TXMPA LOBBY DAY UPDATE
Our Lobby Day was a big success! Thank you to our volunteers and supporters. An estimated 600 people showed up at the State Capitol for the morning rally: coordinated by members of the Austin Alliance. House Bill 873 was heard in committee the day we were there. It was approved with a 9 - 0 vote and then sent to “Calendars” on March 19th. The Senate Bill (SB605) is scheduled to be heard in committee on Monday. We are very optimistic this enabling legislation will pass. Nearly every legislator’s office was visited on TXMPA’s Lobby Day and the feedback from the meetings was very positive.
Those of you who are familiar with how the legislative process works know that this is only half the battle. We need the funding for the legislation to be included in the appropriation bills, HB1/SB1. This is a separate issue from the enabling legislation. In 2005, we experienced the frustration of unfunded legislation and we are commiting ourselves at every level to ensure our incentive is funded come June.
Those of you who are familiar with how the legislative process works know that this is only half the battle. We need the funding for the legislation to be included in the appropriation bills, HB1/SB1. This is a separate issue from the enabling legislation. In 2005, we experienced the frustration of unfunded legislation and we are commiting ourselves at every level to ensure our incentive is funded come June.
Please keep informed by checking our website regularly. We will be asking for help throughout the session with various campaigns. Success depends on a coordinated and cohesive effort. Stay engaged with your TXMPA Regional Representative or any of the TXMPA Board Members.
Your financial support is also needed. When your membership comes up for renewal, please consider this an important contribution to our efforts. If you are a corporate sponsor, please consider renewing at the same level for 2009. Annual dues and sponsorships directly attributed to our ability to provide lunch for the legislators on the Capitol lawn during Lobby Day and allow us to retain the services of a top lobby firm. Please contact us if you have a suggestion for a fundraiser.
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