By State Rep. Jeff Leach
Texas Insider Report: AUSTIN, Texas – As you know, over the course of the last several weeks the Texas Legislature has been in a special session as called by Governor Perry. Specifically, the Legislature has been focused on addressing redistricting, criminal justice legislation, various pro-life issues and transportation funding. Since the special session was called, the Texas House and Senate effectively passed legislation upholding the interim court-ordered maps that were instated for the 2012 election.
Additionally, the Texas House passed Senate Bill 5, a critical pro-life bill that will save countless innocent human lives while providing crucial safeguards and raising the standard of care for women who elect to undergo such procedures. I strongly believe that we have a duty not only to protect human life, but to actively promote a strong culture of life, which is why I am extremely honored and grateful to have had the opportunity to participate in this monumental and historic pro-life discussion in the Texas House.
In addition to Senate Bill 5, the Texas House passed legislation providing additional juvenile sentencing options as well as substantial funding measures to address our state’s rapidly growing, long-term transportation needs.
Based on the Texas Constitution, the special session expired yesterday at midnight. As the Texas Senate began debate on Senate Bill 5 yesterday morning, a historical filibuster and thousands of protestors prevented its passage, as well as the final passage of the vital criminal justice and transportation funding legislation.
I and many of my colleagues are urging Governor Perry to call another special session so that we may address this unfinished business, which is strongly supported by a majority of Texans who want, need and deserve substantive solutions to these critical and time-sensitive issues. We owe it to the people who elected us to put partisan politics aside and address these items head-on.
Should you have questions or concerns about any legislation put forth during the special session, please do not hesitate to contact my office at (972) 424-1419 or District67.Leach@house.state.tx.us.
