Texas HB2 - Opposed

An Open Letter to the Texas House of Representative's State Affairs Committee

As narrow-minded, religiously controlled politicians (mostly Republican) continue to violate the very basis of freedom, many have gathered to show opposition to extremely limiting bills that will force the closure of access for many women in rural areas of Texas.  Media may portray this as an abortion rights issue, but the fact is that this IS a human rights issue, a Women's rights issue, and a Religious issue!  The authors of HB2 are women, which is amazing considering the heavy price women have paid to achieve equal standing and the right to choice, irregardless of religious convictions.

Not being able to be present at the committee hearing today at the Texas State Capital in Austin, I did compose my response and emailed it to every committee member, although experience has shown that few politicians actually consider the views of the people and show a total disregard for the communications sent to them, well, unless such is joined with a large campaign contribution.

Here is my response to the House Bill 2 - HB2

Authors: Laubenberg | Burkett | Harper-Brown | Greg Bonnen
Coauthors: Frullo | Rick Miller | Simmons | White

May I begin by stating that as a man, a registered Republican, and as a former Southern Baptist preacher that I, by pure logical reason, have to call into question the motives and reasoning of the current legislation being presented as HB2. 

Over the last many years, elected officials, such as the authors of this bill, have completely disregarded the desires and direction of the people they represent, calling into question whether they are capable and reliable to effectively represent.  The State Affairs Committee hearing regarding this potentially damaging legislation is being held today, and as I cannot be present in person, I am writing this via email to show due cause for the cessation of this bill and to request that you personally ensure that this bill isn't allowed to continue. 

If this bill was truly in the interest of the public, then it would be widely supported by the voters of Texas, which it isn't based upon a recent poll by Greenberg Quinlan Rosner Research - "A majority of Texans oppose the legislation currently being considered by the legislature that imposes restrictions on abortion and 80 percent do not want abortion to be raised during the special session of the legislature called at the end of May by Governor Rick Perry." 

The bill states, "the state has a compelling state interest" which is not the case, as the state has no interest in governing the rights already obtained by women - the right to choice, which was established via Roe vs. Wade. 

"does not impose an undue burden or a substantial obstacle..."  This bill does in fact cause undue burden and substantial obstacles by forcing the closure of many rural facilities that allow lower income and those that are challenged by location/transportation easy access. 

"is located not further than 30 miles from the location..."  Such a limitation is cause enough for cessation, as most rural towns do not have hospitals and furthermore, most even lack more than a general physician. 

Further from the point of the mere act of Governor Perry calling an expensive Special Session, "Eight in ten voters agree that the special session should be focused on issues like "education, jobs, and economy instead of bringing up social issues like abortion; 71 percent think that the Governor and the legislature should spend less time passing laws restricting abortion." 

Responsible government doesn't seek to limit the rights of its people, it does provide for the freedom and liberties and ensures such.  The Texas House of Representatives is dangerously allowing the future of the failure of a democracy.  Adolf Hitler once commented, "The National Government will regard it as its first and foremost duty to revive in the nation the spirit of unity and cooperation. It will preserve and defend those basic principles on which our nation has been built. It regards Christianity as the foundation of our national morality, and the family as the basis of national life."  History has clearly shown the downfalls of government attempting to legislate moral issues and to elevate a particular religious view over others.  Will your participation in this bill be marked throughout history as the very stepping stone that allowed the demise of democracy and the very freedoms it is built upon?

Finally, in the words of Thomas Jefferson, "Nothing can be more exactly and seriously true than what is there [the very words only of Jesus] stated; that but a short time elapsed after the death of the great reformer of the Jewish religion, before his principles were departed from by those who professed to be his special servants, and perverted into an engine for enslaving mankind, and aggrandising their oppressors in Church and State; that the purest system of morals ever before preached to man, has been adulterated and sophisticated by artificial constructions, into a mere contrivance to filch wealth and power to themselves; that rational men not being able to swallow their impious heresies, in order to force them down their throats, they raise the hue and cry of infidelity, while themselves are the greatest obstacles to the advancement of the real doctrines of Jesus, and do in fact constitute the real Anti-Christ." 

Our country was founded on freedom from religious persecution, and this bill is itself a form of religious persecution, as it raises into law one religions ideals of morality and ignores the very fact of allowing individual choice, freedom, and rights.  Therefore, I encourage you to not allow yourselves to be entangled by such and to instead show support for such as is right, fair, and just by not allowing this bill to continue on any level or derivation. 

