| From | True Texas Project <[email protected]> |
| Subject | Last day to vote is Tuesday. We can help! |
| Date | November 1, 2021 4:40 PM |
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JMs=3D.
After reading and researching, make your own decisions and be SURE TO GO VO=
TE! These elections have notoriously low turn out, so these things are oft=
en decided by a very small number of people. Don't let someone else make p=
olicy on your behalf - VOTE. Election day is Nov. 2. There may or may not=
be other things on your ballot like special elections for vacated position=
s, school bonds, or other local issues and propositions.
To know exactly what is going to be on YOUR ballot, contact your local coun=
ty elections administrator and request a sample ballot that is specific to =
your address.
THE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS
PROPOSITION 1
The constitutional amendment authorizing the professional sports team chari=
table foundations of organizations sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cow=
boys Association or the Women=E2=80=99s Professional Rodeo Association to c=
onduct charitable raffles at rodeo venues.
ORIGIN: HJR 143 (Geren) - Designates sanctioned rodeos as professional spo=
rts teams and authorizes their charitable foundations to conduct raffles.
Julie's comment: INDIFERENT - I don't care if they can or can't have raffl=
es
Fran's comment: YES. If the privilege is extended to other sports teams, =
then rodeos ought to have it as well.
PROPOSITION 2
The constitutional amendment authorizing a county to finance the developmen=
t or redevelopment of transportation or infrastructure in unproductive, und=
erdeveloped, or blighted areas in the county.
ORIGIN: HJR99, HB1531 (Canales) - Authorizes counties to issue bonds to fu=
nd infrastructure and transportation projects in underdeveloped, unproducti=
ve or blighted areas.
PROBLEM: the final language was changed to remove the statement that =E2=
=80=9Cad valorum taxes=E2=80=9D would be used to repay the debt. Uninforme=
d voters may not realize that their taxes are used to fund these projects. =
The language needs to be changed to be more transparent. Also is vague en=
ough to open door to eminent domain abuses, and definitions of =E2=80=9Cund=
erdeveloped, unproductive or blighted=E2=80=9D. It is being promoted as im=
provements with =E2=80=9Cno new taxes=E2=80=9D which is deceptive.
Julie's comment: NO - this is another tax, and TTP will be part of a lawsu=
it if it passes because it is so poorly worded and tricks people into votin=
g for a tax, when you know that if they understood, they would not do that.=
Plus it was already voted down before, in 2011 (when the tax language was =
left in there).
Fran's comment: Definite NO for reasons stated above. These are the legis=
lative games that they play, thinking we, the voters, are too uninformed (o=
r stupid) to notice. We are neither uninformed or stupid! Voting NO on th=
is one.
PROPOSITION 3
The constitutional amendment to prohibit this state or a political subdivis=
ion of the state from prohibiting or limiting religious services of religio=
us organizations.
ORIGIN: ORIGIN: SJR27 (Hancock) -State and local governments may not enac=
t any rules that prohibit or limit religious services by religious organiza=
tions.
PROBLEM: (not for some) =E2=80=93 We already have this protection in the U=
S Constitution 1st Amendment, and the Texas Constitution Article 1, Section=
6.
Julie's comment: YES - I understand that we are already protected by the U=
S Constitution. Some say that adding it to the TX Constitution means they c=
ould at some point change their mind and take it away. I disagree because i=
t would still be in the US Constitution. It brings no harm to adding it to =
the TX one. Lots of stuff is repeated in both. Plus, if we do break away, i=
t will already be in there. I understand both sides.
Fran's comment: NO. If I acknowledge that the legislature can tell us tha=
t governments can not close churches, then I have also acknowledged that th=
ey could close churches in the first place. I do not accept that. The ri=
ght to worship when/where/how I choose is a God-given right, guaranteed in =
the first amendment of the US Constitution AND in Article I, Section 6 of t=
he Texas Constitution. It's already in the Texas Constitution. This is a =
personal principle issue for me - I know this amendment will pass, but I wi=
ll not vote for it.
PROPOSITION 4
The constitutional amendment providing additional powers to the State Commi=
ssion on Judicial Conduct with respect to candidates for judicial office.
ORIGIN: HJR165 (Jetton) - Authorizes the commission on judicial conduct to=
investigate complaints against judicial candidates in the same manner that=
they investigate judicial officeholders.
Julie's comment: YES - I'm ok with investigating judicial complaints
Fran's comment: YES - judicial candidates operate under a different set of=
ethics rules than candidates for other offices. If incumbent candidates a=
re subject to the Commission on Judicial Conduct, then non incumbent candid=
ates should be subject to the same rules.
PROPOSITION 5
The constitutional amendment changing the eligibility requirements for a ju=
stice of the Supreme Court, a judge of the court of criminal appeals, a jus=
tice of a court of appeals, and a district judge.
ORIGIN: SJR47 (Huffman) - Increases the qualification requirements for TX =
Supreme Court, TX Criminal Court of Appeals and District Court Judges. Sup=
reme and Criminal Court of Appeals =E2=80=93 10 years=E2=80=99 experience; =
and District Courts =E2=80=93 8 years=E2=80=99 experience.
Julie's comment: Yes - I'm ok with increased experience in our judges and =
justices
Fran's comment: UNDECIDED - I'm still torn on this one. The way I read i=
t, the requirements for Supreme Court Judges is the same, and the requireme=
nt for District Judges changes from 4 years to 8 years. I probably will vo=
te YES, because more experience is better, but I'm still puzzled by this am=
endment. I'm probably missing something, and I plan to talk to Senator Huf=
fman's office to get a better understanding before I vote.
PROPOSITION 6
The constitutional amendment establishing a right for residents of certain =
facilities to designate an essential caregiver or in-person visitation.
ORIGIN: SJR19 (Kolkhorst) - Residents of nursing, assisted living, and sim=
ilar residential facilities have the right to designate an essential caregi=
ver who may not be denied in-person visitation.
Julie's comment: YES - never again should people in nursing homes be aband=
oned because Governor Abbott says so
Fran's comment: YES - We all saw the devastation that came last year when =
long term care facility residents were denied access to their family, frien=
ds, or any outside non staff interaction. People literally wasted away and=
died. It's probably one of the worst tragedies of our time. This amendme=
nt guarantees the right of every resident to have at least one essential ca=
re giver who cannot be denied in person visits.
PROPOSITION 7
The constitutional amendment to allow the surviving spouse of a person who =
is disabled to receive a limitation on the school district ad valorem taxes=
on the spouse=E2=80=99s residence homestead if the spouse is 55 years of a=
ge or older at the time of the person=E2=80=99s death.
ORIGIN: HJR125 (Ellzey) - Extends the current homestead school tax limit f=
or disabled individuals to surviving spouses who are at least 55 years old =
and reside at the home.
Julie's comment: YES - I like lowering taxes for anyone and everyone in or=
der to starve the govt. I am not for special carve outs for all widows of t=
he disabled though, because many of them are young and will remarry. Since =
this specifies you must be 55 or older, I'm ok with it.
Fran's comment: NO - I am generally not in favor of most exemptions becaus=
e we have too many, and it puts additional burdens on the rest of the tax p=
ayers. Rather than starving the government, it puts additional taxes on the=
rest of the taxpayers. I support exemptions for disabled persons, and som=
e other groups, but surviving spouses should qualify on their own, not have=
the exemption extended because of their deceased spouse's disability. HOW=
EVER - property taxes should be eliminated and then we wouldn't be putting =
these constant band aids on the tax code.
