John,

Starting September 1, numerous new laws passed by the Texas Legislature and signed by Gov. Abbott go into effect.

• SB 8: Essentially a ban on abortion because it prohibits the procedure at six weeks of pregnancy, before most know they are pregnant. This law also allows anyone to sue any Texan who helps someone obtain an abortion after six weeks.
• HB 3979: Based on fear mongering and conspiracy theories, this law censors public school lessons that teach the true history of racism and inequality. It also discourages young people from participating in civic engagement activities.
• HB 1927: A permit will no longer be required to carry a handgun, openly or concealed.

This is the first wave of harmful laws. More are on the way following the current special legislative session, including the voter suppression legislation backed by state Republicans.

September 1 should remind all of us of the importance of this work as we look to the future. A third special legislative is expected in the coming weeks, and soon we will be in the middle of what is sure to be a difficult midterm election cycle.

More than ever before, our presence at the Capitol, our leadership and our strong network of activists are needed to fight for the values you care about and even defend democracy itself. With your support of TFN's Rapid Response Fund, you will help ensure that attacks on our values don’t go unanswered.

With so much at stake, we depend on you to help us win this fight. Your generous donation today to our Rapid Response Fund will make a huge difference.

Onward,

Val Benavidez
TFN President