Texas Governor Greg Abbott has expanded the agenda for the current special session. This new legislation aims to penalize lawmakers who intentionally leave the state to block legislative actions. This change follows a dramatic walkout by House Democrats earlier this month, who fled Texas in protest against a GOP-backed redistricting plan, preventing a quorum in the chamber.
Abbott stated, “We need to ensure that rogue lawmakers cannot hijack the important business of Texans during a legislative session by fleeing the state.” His comments reflect a growing concern among lawmakers about maintaining order during sessions.
This week, with the Democrats back in the chamber, the Texas House finally reached a quorum and passed a controversial measure known as House Bill 4. This Republican-backed bill aims to redraw Texas’s congressional maps, potentially creating up to five additional districts favoring the GOP. It’s expected that the Texas Senate will follow suit and that the governor will sign it into law.
Along with the penalties for fleeing lawmakers, Abbott has also added two significant items to the agenda:
- The first allows the purchase of Ivermectin at pharmacies. Originally developed for animals in the 1970s and approved for humans in the ’80s, Ivermectin has become a topic of debate, especially during the pandemic. Advocates argue it should be more accessible for its reported benefits.
- The second item directs the Texas Water Development Board to conduct a groundwater study of East Texas aquifers. Abbott emphasized the need for thorough studies to protect these vital water resources.
Recent surveys indicate that many Texans are concerned about the implications of these changes. A **2023 poll** found that **65% of Texans** believe it’s essential to safeguard legislative integrity, while **72%** express worry about water resources in the East Texas region. This outcry highlights the tension between political maneuvering and public interest.
Social media reactions have varied, with some praising Abbott’s actions as necessary for accountability, while others criticize them as heavy-handed tactics that stifle dissent. As political tensions remain high, these legislative developments could significantly affect Texas politics in the upcoming elections.
For additional insights on the implications of Ivermectin’s wider availability, check out this **CDC report** on its effects and usage.
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Texas, North Texas