PROPOSITION 8
The constitutional amendment authorizing the Legislature to provide an exem=
ption from ad valorem taxation of all or part of the market value of the re=
sidence homestead of the surviving spouse of a member of the armed services=
of the United States who is killed or fatally injured in the line of duty.
ORIGIN: SJR35 (Campbell) - Expands the current homestead tax exemption to =
include surviving spouses of service members fatally injured in the line of=
duty, along with those killed outright.
Julie's comment: NO - I do like lowering taxes for everyone because it giv=
es the govt less money, but I don't see how this group of people should hav=
e a special carve out. It's for widows of veterans but doesn't add an age l=
imit. Again, the young will likely remarry.
Fran's comment: NO - for the same reasons stated in Prop 7.
Suggestions for further study: One way to better understand the proposed a=
mendments is to look at the originating legislation (each amendment starts =
with a bill number in the house or senate and is referenced above). If tha=
t doesn=E2=80=99t help you, it=E2=80=99s a good opportunity to talk with th=
e legislator who authored the bill. Contact them or their offices (legisla=
tive directors are good people to talk to about this) and ask what was on t=
heir minds and the purpose of the legislation. They generally welcome the =
opportunity to talk about legislation they proposed and brag on it. So, ta=
lk to them!
If you need assistance in looking up the origin legislation, contacting the=
authors of the bills, or contacting your own representative, please let us=
know. We=E2=80=99re happy to assist and we can show you how to do that.
Email questions to Fran Rhodes, [email protected]
AND DON'T FORGET TO VOTE!
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Click here to donate to our cause.
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<th class=3D"columns small-12 large-12 first last" style=3D"w=
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nt-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0 auto; Margin: 0 auto; padding-to=
p: 24px; padding-bottom: 24px; word-break: break-word; width: 564px; paddin=
g-left: 24px; padding-right: 24px; border-collapse: collapse;"><p style=3D"=
color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-weight: 400; =
padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: left; font-size: 12pt; line-h=
eight: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom: 10px;"><a href=3D"[link removed]
pi.neonemails.com/emails/tracking/click-link/THSxFo-EhL7oxo4MLudlgsOHjrBckR=
pfJFKgjOY-JMs=3D/FVkRR9wJjDxbMXRKRRmZLpDhIQeNT_vyVru1IE0Pmpo=3D" target=3D"=
_blank" rel=3D"noopener" style=3D"color: #0074d9; text-decoration: none; fo=
nt-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-weight: inherit; padding: 0; te=
xt-align: left; line-height: 1.5;"><img src=3D"[link removed]
.neoncrm.com/neon/resource/truetexasproject/images/header.gif?dummy=3D16300=
86055447" align=3D"left" border=3D"0" hspace=3D"0" style=3D"outline: none; =
text-decoration: none; -ms-interpolation-mode: bicubic; max-width: 100%; cl=
ear: both; margin: 0 auto; Margin: 0 auto; float: none; text-align: center;=
border: none; display: block; height: auto;"></a></p></th>=20
</tr>=20
</tbody>
</table>=20
<table class=3D"row" style=3D"border-spacing: 0; border-collapse=
: collapse; vertical-align: top; text-align: left; padding: 0; position: re=
lative; width: 100%; display: table; margin: 0; Margin: 0; background-color=
: #ffffff; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">=20
<tbody>
<tr style=3D"padding: 0; vertical-align: top; text-align: left=
;">=20
<th class=3D"columns small-12 large-12 first last" style=3D"w=
ord-wrap: break-word; vertical-align: top; color: #3c4144; font-family: ari=
al,helvetica,sans-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; text-align: left; fo=
nt-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0 auto; Margin: 0 auto; padding-to=
p: 24px; padding-bottom: 24px; word-break: break-word; width: 564px; paddin=
g-left: 24px; padding-right: 24px; border-collapse: collapse;">
<div dir=3D"ltr">=20
<figure style=3D"margin: 0 0 1rem; Margin: 0 0 1rem;">
<!--[if mso]><center><![end-if]-->
<img class=3D"float-center" src=3D"[link removed]
t.app.neoncrm.com/neon/resource/truetexasproject/images/Vote.jpg" alt=3D"Vo=
te.jpg" width=3D"225" align=3D"middle" style=3D"outline: none; text-decorat=
ion: none; -ms-interpolation-mode: bicubic; max-width: 100%; clear: both; d=
isplay: block; margin: 0 auto; Margin: 0 auto; float: none; text-align: cen=
ter; height: auto;">
</figure>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">After reading and researching, make your own decisions and be <stro=
ng>SURE TO GO VOTE!</strong> These elections have notoriously low tur=
n out, so these things are often decided by a very small number of people.&=
nbsp; Don't let someone else make policy on your behalf - VOTE. Elect=
ion day is Nov. 2. There may or may not be other things on your ballo=
t like special elections for vacated positions, school bonds, or other loca=
l issues and propositions.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">To know exactly what is going to be on YOUR ballot, contact your lo=
cal county elections administrator and request a sample ballot that is spec=
ific to your address.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; font-size: 12=
pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom: 10px; text-align:=
center;"><strong> </strong><strong>THE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS<br></stron=
g></p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;"><strong>PROPOSITION 1</strong></p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">The constitutional amendment authorizing the professional sports te=
am charitable foundations of organizations sanctioned by the Professional R=
odeo Cowboys Association or the Women=E2=80=99s Professional Rodeo Associat=
ion to conduct charitable raffles at rodeo venues.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">ORIGIN: HJR 143 (Geren) - Designates sanctioned rodeos as pro=
fessional sports teams and authorizes their charitable foundations to condu=
ct raffles.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Julie's comment: INDIFERENT - I don't care if they can or can=
't have raffles</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Fran's comment: YES. If the privilege is extended to ot=
her sports teams, then rodeos ought to have it as well.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;"><strong>PROPOSITION 2</strong></p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">The constitutional amendment authorizing a county to finance the de=
velopment or redevelopment of transportation or infrastructure in unproduct=
ive, underdeveloped, or blighted areas in the county.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">ORIGIN: HJR99, HB1531 (Canales) - Authorizes counties to issu=
e bonds to fund infrastructure and transportation projects in underdevelope=
d, unproductive or blighted areas.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;"><strong>PROBLEM</strong>: <em> the final language <strong>was =
changed to remove the statement that =E2=80=9Cad valorum taxes=E2=80=9D</st=
rong> <strong>would be used to repay the debt. </strong> Uninformed vo=
ters may not realize that their taxes are used to fund these projects. =
; The language needs to be changed to be more transparent. Also is va=
gue enough to open door to eminent domain abuses, and definitions of =E2=80=
=9Cunderdeveloped, unproductive or blighted=E2=80=9D. It is being pro=
moted as improvements with =E2=80=9Cno new taxes=E2=80=9D which is deceptiv=
e.</em></p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Julie's comment: NO - this is another tax, and TTP will be pa=
rt of a lawsuit if it passes because it is so poorly worded and tricks peop=
le into voting for a tax, when you know that if they understood, they would=
not do that. Plus it was already voted down before, in 2011 (when the tax =
language was left in there).</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Fran's comment: Definite NO for reasons stated above. T=
hese are the legislative games that they play, thinking we, the voters, are=
too uninformed (or stupid) to notice. We are neither uninformed or s=
tupid! Voting NO on this one.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;"><strong>PROPOSITION 3</strong></p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">The constitutional amendment to prohibit this state or a political =
subdivision of the state from prohibiting or limiting religious services of=
religious organizations.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">ORIGIN: ORIGIN: SJR27 (Hancock) -State and local govern=
ments may not enact any rules that prohibit or limit religious services by =
religious organizations.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;"><strong>PROBLEM:</strong> (not for some) =E2=80=93 <em>We alr=
eady have this protection in the US Constitution 1<sup>st</sup> Amendment, =
and the Texas Constitution Article 1, Section 6.</em></p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Julie's comment: YES - I understand that we are already prote=
cted by the US Constitution. Some say that adding it to the TX Constitution=
means they could at some point change their mind and take it away. I disag=
ree because it would still be in the US Constitution. It brings no harm to =
adding it to the TX one. Lots of stuff is repeated in both. Plus, if we do =
