shall not be part of educational programming in public schools, libraries, or any other taxpayer-funded program for children."
Against FoundersPAC

Ensuring the Free Competition of Currency and U.S. Monetary System Protection by Enshrining Right to Utilize Multiple Currencies.

This resolution would amend the state Constitution to enshrine the right to utilize multiple currencies, if the involved parties agree, in private transactions. This includes cash, coin, silver and gold bullion, digital currency, and privately issued scrip. The resolution prohibits the state and local governments from prohibiting or restricting holding such currencies. Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Transparency and Oversight Section 99: "Right to Use Cash and Cash Substitutes". " We support adding the following protection to the Texas Bill of Rights: The right of the people to own, hold, and use a mutually agreed upon medium of exchange, including cash, coin, bullion, digital currency, or scrip, when trading and contracting for goods and services shall not be infringed. No government shall prohibit or encumber the ownership or holding of any form or amount of money or other currency."
With FoundersPAC

Increasing Tax Burdens on other Property Owners through a Crony Carveout Providing Physicians a Tax Exemption if they Provide Indigent Services.

This resolution amends the state constitution to authorize counties to grant property tax exemptions to physicians who provide services to indigent patients. The tax exemption may cover up to 50% of the assessed value of a physician's homestead. Oppose is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Opposition to Market-Distorting Tax and Fiscal Subsidies Section 94: "Property Tax Abatements". "We support repealing Tax Code Chapter 312 county and municipal property tax abatements, and we oppose reintroducing school property tax abatements, formerly known as Chapter 313."
Against FoundersPAC

Protecting Consumer Choice by Preventing Localities from Imposing any Ordinance which Restricts or Bans Gas-Powered Engines or a Source of Energy.

This bill prohibits local governments from enacting any ordinances which bans or restricts the sale or use of an engine based on the type of fuel used. Additionally, the bill prevents localities from banning any energy source infrastructure (such as gas stations). Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Transportation Section 63: "Freedom to Travel". "We oppose the Biden Infrastructure and Green Energy Plan that threatens our freedom to travel, imposes a federal mileage tax, as well as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) or other social justice policies on Texas taxpayers and drivers. We oppose anti-car measures that punish those who choose to travel alone in their own personal vehicle, and oppose any measure to impose “road diet” mandates designed to shrink auto capacity and/or intentionally clog vehicle lanes to force deference to pedestrian, bike, and mass transit options (whose users do not pay gas tax)."
With FoundersPAC

Worsening Texas' Unfunded Pension Crisis by Providing Even Greater Unpromised Payouts to Beneficiaries.

The Bryant amendment #3 to a bill relating to teacher retirement benefits. This amendment increases the cost-of-living-adjustment (COLA) by an additional 4%. For example, a retired teacher who would receive a 6% COLA under the bill, would now receive a 10% COLA. Oppose is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Spending Restraint Section 78: "Government Pensions". "The Texas Legislature shall enact new rules to begin to transition government pensions for public sector employees from a defined benefit pension to a defined contribution retirement plan similar to a 403(b)."
Against FoundersPAC

Hiking Property Taxes through a New Tax Exemption Scheme which Socializes Childcare Facility Costs.

This bill allows localities to implement a property tax credit equal to at least 50% of the value of property used for childcare services. Only facilities in which at least 20% of the children receive subsidized childcare services are eligible. Additionally, if the property owner leases the property to a childcare facility, the rent charged must be reduced to reflect the tax credit received. Oppose is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Opposition to Market-Distorting Tax and Fiscal Subsidies Section 94: "Property Tax Abatements". "We support repealing Tax Code Chapter 312 county and municipal property tax abatements, and we oppose reintroducing school property tax abatements, formerly known as Chapter 313."
Against FoundersPAC

Protecting Children Under 18 from Sex-Reassignment Surgeries and Prescriptions with Irreversible Implications Until they are Old Enough to Consent.