Signed:  Sebastian Barrett St.Troy

Yes, I do Stand with Texas Women and fully support their rights, shouldn't you?  Yes, I'm a proud Texan, an active Voter, and I am very ashamed of Governor Rick Perry (who should address his own 'sins' of not being forthright and honest about his sexual orientation) and the politicians supporting this legislation, especially considering the fact that Perry's Special Session is costing Texas taxpayers millions, which should be spent on education, improved infrastructure, and public transportation!

Establishing ReCall Elections in the State of Texas

Establishing Recall Elections

in the State of Texas

Texas is one of many states that do not allow Recall Elections, except in "Home Rule" or "Charter Cities" and then only limited by the constraints of the city's Charter.  With the increase of career politicians who do not effectively represent their constituents and the overwhelming dissatisfaction with the performances of our elected officials, it is time that Texas had a State Recall mandate and law.  It is to that end that this article is being written.  You are hereby encouraged to work together with me to begin the process that will hold elected officials accountable to the people, not corporations or big donors.  Please respond with comments and suggestions that will assist in achieving our intention and I'll gather everything together and send the comments to Donna Howard, State Representative, District 48, Austin, Texas.

Late last year, in 2011, I sent a letter to my State Representative, Donna Howard, District 48, in Austin, Texas, inquiring about how to proceed to alter the Texas Constitution to allow for ReCall Elections of State Elected officials.

Here is the response I received from the Honorable Donna Howard, State Representative, District 48, Austin, Texas:

Dear Mr. St.Troy;
Thank you for contacting me with your question about how to change Texas law to allow for recall elections for state and federal officials.  You are among the nearly 162,000 people I represent, and I apologize for my delayed response. 

You may be aware that the Texas Legislature meets for 140 days at the beginning of each odd-numbered year.  Outside that period, we may only convene at the request of the Governor to consider issues that he places on the agenda.  So, the Legislature will not meet again until January 2013 unless Governor Perry calls a special session.  That means you have plenty of time to plan and think about the type of legislation you would like to see since legislators may not begin filing bills until after the next general election in November 2012. 

I usually begin to research my legislative agenda during this interim period between sessions, but I do not finalize my legislative package until after I know whether or not I have won re-election.  In the mean-time, I have attached a list of questions that I would consider when deciding what to include in a bill authorizing recall elections.  You can also contact my Chief of Staff, Elanor D'Ambrosio, with any other specific questions about the legislative process. 

I would also encourage you to contact your Congressman, the Honorable Michael McCaul, with your inquiry, I do not believe that an individual state may pass a law allowing for the recall of a federal official, and his office will be better equipped to explain the steps necessary to enact this type of policy at the federal level.  I have included Congressman McCaul's contact information below. 

Thank you again for taking the time to share your thoughts with me.,  If I can be of any further assistance, please do not hesistate to contact my office 512-463-0631. 

Sincerely,
Donna Howard 

Austin District Office:
5929 Balcones Dr., Ste. 305
Austin, TX  78731
512-473-2357 

Washington DC Office:
131 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, DC  20515
202-225-2401

This is the attachment she included with her letter asking questions about creating a recall election for the State of Texas (My comments are included in Red and have been emailed to the Honorable Donna Howard) :


1. Can the recall election be initiated only on specific grounds - for example, conviction of certain felony offenses - or should the law include some sort of statement indicating that grounds for a recall can be political rather than judicial in nature?  A Recall election can be initiated on grounds of suspicion of illegal acts, constituent disapproval, or any grounds that are reasonable and customary in accordance with state laws.

2. Which elected officials will the recall provision apply to?  The recall provision should apply to ANY elected OR appointed official within City, County or State government, including judiciary representatives.

3. Who should be elgible to sign the recall petition?  Should this right be limited only to those who live in the district of the official being recalled?  (This would not apply to statewide officials.)  Any Registered Voter within the selected City or County OR any Registered Voter in the State of Texas for State officials.

4. How many signatures should be required on a petition for a recall?  Should the number have some relationship to the number of people who actually voted in the last election for the office being recalled, should it relate to the number of people who are registered and elgible to vote for that office, etc.?  A minimum of 20% of Registered Voters should be required to initiate a recall election.