break away, it will already be in there. I understand both sides.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Fran's comment: NO. If I acknowledge that the legislatu=
re can tell us that governments can <strong>not</strong> close churches, th=
en I have also acknowledged that they <strong>could</strong> close ch=
urches in the first place. I do not accept that. The right to w=
orship when/where/how I choose is a God-given right, guaranteed in the firs=
t amendment of the US Constitution AND in Article I, Section 6 of the Texas=
Constitution. It's already in the Texas Constitution. This is =
a personal principle issue for me - I know this amendment will pass, but I =
will not vote for it.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;"><strong>PROPOSITION 4</strong></p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">The constitutional amendment providing additional powers to the Sta=
te Commission on Judicial Conduct with respect to candidates for judicial o=
ffice.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">ORIGIN: HJR165 (Jetton) - Authorizes the commission on judici=
al conduct to investigate complaints against judicial candidates in the sam=
e manner that they investigate judicial officeholders.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Julie's comment: YES - I'm ok with investigating judicial com=
plaints</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Fran's comment: YES - judicial candidates operate under a dif=
ferent set of ethics rules than candidates for other offices. If incu=
mbent candidates are subject to the Commission on Judicial Conduct, then no=
n incumbent candidates should be subject to the same rules.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;"><strong>PROPOSITION 5</strong></p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">The constitutional amendment changing the eligibility requirements =
for a justice of the Supreme Court, a judge of the court of criminal appeal=
s, a justice of a court of appeals, and a district judge.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">ORIGIN: SJR47 (Huffman) - Increases the qualification require=
ments for TX Supreme Court, TX Criminal Court of Appeals and District Court=
Judges. Supreme and Criminal Court of Appeals =E2=80=93 10 years=E2=
=80=99 experience; and District Courts =E2=80=93 8 years=E2=80=99 experienc=
e.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Julie's comment: Yes - I'm ok with increased experience in ou=
r judges and justices</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Fran's comment: UNDECIDED - I'm still torn on this one.=
The way I read it, the requirements for Supreme Court Judges is the =
same, and the requirement for District Judges changes from 4 years to 8 yea=
rs. I probably will vote YES, because more experience is better, but =
I'm still puzzled by this amendment. I'm probably missing something, =
and I plan to talk to Senator Huffman's office to get a better understandin=
g before I vote.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;"><strong>PROPOSITION 6</strong></p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">The constitutional amendment establishing a right for residents of =
certain facilities to designate an essential caregiver or in-person visitat=
ion.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">ORIGIN: SJR19 (Kolkhorst) - Residents of nursing, assisted li=
ving, and similar residential facilities have the right to designate an ess=
ential caregiver who may not be denied in-person visitation.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Julie's comment: YES - never again should people in nursing h=
omes be abandoned because Governor Abbott says so</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Fran's comment: YES - We all saw the devastation that came la=
st year when long term care facility residents were denied access to their =
family, friends, or any outside non staff interaction. People literal=
ly wasted away and died. It's probably one of the worst tragedies of =
our time. This amendment guarantees the right of every resident to ha=
ve at least one essential care giver who cannot be denied in person visits.=
</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;"><strong>PROPOSITION 7</strong></p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">The constitutional amendment to allow the surviving spouse of a per=
son who is disabled to receive a limitation on the school district ad valor=
em taxes on the spouse=E2=80=99s residence homestead if the spouse is 55 ye=
ars of age or older at the time of the person=E2=80=99s death.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">ORIGIN: HJR125 (Ellzey) - Extends the current homestead schoo=
l tax limit for disabled individuals to surviving spouses who are at least =
55 years old and reside at the home.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Julie's comment: YES - I like lowering taxes for anyone and e=
veryone in order to starve the govt. I am not for special carve outs for al=
l widows of the disabled though, because many of them are young and will re=
marry. Since this specifies you must be 55 or older, I'm ok with it.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Fran's comment: NO - I am generally not in favor of most exem=
ptions because we have too many, and it puts additional burdens on the rest=
of the tax payers. Rather than starving the government, it puts additional=
taxes on the rest of the taxpayers. I support exemptions for disable=
d persons, and some other groups, but surviving spouses should qualify on t=
heir own, not have the exemption extended because of their deceased spouse'=
s disability. <em>HOWEVER - property taxes should be eliminated and t=
hen we wouldn't be putting these constant band aids on the tax code.</em></=
p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;"><strong>PROPOSITION 8</strong></p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">The constitutional amendment authorizing the Legislature to provide=
an exemption from ad valorem taxation of all or part of the market value o=
f the residence homestead of the surviving spouse of a member of the armed =
services of the United States who is killed or fatally injured in the line =
of duty.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">ORIGIN: SJR35 (Campbell) - Expands the current homestead tax =
exemption to include surviving spouses of service members fatally injured i=
n the line of duty, along with those killed outright.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Julie's comment: NO - I do like lowering taxes for everyone b=
ecause it gives the govt less money, but I don't see how this group of peop=
le should have a special carve out. It's for widows of veterans but doesn't=
add an age limit. Again, the young will likely remarry.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Fran's comment: NO - for the same reasons stated in Prop 7.</=
p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;"><strong>Suggestions for further study:</strong> One way to be=
tter understand the proposed amendments is to look at the originating legis=
lation (each amendment starts with a bill number in the house or senate and=
is referenced above). If that doesn=E2=80=99t help you, it=E2=80=99s=
a good opportunity to talk with the legislator who authored the bill. &nbs=
p;Contact them or their offices (legislative directors are good people to t=
alk to about this) and ask what was on their minds and the purpose of the l=
egislation. They generally welcome the opportunity to talk about legi=
slation they proposed and brag on it. So, talk to them!</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">If you need assistance in looking up the origin legislation, contac=
ting the authors of the bills, or contacting your own representative, pleas=
e let us know. We=E2=80=99re happy to assist and we can show you how =
to do that.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Email questions to Fran Rhodes, [email protected]</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">AND DON'T FORGET TO VOTE!</p>=20
</div> <p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvet=
ica,sans-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-al=
ign: left; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-b=
ottom: 10px;"> </p> <p class=3D"float-center" style=3D"color: #3c4144;=
font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; mar=
gin: 0; Margin: 0; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; =
Margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: center;"> </p></th>=20
</tr>=20
</tbody>
</table>=20
<table class=3D"row" style=3D"border-spacing: 0; border-collapse=
: collapse; vertical-align: top; text-align: left; padding: 0; position: re=
lative; width: 100%; display: table; margin: 0; Margin: 0; background-color=
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padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin=
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t-size: 14px;"> </span></p> <p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: a=
rial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin:=
0; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom: =
10px; text-align: center;"><strong><span style=3D"color: #cc0000;"> </=
span><span style=3D"color: #000055;">Click </span><a href=3D"[link removed]
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If you're having trouble viewing this email, you can see it online, [link removed].
