Texas Speaker Announces Bills to Protect Citizens

Multiple “key legislative priorities” were recently announced by Texas Speaker of the House Dade Phelan (R) for the 88th Texas Legislature.

Speaker Phelan stated, “I am so proud of the hard work that members of the Texas House have already put into these four legislative proposals, which reflect some of the most pressing issues on the minds of Texans today.” 

The bill is a collaborative effort of multiple representatives, and the speaker of the house made sure to share the credit and express his gratitude. 

“These bills are great starting points for our chamber as we work to get them over the finish line this legislative session, and I thank Representatives Capriglione, Rose, Slawson and Howard for their leadership.”

Speaker Phelan’s priorities include 4 bills that aim to protect personal data and lower the costs of essential hygiene items. Furthermore, the bill includes measures that would protect children from the digital dangers of the internet.

Each of the bills was sponsored by a different representative and covered a different issue.

“House Bill 4 by Representative Capriglione (R), also known as the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act, would grant Texans new online rights, including the ability to crack down on how companies collect, and in instances profit from, their personal data.”

“House Bill 12 by Representative Rose (D) would extend Medicaid eligibility to new mothers in Texas to a year after the delivery of their child, significantly increasing the length of time moms can access critical postpartum health coverage.”

“House Bill 18 by Representative Slawson (R), also known as the Securing Children Online through Parental Empowerment (SCOPE) Act, would equip Texas parents with tools to keep their children safe online, including the ability to put a stop to addictive algorithms and prevent companies from collecting private information.”

“House Bill 300 by Representative Howard (D) would exempt, among other essential baby items, diapers and wipes, along with feminine hygiene products from the state’s sales tax, helping to make those items for mothers and families in the state more affordable.”

These bills are focused on making the lives of everyday citizens easier as they target the cost of essential items, as well as the mental and physical well-being of children.