Austin News

As the 89th Texas legislative session approaches, lawmakers are set to convene on January 14 in Austin. The agenda for the first day includes swearing-in ceremonies and a House Speaker election. Following these formalities, legislators will debate and vote on House rules, with committee meetings anticipated to begin by late February or early March.

Anthony Gutierrez, executive director of Common Cause Texas, emphasized the importance of focusing on significant issues facing the state during this limited legislative period. He stated: “Our legislature only meets for a few months every two years, so it is absolutely vital that lawmakers put aside partisan gamesmanship and get right to work on the biggest problems facing Texas.”

Gutierrez highlighted concerns about democracy and transparency as priorities for this session. He noted that Texas consistently ranks low in voter participation and suggested several reforms to address this issue. “Adopting online voter registration would represent a monumental leap forward for our archaic voter registration system," he said. He also advocated for changes in public school voter registration requirements and setting contribution limits for state offices.

In addition to promoting these reforms, Gutierrez assured that Common Cause Texas would defend against efforts perceived as threats to democratic processes. These include attempts to eliminate countywide polling places, expand the Secretary of State's oversight powers, or end early voting.

Common Cause Texas has been active since 1970 in defending democratic principles, a commitment Gutierrez reiterated: “Since 1970, Common Cause Texas and our tens of thousands of members have been staunch defenders of our democratic system, and lawmakers can expect more of same in this legislative session.”

A press briefing titled "Protecting Democracy in the South" is scheduled for January 14 at noon ET by Common Cause’s state leaders. This event will cover voting rights issues and provide legislative updates relevant to southern states.