After reading and researching, make your own decisions and be SURE TO GO VOTE! These elections have notoriously low turn out, so these things are often decided by a very small number of people. Don't let someone else make policy on your behalf - VOTE. Election day is Nov. 2. There may or may not be other things on your ballot like special elections for vacated positions, school bonds, or other local issues and propositions.
To know exactly what is going to be on YOUR ballot, contact your local county elections administrator and request a sample ballot that is specific to your address.
THE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS
PROPOSITION 1
The constitutional amendment authorizing the professional sports team charitable foundations of organizations sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association or the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association to conduct charitable raffles at rodeo venues.
ORIGIN: HJR 143 (Geren) - Designates sanctioned rodeos as professional sports teams and authorizes their charitable foundations to conduct raffles.
Julie's comment: INDIFERENT - I don't care if they can or can't have raffles
Fran's comment: YES. If the privilege is extended to other sports teams, then rodeos ought to have it as well.
PROPOSITION 2
The constitutional amendment authorizing a county to finance the development or redevelopment of transportation or infrastructure in unproductive, underdeveloped, or blighted areas in the county.
ORIGIN: HJR99, HB1531 (Canales) - Authorizes counties to issue bonds to fund infrastructure and transportation projects in underdeveloped, unproductive or blighted areas.
PROBLEM: the final language was changed to remove the statement that “ad valorum taxes” would be used to repay the debt. Uninformed voters may not realize that their taxes are used to fund these projects. The language needs to be changed to be more transparent. Also is vague enough to open door to eminent domain abuses, and definitions of “underdeveloped, unproductive or blighted”. It is being promoted as improvements with “no new taxes” which is deceptive.
Julie's comment: NO - this is another tax, and TTP will be part of a lawsuit if it passes because it is so poorly worded and tricks people into voting for a tax, when you know that if they understood, they would not do that. Plus it was already voted down before, in 2011 (when the tax language was left in there).
Fran's comment: Definite NO for reasons stated above. These are the legislative games that they play, thinking we, the voters, are too uninformed (or stupid) to notice. We are neither uninformed or stupid! Voting NO on this one.
PROPOSITION 3
The constitutional amendment to prohibit this state or a political subdivision of the state from prohibiting or limiting religious services of religious organizations.
ORIGIN: ORIGIN: SJR27 (Hancock) -State and local governments may not enact any rules that prohibit or limit religious services by religious organizations.
PROBLEM: (not for some) – We already have this protection in the US Constitution 1st Amendment, and the Texas Constitution Article 1, Section 6.
Julie's comment: YES - I understand that we are already protected by the US Constitution. Some say that adding it to the TX Constitution means they could at some point change their mind and take it away. I disagree because it would still be in the US Constitution. It brings no harm to adding it to the TX one. Lots of stuff is repeated in both. Plus, if we do break away, it will already be in there. I understand both sides.
Fran's comment: NO. If I acknowledge that the legislature can tell us that governments can not close churches, then I have also acknowledged that they could close churches in the first place. I do not accept that. The right to worship when/where/how I choose is a God-given right, guaranteed in the first amendment of the US Constitution AND in Article I, Section 6 of the Texas Constitution. It's already in the Texas Constitution. This is a personal principle issue for me - I know this amendment will pass, but I will not vote for it.
PROPOSITION 4
The constitutional amendment providing additional powers to the State Commission on Judicial Conduct with respect to candidates for judicial office.
ORIGIN: HJR165 (Jetton) - Authorizes the commission on judicial conduct to investigate complaints against judicial candidates in the same manner that they investigate judicial officeholders.
Julie's comment: YES - I'm ok with investigating judicial complaints
Fran's comment: YES - judicial candidates operate under a different set of ethics rules than candidates for other offices. If incumbent candidates are subject to the Commission on Judicial Conduct, then non incumbent candidates should be subject to the same rules.
PROPOSITION 5
The constitutional amendment changing the eligibility requirements for a justice of the Supreme Court, a judge of the court of criminal appeals, a justice of a court of appeals, and a district judge.
ORIGIN: SJR47 (Huffman) - Increases the qualification requirements for TX Supreme Court, TX Criminal Court of Appeals and District Court Judges. Supreme and Criminal Court of Appeals – 10 years’ experience; and District Courts – 8 years’ experience.
Julie's comment: Yes - I'm ok with increased experience in our judges and justices
Fran's comment: UNDECIDED - I'm still torn on this one. The way I read it, the requirements for Supreme Court Judges is the same, and the requirement for District Judges changes from 4 years to 8 years. I probably will vote YES, because more experience is better, but I'm still puzzled by this amendment. I'm probably missing something, and I plan to talk to Senator Huffman's office to get a better understanding before I vote.
PROPOSITION 6
The constitutional amendment establishing a right for residents of certain facilities to designate an essential caregiver or in-person visitation.
ORIGIN: SJR19 (Kolkhorst) - Residents of nursing, assisted living, and similar residential facilities have the right to designate an essential caregiver who may not be denied in-person visitation.
Julie's comment: YES - never again should people in nursing homes be abandoned because Governor Abbott says so
Fran's comment: YES - We all saw the devastation that came last year when long term care facility residents were denied access to their family, friends, or any outside non staff interaction. People literally wasted away and died. It's probably one of the worst tragedies of our time. This amendment guarantees the right of every resident to have at least one essential care giver who cannot be denied in person visits.
PROPOSITION 7
The constitutional amendment to allow the surviving spouse of a person who is disabled to receive a limitation on the school district ad valorem taxes on the spouse’s residence homestead if the spouse is 55 years of age or older at the time of the person’s death.
ORIGIN: HJR125 (Ellzey) - Extends the current homestead school tax limit for disabled individuals to surviving spouses who are at least 55 years old and reside at the home.
Julie's comment: YES - I like lowering taxes for anyone and everyone in order to starve the govt. I am not for special carve outs for all widows of the disabled though, because many of them are young and will remarry. Since this specifies you must be 55 or older, I'm ok with it.
Fran's comment: NO - I am generally not in favor of most exemptions because we have too many, and it puts additional burdens on the rest of the tax payers. Rather than starving the government, it puts additional taxes on the rest of the taxpayers. I support exemptions for disabled persons, and some other groups, but surviving spouses should qualify on their own, not have the exemption extended because of their deceased spouse's disability. HOWEVER - property taxes should be eliminated and then we wouldn't be putting these constant band aids on the tax code.
PROPOSITION 8
The constitutional amendment authorizing the Legislature to provide an exemption from ad valorem taxation of all or part of the market value of the residence homestead of the surviving spouse of a member of the armed services of the United States who is killed or fatally injured in the line of duty.
ORIGIN: SJR35 (Campbell) - Expands the current homestead tax exemption to include surviving spouses of service members fatally injured in the line of duty, along with those killed outright.