5. How long should the petitioner have to gather signatures and when can a petition be submitted?  (This could vary since the house members run every two years and state senators run every four years.)  A petitioner should be granted 3 months to obtain the required number of signatures to be submitted.  The recall petition should be allowed to be presented at any time regardless of election year or the time of session.

6. Who will pay for the recall election?  The counties in which the recall election is being held or the state?  For City recalls, that city shall be responsible.  For County recalls, that County shall be responsible.  For State recalls, then the State of Texas shall be responsible.  For any recall that affects a City, County and/or State together, then the costs should be allocated proportionately.

7. How will the recall election be conducted?  Should the recall election be held simultaneously with the election for a successor?  Should the election for a successor be separate?  Should the successor be appointed instead of elected?  After the recall has been initiated and the appropriate signatures obtain and the petition submitted to the governing authority, then the successor should be voted for at the same time of the recall election in order to save costs for further elections.  A successor should never be appointed.



For a List of Contacts for Home Rule Cities, please click on the link.

For more information on Home Rule Charters, please click on the link.

In 1994, the Texas Municipal League published a comprehensive book (authored by Terrell Blodgett) on Texas home rule charters.  The recently updated book provides a comprehensive review of the origin, evolution, current status, and analyses regarding the now 351 home rule charters in the state. In addition to tracing the historical development of charters, the book offers a current overview of the application and impact of state and federal laws on writing and amending charters.  You can order the book in various formats online by clicking here.


For further reading, AN ANALYSIS OF TEXAS' MUNICIPAL HOME RULE CHARTERS SINCE 1994 by John V. McDonald

For a List of Texas State Senators, click on the link.

Be an informed Voter, Project Vote Smart

Who is Your Representative?

Know what is happening in Congress - OpenCongress

What is happening in the Texas State Legislature?  Texas Legislature Online

Getting to Zero: World AIDS Day 2011

Getting to Zero:  World AIDS Day 2011

Red is one of the common colors seen in  December, however, on December 1st every year, the color red takes on a new meaning.  Red is the color of the AIDS Ribbon, which will be prominently displayed on Thursday, December 1st, as today is World AIDS Day.  The theme for World AIDS Day 2011 is "Getting to Zero." After 30 years of the global fight against HIV/AIDS, this year the focus is on achieving 3 targets: Zero new HIV infections. Zero discrimination. Zero AIDS-related deaths.

On the first of December, World AIDS Day is celebrated.  This day is an opportunity for people to unite in the fight against HIV/AIDS, to remember those who have died of the disease and to celebrate accomplishments, such as increased access to treatment and prevention services.  This day is an opportunity to take action and to show your support for the 33.3* million people worldwide living with HIV/AIDS.

Today, despite advances in HIV treatment and in laws designed to protect those living with HIV; many people do not know the facts about how to protect themselves and others from HIV or about the stigma and discrimination that remain a reality for many people living with HIV.  World AIDS Day is an important reminder to individuals and governments that HIV has not gone away – there is still a vital need to raise money, increase awareness, fight prejudice and improve education.

People around the globe will participate in various events to celebrate life, to begin conversations, to show support, and to honor those that have died.  Such as Facing AIDS - "you and your community can help reduce stigma and promote HIV testing by putting a face to AIDS."


*As of 2009, 33.3 million people worldwide were living with HIV/AIDS and of those, 1,178,350 are living in the United States.

Another nationwide project is the Road to AIDS 2012, which "is a nationwide tour that will engage communities on the National HIV/AIDS Strategy and ensure community voices are heard in the development of a domestic platform for the XIX International AIDS Conference (AIDS 2012).  The Urban Coalition for HIV/AIDS Prevention Services and Community Education Group are working with the International AIDS Society, convener of AIDS 2012, to increase participation of local communities in the 15 U.S. cities most adversely impacted by HIV."

