Welcome to the LWV of the Austin Area's Weekly VOTER
The VOTER newsletter is taking a break in August, but the Weekly VOTER is here to make sure you stay in the know!
Let's Talk About HB 4
Governor Abbott has made redistricting part of the call for the current special session of the Texas Legislature. The goal of this very rare mid-decade redistricting is to create five more Republican-leaning districts before the 2026 midterms. The Legislature held public hearings over five days and in spite of short notice, large numbers of Texans showed up in person and online, providing testimony that was uniformly opposed to the process. Less than a day after the last hearing, HB 4 was filed with new maps that ignored public input.
Learn more about HB 4 in this article from the Texas Tribune. Encourage your state representatives to oppose this bill. The "Take Action" page on the LWV Texas website makes it easy!
Looking for Events to Help You Stay Informed?
The LWVAA calendar is here to help!
- August 5: Zoom in to attend the Brennan Center's panel on The Rise of the Imperial Presidency -- historians and legal experts will examine the modern presidency and the origins of the unitary executive theory and its implications for the future of checks and balances.
- August 5: LWVAA will be enjoying the music and registering voters during the Hillside Concert Series at Pan Am Neighborhood Park.
- August 6: Attend the D10 Budget Town Hall and Resource Fair hosted by Council Member Marc Duchen. Texas State Senator Sarah Eckhardt will give an update about state legislative issues.
- August 8: Register voters at the Alamo Drafthouse South Lamar. Sign up here.
LWVUS News
- Watch for updated Unite and Rise actions from LWVUS and LWVAA beginning in August.
- Get involved! There are many ways to have your voice heard by elected officials and policy makers. Take action on League priorities today!
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