Julie's comment: NO - I do like lowering taxes for everyone because it gives the govt less money, but I don't see how this group of people should have a special carve out. It's for widows of veterans but doesn't add an age limit. Again, the young will likely remarry.
Fran's comment: NO - for the same reasons stated in Prop 7.
Suggestions for further study: One way to better understand the proposed amendments is to look at the originating legislation (each amendment starts with a bill number in the house or senate and is referenced above). If that doesn’t help you, it’s a good opportunity to talk with the legislator who authored the bill. Contact them or their offices (legislative directors are good people to talk to about this) and ask what was on their minds and the purpose of the legislation. They generally welcome the opportunity to talk about legislation they proposed and brag on it. So, talk to them!
If you need assistance in looking up the origin legislation, contacting the authors of the bills, or contacting your own representative, please let us know. We’re happy to assist and we can show you how to do that.
Email questions to Fran Rhodes, [email protected]
AND DON'T FORGET TO VOTE!
Click here to donate to our cause.
This email was sent to [email protected]. Click here to [link removed].
Content-Type: multipart/alternative;
boundary="----=_Part_3153105_571919219.1635784810175"
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Content-Transfer-Encoding: quoted-printable
If you're having trouble viewing this email, you can see it online, https:/=
/api.neonemails.com/emails/content/THSxFo-EhL7oxo4MLudlgsOHjrBckRpfJFKgjOY-=
JMs=3D.
After reading and researching, make your own decisions and be SURE TO GO VO=
TE! These elections have notoriously low turn out, so these things are oft=
en decided by a very small number of people. Don't let someone else make p=
olicy on your behalf - VOTE. Election day is Nov. 2. There may or may not=
be other things on your ballot like special elections for vacated position=
s, school bonds, or other local issues and propositions.
To know exactly what is going to be on YOUR ballot, contact your local coun=
ty elections administrator and request a sample ballot that is specific to =
your address.
THE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS
PROPOSITION 1
The constitutional amendment authorizing the professional sports team chari=
table foundations of organizations sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cow=
boys Association or the Women=E2=80=99s Professional Rodeo Association to c=
onduct charitable raffles at rodeo venues.
ORIGIN: HJR 143 (Geren) - Designates sanctioned rodeos as professional spo=
rts teams and authorizes their charitable foundations to conduct raffles.
Julie's comment: INDIFERENT - I don't care if they can or can't have raffl=
es
Fran's comment: YES. If the privilege is extended to other sports teams, =
then rodeos ought to have it as well.
PROPOSITION 2
The constitutional amendment authorizing a county to finance the developmen=
t or redevelopment of transportation or infrastructure in unproductive, und=
erdeveloped, or blighted areas in the county.
ORIGIN: HJR99, HB1531 (Canales) - Authorizes counties to issue bonds to fu=
nd infrastructure and transportation projects in underdeveloped, unproducti=
ve or blighted areas.
PROBLEM: the final language was changed to remove the statement that =E2=
=80=9Cad valorum taxes=E2=80=9D would be used to repay the debt. Uninforme=
d voters may not realize that their taxes are used to fund these projects. =
The language needs to be changed to be more transparent. Also is vague en=
ough to open door to eminent domain abuses, and definitions of =E2=80=9Cund=
erdeveloped, unproductive or blighted=E2=80=9D. It is being promoted as im=
provements with =E2=80=9Cno new taxes=E2=80=9D which is deceptive.
Julie's comment: NO - this is another tax, and TTP will be part of a lawsu=
it if it passes because it is so poorly worded and tricks people into votin=
g for a tax, when you know that if they understood, they would not do that.=
Plus it was already voted down before, in 2011 (when the tax language was =
left in there).
Fran's comment: Definite NO for reasons stated above. These are the legis=
lative games that they play, thinking we, the voters, are too uninformed (o=
r stupid) to notice. We are neither uninformed or stupid! Voting NO on th=
is one.
PROPOSITION 3
The constitutional amendment to prohibit this state or a political subdivis=
ion of the state from prohibiting or limiting religious services of religio=
us organizations.
ORIGIN: ORIGIN: SJR27 (Hancock) -State and local governments may not enac=
t any rules that prohibit or limit religious services by religious organiza=
tions.
PROBLEM: (not for some) =E2=80=93 We already have this protection in the U=
S Constitution 1st Amendment, and the Texas Constitution Article 1, Section=
6.
Julie's comment: YES - I understand that we are already protected by the U=
S Constitution. Some say that adding it to the TX Constitution means they c=
ould at some point change their mind and take it away. I disagree because i=
t would still be in the US Constitution. It brings no harm to adding it to =
the TX one. Lots of stuff is repeated in both. Plus, if we do break away, i=
t will already be in there. I understand both sides.
Fran's comment: NO. If I acknowledge that the legislature can tell us tha=
t governments can not close churches, then I have also acknowledged that th=
ey could close churches in the first place. I do not accept that. The ri=
ght to worship when/where/how I choose is a God-given right, guaranteed in =
the first amendment of the US Constitution AND in Article I, Section 6 of t=
he Texas Constitution. It's already in the Texas Constitution. This is a =
personal principle issue for me - I know this amendment will pass, but I wi=
ll not vote for it.
PROPOSITION 4
The constitutional amendment providing additional powers to the State Commi=
ssion on Judicial Conduct with respect to candidates for judicial office.
ORIGIN: HJR165 (Jetton) - Authorizes the commission on judicial conduct to=
investigate complaints against judicial candidates in the same manner that=
they investigate judicial officeholders.
Julie's comment: YES - I'm ok with investigating judicial complaints
Fran's comment: YES - judicial candidates operate under a different set of=
ethics rules than candidates for other offices. If incumbent candidates a=
re subject to the Commission on Judicial Conduct, then non incumbent candid=
ates should be subject to the same rules.
PROPOSITION 5
The constitutional amendment changing the eligibility requirements for a ju=
stice of the Supreme Court, a judge of the court of criminal appeals, a jus=
tice of a court of appeals, and a district judge.
ORIGIN: SJR47 (Huffman) - Increases the qualification requirements for TX =
Supreme Court, TX Criminal Court of Appeals and District Court Judges. Sup=
reme and Criminal Court of Appeals =E2=80=93 10 years=E2=80=99 experience; =
and District Courts =E2=80=93 8 years=E2=80=99 experience.
Julie's comment: Yes - I'm ok with increased experience in our judges and =
justices
Fran's comment: UNDECIDED - I'm still torn on this one. The way I read i=
t, the requirements for Supreme Court Judges is the same, and the requireme=
nt for District Judges changes from 4 years to 8 years. I probably will vo=
te YES, because more experience is better, but I'm still puzzled by this am=
endment. I'm probably missing something, and I plan to talk to Senator Huf=
fman's office to get a better understanding before I vote.
PROPOSITION 6
The constitutional amendment establishing a right for residents of certain =
facilities to designate an essential caregiver or in-person visitation.
ORIGIN: SJR19 (Kolkhorst) - Residents of nursing, assisted living, and sim=
ilar residential facilities have the right to designate an essential caregi=
ver who may not be denied in-person visitation.
Julie's comment: YES - never again should people in nursing homes be aband=
oned because Governor Abbott says so
Fran's comment: YES - We all saw the devastation that came last year when =
long term care facility residents were denied access to their family, frien=
ds, or any outside non staff interaction. People literally wasted away and=
died. It's probably one of the worst tragedies of our time. This amendme=
nt guarantees the right of every resident to have at least one essential ca=
re giver who cannot be denied in person visits.