2011's Theme is Getting to Zero

"World AIDS Day was first conceived in August 1987 by James W. Bunn and Thomas Netter, two public information officers for the Global Programme on AIDS at the World Health Organization in Geneva, Switzerland.  Bunn and Netter took their idea to Dr. Jonathan Mann, Director of the Global Programme on AIDS (now known as UNAIDS).  Dr. Mann liked the concept, approved it, and agreed with the recommendation that the first observance of World AIDS Day should be 1 December, 1988.  In its first two years, the theme of World AIDS Day focused on children and young people. These themes were strongly criticized at the time for ignoring the fact that people of all ages may become infected with HIV and suffer from AIDS.  But the themes drew attention to the HIV/AIDS epidemic, helped alleviate some of the stigma surrounding the disease, and helped boost recognition of the problem as a family disease."  Taken from Wikipedia

Some Facts about HIV/AIDS

• Nearly 1.2 million people are living with HIV in the U.S. (an estimated 1,178,350 adults and adolescents), and one in 
• five of those (20 percent) are unaware of their infections.  Despite increases in the total number of people living with HIV in the U.S. in recent years, the annual number of new infections has remained relatively stable overall.
• However, HIV infections continue at far too high a level, with approximately 50,000 Americans becoming newly infected with HIV each year.
• More than 16,000 people with AIDS still die each year in the U.S.
• MSM (Men Who Have Sex With Men) represent just 2 percent of the U.S. population, but account for 61 percent of all new HIV infections in the U.S. each year, as well as nearly half of people living with HIV (49 percent).
• Individuals infected through heterosexual contact account for 27 percent of annual new HIV infections and 28 percent of people living with HIV.
• While blacks represent approximately 14 percent of the U.S. population, the latest CDC estimates show that they account for almost half of people living with HIV in the U.S. (46 percent), as well as nearly half of new infections each year (44 percent).
• Hispanics represent approximately 16 percent of the population and the latest CDC estimates show that they account for more than 17 percent of people living with HIV in the U.S., as well as 20 percent of new infections each year.
• Read more facts from the CDC-HIV+AIDS in America

Why "Getting to Zero?"

This years theme for World AIDS Day is Getting to Zero, as mentioned about, and puts the focus on the need to prevent the spread of the HIV virus, to prevent discrimination of those with HIV/AIDS, and to reach zero deaths by HIV/AIDS.

It is estimated that 33.3 million people have HIV worldwide, with 1.2 million persons who are living with HIV in the United States, according to the Center of Disease Control (CDC) estimates.  This number is expected to continue to increase over time, as advances in treatments prolong the lives of those who are infected and more people become infected with HIV each year. Despite increases in the total number of people in the U.S. living with HIV infection in recent years, the annual number of new HIV infections has remained relatively stable. However, new infections continue at far too high of a level, with approximately 50,000 Americans becoming infected with HIV each year.  Worldwide, the rate of new infections, or incidence, has decreased. In 33 countries, the incidence has decreased more than 25 percent since 2001, including countries in the hardest hit areas of sub-Saharan Africa.

The CDC estimates that one in five people living with HIV in the U.S. are unaware of their infection.  This highlights the importance of reaching all infected individuals with HIV testing and prevention services. HIV can be transmitted in three main ways: sexual transmission; transmission through blood; and mother-to-child transmission.  These three routes of transmission work in tandem to affect segments of the population.  The number of infections resulting from each route will vary greatly between countries and population groups. HIV counseling and testing are fundamental for HIV prevention, as is access to essential commodities such as condoms or sterile injecting equipment.

According to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon, "Stigma remains the single most important barrier to public action. It is a main reason why too many people are afraid to see a doctor to determine whether they have the disease, or to seek treatment if so. It helps make AIDS the silent killer, because people fear the social disgrace of speaking about it, or taking easily available precautions. Stigma is a chief reason why the AIDS epidemic continues to devastate societies around the world."

Discrimination against those infected with HIV/AIDS includes both the fear of getting the disease and also negative assumptions about people who are infected.  AIDS-related stigma has had a profound effect on the epidemic’s course. The World Health Organization cites fear of stigma and discrimination as the main reason why people are reluctant to be tested, to disclose their HIV status or to take antiretroviral drugs.

"We can fight stigma. Enlightened laws and policies are key. But it begins with openness, the courage to speak out. Schools should teach respect and understanding. Religious leaders should preach tolerance. The media should condemn prejudice and use its influence to advance social change, from securing legal protections to ensuring access to health care." Ban Ki-moon, Secretary-General of the United Nations.

More than 25 million people between 1981 and 2007 have died from the virus worldwide, making it one of the most destructive pandemics in history.  In the US, nearly 594,500 people with AIDS in the US have died since the epidemic began. 

