Texas Judge Maya Guerra Gamble declared the highly controversial House Bill 2127 unconstitutional.
The bill, also known as the “Death Star” bill, would have prevented cities and counties from regulating eight major areas of government without first getting approval from the Texas Legislature, which only meets every other year.
The major areas affected would have included agriculture, business and commerce, finance, insurance, labor, natural resources, occupations and property.
San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg celebrated the recent ruling.
“This is a win for democracy,” said Mayor Nirenberg.
“The ruling is a critical step toward ensuring Texas cities and their respective residents maintain their ability to govern themselves.”
Nirenberg continued by stating how he expected those opposed to the ruling on HB 2127 to appeal.
“The Governor and state Legislature will undoubtedly continue their attempts to thwart local control, but San Antonio will stay vigilant in its fight to protect the voice and power of our residents. I also want to express gratitude for the members of our state delegation who supported local self-governance.”
City Attorney Andy Segovia expressed his thoughts on the bill’s true intentions.
“San Antonio’s local elected officials best represent their constituents,” said Segovia.
“The unconstitutionally vague language in House Bill 2127 sought to strip the power of self-government from home-rule cities and made it impossible to understand which specific city ordinances may conflict with state statutes. The ruling is a victory for San Antonio and all cities across the State of Texas.”
The two San Antonio officials were joined by Texas Representative Greg Casar (D).
“A judge just ruled #HB2127 unconstitutional. Texans already knew this law — designed to block worker protections like the right to a water break — was dangerous & wrong,” said Rep. Casar.
“This good ruling will likely be appealed. I’ll continue to fight for workers at every level of government.”
A judge just ruled #HB2127 unconstitutional.
Texans already knew this law — designed to block worker protections like the right to a water break — was dangerous & wrong.
This good ruling will likely be appealed. I’ll continue to fight for workers at every level of government.
— Congressman Greg Casar (@RepCasar) August 30, 2023
In other news, the bond for former president Donald Trump (R) has been set at $200,000.
Trump was recently indicted for the fourth time for his efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election.
The specific charges District Attorney Fani Willis charged the former president and 18 allies with include racketeering. They face several allegations such as attempting to alter voting machines.