PROPOSITION 7
The constitutional amendment to allow the surviving spouse of a person who =
is disabled to receive a limitation on the school district ad valorem taxes=
on the spouse=E2=80=99s residence homestead if the spouse is 55 years of a=
ge or older at the time of the person=E2=80=99s death.
ORIGIN: HJR125 (Ellzey) - Extends the current homestead school tax limit f=
or disabled individuals to surviving spouses who are at least 55 years old =
and reside at the home.
Julie's comment: YES - I like lowering taxes for anyone and everyone in or=
der to starve the govt. I am not for special carve outs for all widows of t=
he disabled though, because many of them are young and will remarry. Since =
this specifies you must be 55 or older, I'm ok with it.
Fran's comment: NO - I am generally not in favor of most exemptions becaus=
e we have too many, and it puts additional burdens on the rest of the tax p=
ayers. Rather than starving the government, it puts additional taxes on the=
rest of the taxpayers. I support exemptions for disabled persons, and som=
e other groups, but surviving spouses should qualify on their own, not have=
the exemption extended because of their deceased spouse's disability. HOW=
EVER - property taxes should be eliminated and then we wouldn't be putting =
these constant band aids on the tax code.
PROPOSITION 8
The constitutional amendment authorizing the Legislature to provide an exem=
ption from ad valorem taxation of all or part of the market value of the re=
sidence homestead of the surviving spouse of a member of the armed services=
of the United States who is killed or fatally injured in the line of duty.
ORIGIN: SJR35 (Campbell) - Expands the current homestead tax exemption to =
include surviving spouses of service members fatally injured in the line of=
duty, along with those killed outright.
Julie's comment: NO - I do like lowering taxes for everyone because it giv=
es the govt less money, but I don't see how this group of people should hav=
e a special carve out. It's for widows of veterans but doesn't add an age l=
imit. Again, the young will likely remarry.
Fran's comment: NO - for the same reasons stated in Prop 7.
Suggestions for further study: One way to better understand the proposed a=
mendments is to look at the originating legislation (each amendment starts =
with a bill number in the house or senate and is referenced above). If tha=
t doesn=E2=80=99t help you, it=E2=80=99s a good opportunity to talk with th=
e legislator who authored the bill. Contact them or their offices (legisla=
tive directors are good people to talk to about this) and ask what was on t=
heir minds and the purpose of the legislation. They generally welcome the =
opportunity to talk about legislation they proposed and brag on it. So, ta=
lk to them!
If you need assistance in looking up the origin legislation, contacting the=
authors of the bills, or contacting your own representative, please let us=
know. We=E2=80=99re happy to assist and we can show you how to do that.
Email questions to Fran Rhodes, [email protected]
AND DON'T FORGET TO VOTE!
=20
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Click here to donate to our cause.
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t.app.neoncrm.com/neon/resource/truetexasproject/images/Vote.jpg" alt=3D"Vo=
te.jpg" width=3D"225" align=3D"middle" style=3D"outline: none; text-decorat=
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ter; height: auto;">
</figure>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">After reading and researching, make your own decisions and be <stro=
ng>SURE TO GO VOTE!</strong> These elections have notoriously low tur=
n out, so these things are often decided by a very small number of people.&=
nbsp; Don't let someone else make policy on your behalf - VOTE. Elect=
ion day is Nov. 2. There may or may not be other things on your ballo=
t like special elections for vacated positions, school bonds, or other loca=
l issues and propositions.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">To know exactly what is going to be on YOUR ballot, contact your lo=
cal county elections administrator and request a sample ballot that is spec=
ific to your address.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; font-size: 12=
pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom: 10px; text-align:=
center;"><strong> </strong><strong>THE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS<br></stron=
g></p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;"><strong>PROPOSITION 1</strong></p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">The constitutional amendment authorizing the professional sports te=
am charitable foundations of organizations sanctioned by the Professional R=
odeo Cowboys Association or the Women=E2=80=99s Professional Rodeo Associat=
ion to conduct charitable raffles at rodeo venues.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">ORIGIN: HJR 143 (Geren) - Designates sanctioned rodeos as pro=
fessional sports teams and authorizes their charitable foundations to condu=
ct raffles.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Julie's comment: INDIFERENT - I don't care if they can or can=
't have raffles</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Fran's comment: YES. If the privilege is extended to ot=
her sports teams, then rodeos ought to have it as well.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;"><strong>PROPOSITION 2</strong></p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">The constitutional amendment authorizing a county to finance the de=
velopment or redevelopment of transportation or infrastructure in unproduct=
ive, underdeveloped, or blighted areas in the county.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">ORIGIN: HJR99, HB1531 (Canales) - Authorizes counties to issu=
e bonds to fund infrastructure and transportation projects in underdevelope=
d, unproductive or blighted areas.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;"><strong>PROBLEM</strong>: <em> the final language <strong>was =
changed to remove the statement that =E2=80=9Cad valorum taxes=E2=80=9D</st=
rong> <strong>would be used to repay the debt. </strong> Uninformed vo=
ters may not realize that their taxes are used to fund these projects. =
; The language needs to be changed to be more transparent. Also is va=
gue enough to open door to eminent domain abuses, and definitions of =E2=80=
=9Cunderdeveloped, unproductive or blighted=E2=80=9D. It is being pro=
moted as improvements with =E2=80=9Cno new taxes=E2=80=9D which is deceptiv=
e.</em></p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Julie's comment: NO - this is another tax, and TTP will be pa=
rt of a lawsuit if it passes because it is so poorly worded and tricks peop=
le into voting for a tax, when you know that if they understood, they would=
not do that. Plus it was already voted down before, in 2011 (when the tax =
language was left in there).</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Fran's comment: Definite NO for reasons stated above. T=
hese are the legislative games that they play, thinking we, the voters, are=
too uninformed (or stupid) to notice. We are neither uninformed or s=
tupid! Voting NO on this one.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;"><strong>PROPOSITION 3</strong></p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">The constitutional amendment to prohibit this state or a political =
subdivision of the state from prohibiting or limiting religious services of=
religious organizations.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">ORIGIN: ORIGIN: SJR27 (Hancock) -State and local govern=
ments may not enact any rules that prohibit or limit religious services by =
religious organizations.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;"><strong>PROBLEM:</strong> (not for some) =E2=80=93 <em>We alr=
eady have this protection in the US Constitution 1<sup>st</sup> Amendment, =
and the Texas Constitution Article 1, Section 6.</em></p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Julie's comment: YES - I understand that we are already prote=
cted by the US Constitution. Some say that adding it to the TX Constitution=
means they could at some point change their mind and take it away. I disag=
ree because it would still be in the US Constitution. It brings no harm to =
adding it to the TX one. Lots of stuff is repeated in both. Plus, if we do =
break away, it will already be in there. I understand both sides.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Fran's comment: NO. If I acknowledge that the legislatu=
re can tell us that governments can <strong>not</strong> close churches, th=
en I have also acknowledged that they <strong>could</strong> close ch=
urches in the first place. I do not accept that. The right to w=
orship when/where/how I choose is a God-given right, guaranteed in the firs=
t amendment of the US Constitution AND in Article I, Section 6 of the Texas=
Constitution. It's already in the Texas Constitution. This is =
a personal principle issue for me - I know this amendment will pass, but I =
will not vote for it.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;"><strong>PROPOSITION 4</strong></p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">The constitutional amendment providing additional powers to the Sta=
te Commission on Judicial Conduct with respect to candidates for judicial o=
ffice.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">ORIGIN: HJR165 (Jetton) - Authorizes the commission on judici=