The goal of ‘Zero AIDS Related Deaths’ signifies an increased access to available treatments for all those infected.  Currently, only one third of the 15 million people living with HIV worldwide who are in need of life long treatment are receiving it. Universal access to antiretroviral treatments for those living with HIV will not only decrease the number of AIDS related deaths, but will increase the quality of life among those infected and decrease transmission.

World AIDS Day is an opportunity for all of us to learn the facts about HIV. By increasing the understanding of how HIV is transmitted, how it can be prevented, and the reality of living with HIV today-we can use this knowledge to take care of our own health and the health of others.

For more facts about HIV/AIDS, please visit the CDC website and here are some websites that list the various events in Austin, Texas

List of events in Austin

http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/hivstd/news/default.shtm

http://austinhiv.com/free-hiv-ceu

Staying informed and educated is only a start, to help us in Getting to Zero, you also have to get tested.  Here's where you can find service providers offering HIV Testing and a list of AIDS Service Organizations, such as AIDS Services Austin.

Find Services and Testing

All Dried Up? Ways to Survive the Texas Drought

We've all heard that Texas is in the grips of a severe drought and that people and wildlife are having a hard time as a result.


While we can't control the weather, there are things that we can do everyday in our homes and businesses to help conserve water and ensure there is enough for people and the environment during these dry times.


We have assembled some of our favorite tips below. Every drop of water saved is important and with no end in sight for this drought, it is necessary. It all comes down to using only what you need!


Top 10 Tips to Conserve Water:

• Only run the dishwasher or washing machine with a full load. If it is time to replace either of these appliances, check in with your utility about rebates for water-conserving versions and purchase those instead.
• Water your lawn on the right day. Are you odd or even? Most Texas cities restrict outdoor water use to one or two days a week during times of drought. Save water and avoid fines by learning and following your city's schedule.
• Catch the condensation from your AC unit and use it in your yard. Depending on how your air conditioner is programmed, it can produce gallons of water per day. Catch that water in a bucket and put it on your garden, shrubs, and trees.
• Turn the water off when you brush your teeth. This simple step can save up to eight gallons of water per day.
• Fix leaky faucets. Leaky faucets can waste up to 7 gallons of water per day. To check for leaks at home, read your water meter and avoid using water for 2 hours. Read the meter again after this period.  If the amount is different you have a leak.
• Fix running toilets. Running toilets can waste a lot of water.  Fix these leaks as soon as you find them. Check with the manufacturer of your toilet for the proper replacement "flapper" to ensure maximum efficiency.
• Inspect your irrigation system. Have your system inspected by your water utility or a certified irrigator to make sure it is operating correctly, identify any problems, and help you set it to run more efficiently. Many cities offer free inspections.
• Install faucet aerators and low-flow shower heads. These water saving devices are cheap and easy to install. Many utilities give them away to their customers. Check with your utility and pick up a few extras to share with your neighbors!
• Install a high efficiency toilet. Toilets account for about 25% of water used in the home. Depending on the age of your toilet, you can save up to 5 gallons per flush by replacing older models. Check with your city for possible rebates.
• Make water conservation a whole-family activity. Challenge your family members to think of new ways to save water and to be part of the solution.

This list is by no means exhaustive; there are plenty more things that you can do to conserve water.  Find out what works for you and go for it!  Check out the links below for more ideas or sign up to receive up to date information about water issues in Texas by clicking here.


Thanks,
Jennifer Walker
Water Resources Specialist
Lone Star Chapter, Sierra Club
Please help us spread the word and save even more water by sharing this information with your friends and neighbors. You can also share this message with your social networks, it is easy with these handy links:



Want to learn more about water conservation?


Water Saving Tips for our Yard or Garden:
http://www.texaswatermatters.org/pdfs/articles/making_every_drop_count.pdf


Water IQ:  Know Your Water:  http://www.wateriq.org/apps/wateriq/default.aspx


100 Ways to Conserve Water:
http://www.wateruseitwisely.com/100-ways-to-conserve/index.php


Want to learn more about the Drought?


State Drought Monitor:  http://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/DM_state.htm?TX,S


Office of the State Climatologist:  http://atmo.tamu.edu/osc/ 


National Drought Mitigation Center (Drought Basics):  http://www.drought.unl.edu/DroughtBasics.aspx