FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 7, 2023
CONTACT: Emily Witt (she/hers), [email protected]
AUSTIN, Texas – The Texas Legislature today adjourned sine die, bringing the third special legislative session of 2023 to a close.
This special session was called to legislate on voucher programs and anti-immigration policies, two priorities for Governor Abbott’s administration that failed to gain the necessary legislative support to become law during the regular 88th session.
Texas Freedom Network Interim Political Director Rocío Fierro-Pérez (she/her/ella) issued the following response:
“As the Texas Legislature adjourns sine die, we bear witness to the culmination of a special session marred by brazen attempts to undermine our public education system, and when those failed, to further criminalize immigrants in our communities. State Republicans’ fixation on dismantling our public education through voucher schemes has not only failed but has exposed a blatant disregard for the future of all Texas children. The pursuit of vouchers is a direct attack on the promise we make to our youth—that no matter their family’s income or background, they have the right to achieve their dreams through the power of public education.
“Governor Abbott’s obstinate push for vouchers has been a misguided quest that thankfully floundered in the face of resistance from those who understand the harm that would befall Texas children. But let it be known, the callous pivot to xenophobic anti-immigration bills is not just a desperate bid for political redemption; it is a calculated, cruel distraction.
“The Texas Freedom Network remains unwavering in the belief that every child, regardless of the color of their skin, the zip code they live in, or if their parents are LGBTQIA+, deserves access to a quality public education. An education that is not auctioned off to the highest bidder, but is fortified by our collective investment, and protected as the public good it truly is. We must continue to call out and combat any actions that threaten our neighbors—whether they are attacks on our border and immigrant communities or attacks on the right of Texas children to build their futures through public education.”
Governor Abbott is expected to call a fourth special session immediately, with social media posts sharing communication from the House Speaker already calling members back at 5 pm CT today. This session could potentially coincide with the Thanksgiving holiday—forcing legislators and their staff members to spend this time away from their families and at the Capitol.