al conduct to investigate complaints against judicial candidates in the sam=
e manner that they investigate judicial officeholders.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Julie's comment: YES - I'm ok with investigating judicial com=
plaints</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Fran's comment: YES - judicial candidates operate under a dif=
ferent set of ethics rules than candidates for other offices. If incu=
mbent candidates are subject to the Commission on Judicial Conduct, then no=
n incumbent candidates should be subject to the same rules.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;"><strong>PROPOSITION 5</strong></p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">The constitutional amendment changing the eligibility requirements =
for a justice of the Supreme Court, a judge of the court of criminal appeal=
s, a justice of a court of appeals, and a district judge.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">ORIGIN: SJR47 (Huffman) - Increases the qualification require=
ments for TX Supreme Court, TX Criminal Court of Appeals and District Court=
Judges. Supreme and Criminal Court of Appeals =E2=80=93 10 years=E2=
=80=99 experience; and District Courts =E2=80=93 8 years=E2=80=99 experienc=
e.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Julie's comment: Yes - I'm ok with increased experience in ou=
r judges and justices</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Fran's comment: UNDECIDED - I'm still torn on this one.=
The way I read it, the requirements for Supreme Court Judges is the =
same, and the requirement for District Judges changes from 4 years to 8 yea=
rs. I probably will vote YES, because more experience is better, but =
I'm still puzzled by this amendment. I'm probably missing something, =
and I plan to talk to Senator Huffman's office to get a better understandin=
g before I vote.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;"><strong>PROPOSITION 6</strong></p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">The constitutional amendment establishing a right for residents of =
certain facilities to designate an essential caregiver or in-person visitat=
ion.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">ORIGIN: SJR19 (Kolkhorst) - Residents of nursing, assisted li=
ving, and similar residential facilities have the right to designate an ess=
ential caregiver who may not be denied in-person visitation.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Julie's comment: YES - never again should people in nursing h=
omes be abandoned because Governor Abbott says so</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Fran's comment: YES - We all saw the devastation that came la=
st year when long term care facility residents were denied access to their =
family, friends, or any outside non staff interaction. People literal=
ly wasted away and died. It's probably one of the worst tragedies of =
our time. This amendment guarantees the right of every resident to ha=
ve at least one essential care giver who cannot be denied in person visits.=
</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;"><strong>PROPOSITION 7</strong></p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">The constitutional amendment to allow the surviving spouse of a per=
son who is disabled to receive a limitation on the school district ad valor=
em taxes on the spouse=E2=80=99s residence homestead if the spouse is 55 ye=
ars of age or older at the time of the person=E2=80=99s death.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">ORIGIN: HJR125 (Ellzey) - Extends the current homestead schoo=
l tax limit for disabled individuals to surviving spouses who are at least =
55 years old and reside at the home.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Julie's comment: YES - I like lowering taxes for anyone and e=
veryone in order to starve the govt. I am not for special carve outs for al=
l widows of the disabled though, because many of them are young and will re=
marry. Since this specifies you must be 55 or older, I'm ok with it.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Fran's comment: NO - I am generally not in favor of most exem=
ptions because we have too many, and it puts additional burdens on the rest=
of the tax payers. Rather than starving the government, it puts additional=
taxes on the rest of the taxpayers. I support exemptions for disable=
d persons, and some other groups, but surviving spouses should qualify on t=
heir own, not have the exemption extended because of their deceased spouse'=
s disability. <em>HOWEVER - property taxes should be eliminated and t=
hen we wouldn't be putting these constant band aids on the tax code.</em></=
p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;"><strong>PROPOSITION 8</strong></p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">The constitutional amendment authorizing the Legislature to provide=
an exemption from ad valorem taxation of all or part of the market value o=
f the residence homestead of the surviving spouse of a member of the armed =
services of the United States who is killed or fatally injured in the line =
of duty.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">ORIGIN: SJR35 (Campbell) - Expands the current homestead tax =
exemption to include surviving spouses of service members fatally injured i=
n the line of duty, along with those killed outright.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Julie's comment: NO - I do like lowering taxes for everyone b=
ecause it gives the govt less money, but I don't see how this group of peop=
le should have a special carve out. It's for widows of veterans but doesn't=
add an age limit. Again, the young will likely remarry.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Fran's comment: NO - for the same reasons stated in Prop 7.</=
p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;"><strong>Suggestions for further study:</strong> One way to be=
tter understand the proposed amendments is to look at the originating legis=
lation (each amendment starts with a bill number in the house or senate and=
is referenced above). If that doesn=E2=80=99t help you, it=E2=80=99s=
a good opportunity to talk with the legislator who authored the bill. &nbs=
p;Contact them or their offices (legislative directors are good people to t=
alk to about this) and ask what was on their minds and the purpose of the l=
egislation. They generally welcome the opportunity to talk about legi=
slation they proposed and brag on it. So, talk to them!</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">If you need assistance in looking up the origin legislation, contac=
ting the authors of the bills, or contacting your own representative, pleas=
e let us know. We=E2=80=99re happy to assist and we can show you how =
to do that.</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">Email questions to Fran Rhodes, [email protected]</p>=20
<p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvetica,sa=
ns-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-align: l=
eft; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-bottom:=
10px;">AND DON'T FORGET TO VOTE!</p>=20
</div> <p style=3D"color: #3c4144; font-family: arial,helvet=
ica,sans-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; margin: 0; Margin: 0; text-al=
ign: left; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; Margin-b=
ottom: 10px;"> </p> <p class=3D"float-center" style=3D"color: #3c4144;=
font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; mar=
gin: 0; Margin: 0; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 10px; =
Margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: center;"> </p></th>=20
</tr>=20
</tbody>
</table>=20
<table class=3D"row" style=3D"border-spacing: 0; border-collapse=
: collapse; vertical-align: top; text-align: left; padding: 0; position: re=
lative; width: 100%; display: table; margin: 0; Margin: 0; background-color=
: #ffffff; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">=20
<tbody>
<tr style=3D"padding: 0; vertical-align: top; text-align: left=
;">=20
<th class=3D"columns small-12 large-12 first last" style=3D"w=
ord-wrap: break-word; vertical-align: top; color: #3c4144; font-family: ari=
al,helvetica,sans-serif; font-weight: 400; padding: 0; text-align: left; fo=
nt-size: 12pt; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0 auto; Margin: 0 auto; padding-to=
p: 24px; padding-bottom: 24px; word-break: break-word; width: 564px; paddin=
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If you're having trouble viewing this email, you can see it online, [link removed].
After reading and researching, make your own decisions and be SURE TO GO VOTE! These elections have notoriously low turn out, so these things are often decided by a very small number of people. Don't let someone else make policy on your behalf - VOTE. Election day is Nov. 2. There may or may not be other things on your ballot like special elections for vacated positions, school bonds, or other local issues and propositions.
To know exactly what is going to be on YOUR ballot, contact your local county elections administrator and request a sample ballot that is specific to your address.
THE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS
PROPOSITION 1
The constitutional amendment authorizing the professional sports team charitable foundations of organizations sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association or the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association to conduct charitable raffles at rodeo venues.
