Get the latest on bills we are working on, committee assignments are out, plus read my resolution against the #MuslimBan.
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Flush the Bathroom Bill


A bill to discriminate against the LGBT community is currently sitting in committee. The bill would require trans people to use the bathroom or changing room that corresponds to their "biological sex," rather than the gender with which they identify.

The bill has hurt commerce and tourism in North Carolina, and it would be bad for Texas, as well. Read the full report on the economic impact of discriminatory legislation from the Texas Association of Business online here. 

If it makes it out of committee, I assure you I will be doing my part to "flush the bathroom bill!"

No Texting While Driving Bill


With my daughters alongside me, I signed on as co-author of the "No Texting While Driving" bill on Monday. Texas currently limits the texting and driving of minors and school bus drivers, but studies show the largest population group texting and driving are 21 - 24 year olds. Despite more than 474 deaths and 17,000 injuries in 2015, law enforcement's hands are tied, as there are no laws on this dangerous act.

46 states and over 100 Texas municipalities currently have texting bans in place, and it is time for Texas to put common sense legislation in place that will save lives and allow law enforcement to keep our roads and highways safe. 

Women's March 


I proudly marched in the Dallas Women's March with my daughters on January 21st. 8,000 participated in Dallas, and nearly 3,000,000 participated nationwide. It was wonderful to see so many friends, including Reverend Eric Folkerth and Judge Dennise Garcia (pictured right) at the march! 

HR 220: Resolution Opposing the Muslim Ban


Last Monday, I filed HR 220, a resolution condemning President Trump's Muslim Ban executive order as a discriminating act against Muslims and in violation of the United States constitution. 23 of my colleagues have signed on as co-author. 

Texas Muslim Capitol Day


I was delighted to welcome many of my Muslim constituents and friends to the Capitol on January 31st for Texas Muslim Capitol Day. 

Committee Assignments 

Committee assignments were issued last week, and I am honored to be selected by Speaker Straus to continue serving as Chair of International Trade and Intergovernmental Affairs. I will also serve on the Pensions Committee and the Select Committee on State and Federal Power and Responsibility.

International trade is responsible for 3.1 million jobs in Texas. Over 5 million U.S. jobs depend on trade with Mexico, according to a new report from the Mexico Institute. It will be crucial for Texas to take a stand and advocate for maintaining trade relations with Mexico during this administration. I look forward to serving during this critical time. 

SB4: Sanctuary Cities


Governor Abbott has declared "Sanctuary Cities" an emergency item for the 85th session. Senate Bill 4 seeks to punish local government entities and universities that do not comply with ICE's detainment policy requiring local law enforcement to hold a person in custody while their immigration status is checked. Over 400 people signed up to speak on the bill and more than16 hours of testimony were, with the overwhelming majority being opposed to SB 4. The bill was voted out of committee in a 7 - 2 partisan vote. 

You can monitor the status of this bill and others via the Texas House of Representatives' website.
Press Conference: Mexican American Legislative Caucus on Sanctuary Cities - January 25, 2017
Legislators and faith leaders joined together to speak out against targeting Sanctuary Cities.

Report Card on the Governor's State of the State Address Shows We Have Work To Do

Last week Governor Abbott delivered the State of the State address. The following day, the Mexican American Legislative Caucus (MALC), of which I am chair, released their report card for the Governor's speech (see below).

I call on Governor Abbott to focus on issues that unite us, not divide us. Texans are looking to us to help create good-paying jobs, support quality public education, improve healthcare outcomes, and keep our promises to our veterans. While we give Governor Abbott high marks for his support on CPS and pre-K, the rest of his agenda leaves much needed room for improvement. However, we are hopeful that Governor Abbott will work with MALC to build a long-term vision for Texas families rather than focus on issues that seek to divide us.

Community College Day


It was great to have so many representatives from Mountain View College and North Lake College visit my capitol office on Community College Day on Tuesday! 

Oak Cliff Chamber of Commerce Awards


I enjoyed emceeing the annual Oak Cliff Chamber's "Spotlighting the Cliff" Awards! It is always great to celebrate the successes of my community, and The Kessler Theater is a wonderful venue! Thanks to the Oak Cliff Chamber of Commerce for inviting me, and congratulations to the winners! 

Mardi Gras Oak Cliff Parade


The annual Mardi Gras Oak Cliff parade is Sunday, February 26th! I'm a proud sponsor and enjoy being in the parade each year. Join us on West Davis Street at 4 p.m. a week from Sunday! 

Team Anchia


If you need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to my staff! Our District Office phone number is (214) 943-6081, and our phone number at the Capitol is (512) 463-0746. 
  • Liz Zornes - Chief of Staff
  • Abel Mulugheta - General Counsel and Legislative Director
  • Ana Reyes - District Director
  • Jeff Madden - International Trade and Intergovernmental Affairs Committee Director
  • Kat Mendiola - Legislative Aide
  • Andrea Ojeda - Legislative Aide 
  • Laurie Roberts - Legislative Aide
 

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Copyright © 2017 Rafael Anchia Campaign, All rights reserved.


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