This bill prohibits children under 18 years of age from receiving sex-reassignment procedures or puberty blockers until they reach the age of consent. Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Homosexuality and Gender Issues Section 156: "Gender Identity". "We oppose all efforts to validate transgender identity. For the purpose of attempting to affirm a person age 21 or under if their perception is inconsistent with their biological sex, no medical practitioner or provider may engage in the following practices: a. Intervene in any way to prevent natural progression of puberty. b. Administer or provide opposite sex hormones. c. Perform any surgery on healthy body parts of that person."
With FoundersPAC

Strengthening National Security by Creating an Interstate Compact for Border Security to Help Combat Illegal Immigration and Human Trafficking.

This bill is designed to curb illegal immigration by allowing the Governor to establish an interstate compact for border security with any interested states for the purpose of sharing intelligence and resources to build a physical wall along the U.S.-Mexico border. Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Border Security and Immigration Section 256: "Border Security Funding". "We expect both the Texas Legislature and the United States Congress to make a priority of allocating funds to effectively secure the border through whatever means necessary, including but not limited to barriers, a border wall, and/or fence everywhere along the border where it is feasible and useful, as well as personnel and technology over land, sea, and air. Texas shall seek repayment from the Federal Government for expenses incurred in securing the border."
Against FoundersPAC

Further Growing Government's Unsustainable Land Holdings through a $1 Billion Centennial Parks Conservation Fund Program.

This bill provides for the Centennial Parks Conservation Fund, created this legislative session via a constitutional amendment, to be used to purchase land "for the creation and improvement of publicly accessible state parks." The state budget included $1 billion in funding for this purpose. The state is currently tasked with managing and maintaining over 13 million acres of land under its control. Oppose is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Land Use Section 222: "Property Rights". "Property ownership and free enterprise, the foundation of our collective wealth, must not be abridged nor denied by government. We support legislation to protect these bedrock rights. Areas of concern are: .. nationalization of land".
Against FoundersPAC

Infringing Property Rights and Consumer Choice by Allowing State Bureaucrats to Impose Additional Energy Efficiency and Water Conservation Mandates on New Buildings.

This bill allows officials within the State Energy Conservation Office (SECO) to impose additional energy efficiency and water conservation regulations on individuals constructing new homes or commercial buildings. Most notably, the bill would permit adoption of the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) which contains much more stringent efficiency standards, as well as even further stringent standards in the future without legislative approval. Oppose is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Government Operations Section 237: "Unelected Bureaucrats". "We oppose the appointment of unelected bureaucrats, and we support defunding and abolishing the departments or agencies: Energy".
Against FoundersPAC

Providing Property Tax Relief to Homeowners by Raising the Homestead Exemption to $100,000.

This bill, the Property Tax Relief Act, contains several provisions related to property taxes. Most notably, the bill increases the homestead property tax exemption from $40,000 to $100,000. Additionally, the bill enacts a "circuit breaker" provision on the appraised value of real property other than a residence homestead. As a result, the appraised market value of a property is limited to a 1-year increase of 20% plus any new improvements. Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under School Finance and Property Taxation Section 90: "Axe the Property Tax". "We support replacing the property tax system for businesses and individuals with an alternative other than the income tax and requiring voter approval to increase the overall tax burden. We urge the Legislature to immediately develop and implement a transition plan that is a net tax cut."
With FoundersPAC

Expanding Economic Growth by Increasing the Franchisee Tax Exemption from $1 Million to $2.47 Million.

This bill provides that businesses with revenue up to $2.47 million are not required to pay any franchise tax (previously $1 million). Additionally, those businesses are no longer required to file a tax information report. Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Spending Restraint Section 82: "Repeal Taxes". "We support abolishing the following: Business franchise taxes."
With FoundersPAC

Restoring Law and Order by Earmarking $1.54 Billion in State Funds to Construct Barriers Securing the Mexico Border.