ORIGIN: HJR 143 (Geren) - Designates sanctioned rodeos as professional sports teams and authorizes their charitable foundations to conduct raffles.
Julie's comment: INDIFERENT - I don't care if they can or can't have raffles
Fran's comment: YES. If the privilege is extended to other sports teams, then rodeos ought to have it as well.
PROPOSITION 2
The constitutional amendment authorizing a county to finance the development or redevelopment of transportation or infrastructure in unproductive, underdeveloped, or blighted areas in the county.
ORIGIN: HJR99, HB1531 (Canales) - Authorizes counties to issue bonds to fund infrastructure and transportation projects in underdeveloped, unproductive or blighted areas.
PROBLEM: the final language was changed to remove the statement that “ad valorum taxes” would be used to repay the debt. Uninformed voters may not realize that their taxes are used to fund these projects. The language needs to be changed to be more transparent. Also is vague enough to open door to eminent domain abuses, and definitions of “underdeveloped, unproductive or blighted”. It is being promoted as improvements with “no new taxes” which is deceptive.
Julie's comment: NO - this is another tax, and TTP will be part of a lawsuit if it passes because it is so poorly worded and tricks people into voting for a tax, when you know that if they understood, they would not do that. Plus it was already voted down before, in 2011 (when the tax language was left in there).
Fran's comment: Definite NO for reasons stated above. These are the legislative games that they play, thinking we, the voters, are too uninformed (or stupid) to notice. We are neither uninformed or stupid! Voting NO on this one.
PROPOSITION 3
The constitutional amendment to prohibit this state or a political subdivision of the state from prohibiting or limiting religious services of religious organizations.
ORIGIN: ORIGIN: SJR27 (Hancock) -State and local governments may not enact any rules that prohibit or limit religious services by religious organizations.
PROBLEM: (not for some) – We already have this protection in the US Constitution 1st Amendment, and the Texas Constitution Article 1, Section 6.
Julie's comment: YES - I understand that we are already protected by the US Constitution. Some say that adding it to the TX Constitution means they could at some point change their mind and take it away. I disagree because it would still be in the US Constitution. It brings no harm to adding it to the TX one. Lots of stuff is repeated in both. Plus, if we do break away, it will already be in there. I understand both sides.
Fran's comment: NO. If I acknowledge that the legislature can tell us that governments can not close churches, then I have also acknowledged that they could close churches in the first place. I do not accept that. The right to worship when/where/how I choose is a God-given right, guaranteed in the first amendment of the US Constitution AND in Article I, Section 6 of the Texas Constitution. It's already in the Texas Constitution. This is a personal principle issue for me - I know this amendment will pass, but I will not vote for it.
PROPOSITION 4
The constitutional amendment providing additional powers to the State Commission on Judicial Conduct with respect to candidates for judicial office.
ORIGIN: HJR165 (Jetton) - Authorizes the commission on judicial conduct to investigate complaints against judicial candidates in the same manner that they investigate judicial officeholders.
Julie's comment: YES - I'm ok with investigating judicial complaints
Fran's comment: YES - judicial candidates operate under a different set of ethics rules than candidates for other offices. If incumbent candidates are subject to the Commission on Judicial Conduct, then non incumbent candidates should be subject to the same rules.
PROPOSITION 5
The constitutional amendment changing the eligibility requirements for a justice of the Supreme Court, a judge of the court of criminal appeals, a justice of a court of appeals, and a district judge.
ORIGIN: SJR47 (Huffman) - Increases the qualification requirements for TX Supreme Court, TX Criminal Court of Appeals and District Court Judges. Supreme and Criminal Court of Appeals – 10 years’ experience; and District Courts – 8 years’ experience.
Julie's comment: Yes - I'm ok with increased experience in our judges and justices
Fran's comment: UNDECIDED - I'm still torn on this one. The way I read it, the requirements for Supreme Court Judges is the same, and the requirement for District Judges changes from 4 years to 8 years. I probably will vote YES, because more experience is better, but I'm still puzzled by this amendment. I'm probably missing something, and I plan to talk to Senator Huffman's office to get a better understanding before I vote.
PROPOSITION 6
The constitutional amendment establishing a right for residents of certain facilities to designate an essential caregiver or in-person visitation.
ORIGIN: SJR19 (Kolkhorst) - Residents of nursing, assisted living, and similar residential facilities have the right to designate an essential caregiver who may not be denied in-person visitation.
Julie's comment: YES - never again should people in nursing homes be abandoned because Governor Abbott says so
Fran's comment: YES - We all saw the devastation that came last year when long term care facility residents were denied access to their family, friends, or any outside non staff interaction. People literally wasted away and died. It's probably one of the worst tragedies of our time. This amendment guarantees the right of every resident to have at least one essential care giver who cannot be denied in person visits.
PROPOSITION 7
The constitutional amendment to allow the surviving spouse of a person who is disabled to receive a limitation on the school district ad valorem taxes on the spouse’s residence homestead if the spouse is 55 years of age or older at the time of the person’s death.
ORIGIN: HJR125 (Ellzey) - Extends the current homestead school tax limit for disabled individuals to surviving spouses who are at least 55 years old and reside at the home.
Julie's comment: YES - I like lowering taxes for anyone and everyone in order to starve the govt. I am not for special carve outs for all widows of the disabled though, because many of them are young and will remarry. Since this specifies you must be 55 or older, I'm ok with it.
Fran's comment: NO - I am generally not in favor of most exemptions because we have too many, and it puts additional burdens on the rest of the tax payers. Rather than starving the government, it puts additional taxes on the rest of the taxpayers. I support exemptions for disabled persons, and some other groups, but surviving spouses should qualify on their own, not have the exemption extended because of their deceased spouse's disability. HOWEVER - property taxes should be eliminated and then we wouldn't be putting these constant band aids on the tax code.
PROPOSITION 8
The constitutional amendment authorizing the Legislature to provide an exemption from ad valorem taxation of all or part of the market value of the residence homestead of the surviving spouse of a member of the armed services of the United States who is killed or fatally injured in the line of duty.
ORIGIN: SJR35 (Campbell) - Expands the current homestead tax exemption to include surviving spouses of service members fatally injured in the line of duty, along with those killed outright.
Julie's comment: NO - I do like lowering taxes for everyone because it gives the govt less money, but I don't see how this group of people should have a special carve out. It's for widows of veterans but doesn't add an age limit. Again, the young will likely remarry.
Fran's comment: NO - for the same reasons stated in Prop 7.
Suggestions for further study: One way to better understand the proposed amendments is to look at the originating legislation (each amendment starts with a bill number in the house or senate and is referenced above). If that doesn’t help you, it’s a good opportunity to talk with the legislator who authored the bill. Contact them or their offices (legislative directors are good people to talk to about this) and ask what was on their minds and the purpose of the legislation. They generally welcome the opportunity to talk about legislation they proposed and brag on it. So, talk to them!
If you need assistance in looking up the origin legislation, contacting the authors of the bills, or contacting your own representative, please let us know. We’re happy to assist and we can show you how to do that.
Email questions to Fran Rhodes, [email protected]
AND DON'T FORGET TO VOTE!
Click here to donate to our cause.
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Message Analysis
- Sender: True Texas Project
- Political Party: n/a
- Country: United States
- State/Locality: Texas
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