In the wake of the 24th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks that stole almost 3,000 American lives, we reflect on the selfless courage of the first responders who rushed into harm’s way to save countless others. Though we mourn the fearless men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice that solemn September morning, we reaffirm our gratitude to all of the brave men and women who wear the uniform and badge today. Together, we can reclaim the spirit and unity that followed 9/11 and honor those who lost their lives. God bless their sacrifice; God bless their memory; and may God continue to bless the United States of America.
With that, here’s an update from your State Capitol…
Capitol Update
With the conclusion of the 2nd Special Session of the 89th Legislature, we will begin to examine the 17 constitutional amendments passed by the Legislature during the 89th Legislative Session that will be voted on during the November 4th Legislative Session. Recently, the Secretary of State’s Office drew the ballot order for the 17 proposed constitutional amendments, and this week, we will examine Propositions 1 & 2.
Proposition 1 proposes an amendment creating the permanent technical institution infrastructure fund and the available workforce education fund to provide a dedicated source of funding for the Texas State Technical College System, the statewide system of campuses that provide vocational education. Income from the fund would be available each year, to support and grow TSTC campuses. I was proud to support the legislation that created this amendment, and I look forward to supporting it on the November ballot.
Proposition 2 proposes an amendment prohibiting the legislature from taxing the realized or unrealized capital gains of an individual, family, estate, or trust. Our constitution currently prohibits a personal income tax, but there is no explicit prohibition against a tax on capital gains. Therefore, without the amendment, a future legislature could potentially enact a tax on capital gains, which could significantly impact Texas’s pro business environment. I was also proud to support the legislation that created this amendment, and I look forward to supporting it on the November ballot.
The mobile office is still on the road this month, and our District Director looks forward to seeing you on September 17 at the Houston County Courthouse Annex in Crockett from 9:30-11:30am, or at the Trinity County Courthouse in Groveton from 1:30-3:30pm.
As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office if we can help you in any way. My district office may be reached at (936) 634-2762 and our Capitol office at (512) 463-0508. Additionally, I welcome you to follow along on my Official Facebook Page, where I will post regular updates on what’s happening in your State Capitol and share information that could be useful to you and your family: https://www.facebook.com/RepTrentAshby/.