This bill earmarks $1.54 billion in state funds to continue construction of barriers along the Mexico border. Additionally, the bill provides $40 million for State Troopers to patrol Colony Ridge which has high levels of illegal immigrants. Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Border Security and Immigration Section 256: "Border Security Funding". "We expect both the Texas Legislature and the United States Congress to make a priority of allocating funds to effectively secure the border through whatever means necessary, including but not limited to barriers, a border wall, and/or fence everywhere along the border where it is feasible and useful, as well as personnel and technology over land, sea, and air. Texas shall seek repayment from the Federal Government for expenses incurred in securing the border."
Against FoundersPAC

Strengthening National Security and Law and Order through 10 Year Mandatory Minimum Sentences for Human Trafficking.

This bill establishes 10-year mandatory minimum sentences for individuals convicted of human smuggling and 5-year mandatory minimum sentences for operating a stash house (10 years if in an area subject to a declared state of disaster). The bill also enhances penalties for property damage that occurs as a result of concealing or harboring a person in the country illegally from a misdemeanor to a third-degree felony (2-10 years in prison). Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Courts, Prosecutions, Restitution Section 187: "Human Trafficking Jurisdiction". "The Texas Legislature shall pass legislation granting the Texas Attorney General full concurrent jurisdiction over multi-jurisdictional cases, to be limited specifically to those cases involving human trafficking."
With FoundersPAC

Restoring Law and Order by Authorizing Texas Police to Arrest Illegal Immigrants Crossing the Border from Mexico to Texas.

This bill makes it a state crime to cross the Texas-Mexico border between ports of entry. The bill authorizes the Texas police to arrest illegal migrants and makes the crime a Class B misdemeanor carrying a punishment of up to 6 months in jail. Repeat offenders could face a second-degree felony. Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Border Security and Immigration Section 257: "State Self-Defense". "We urge the Texas Legislature to invoke Article 1, Section 10, Clause 3 of the US Constitution, also known as the “state self-defense clause,” which asserts that under an active invasion (as defined or declared by the Governor of the State or Texas Legislature), the sovereign state of Texas has the authority and duty to defend Texas citizens against “imminent Danger,” not admitting delay, by any and all appropriate measures the sovereign state defines as necessary to defend from such assaults."
Against FoundersPAC

Protecting the Ability of School Districts and Charter Schools to Employ Chaplains.

This bill allows school districts and charter schools to employ a chaplain for purposes of providing "support, services, and programs" to students. The bill also allows volunteer chaplains and provides that chaplains are not required to be certified by the State Board for Educator Certification. Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Parents' Rights Section 108: "Religious Freedom and Public Schools". We urge school administrators and officials not to infringe on Texas school students’ and staffs’ rights to pray and engage in religious speech, individually or in groups, on school property without government interference. We urge the Legislature to end censorship of discussion of religion in our founding documents and encourage discussing those documents, including the Bible as their basis. Students have the right to exhibit religious items on school property. "
Against FoundersPAC

Growing the Regulatory State through an Excessive "Food Allergen Awareness" Poster Mandate on all Restaurants and Food Establishments.

This bill requires all restaurants to display a "food allergen awareness" poster for employees, with the content to be determined by the Department of State Health Services. Additionally, food education and training programs are now required to include food allergy information, and a food manager certificate examination must include this information. Oppose is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Markets and Regulation Section 41: "Reduce Business Regulations". "We believe that .. businesses should be minimally regulated at all levels".
Against FoundersPAC

Combatting Radical-Left ESG Policies Imposed by Insurance Companies

This bill establishes a series of new regulations which prohibit insurance companies operating in the state from discriminating against companies on the basis of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG). The new framework applies to both coverage decisions of insurers as well as their rate setting practices. Support is the position of the Texas GOP Platform under Markets and Regulation Section 46: "Texas Resistance to the Great Reset". "Texas should continue to pass legislation needed to protect the citizens of Texas from corporate violation of their rights in the Great Reset/Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) scheme as follows: Make it illegal for banks and financial institutions operating in Texas to make lending decisions based on anything other than financial concerns. The model for such legislation shall be the Fair Access to Financial Services rule promulgated by President Trump’s Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, which was immediately suspended by the current occupant of the White House.
With FoundersPAC
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