The 87th Texas Regular Legislative Session took place in an environment like no other in recent memory. At a time when Texans needed relief from the dual crises of the crippling COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing fallout from the energy grid failure earlier this year, many of the legislative priorities from the governor and lieutenant governor focused on voter suppression, white-washing school curriculums, and proliferating guns in our communities. These priorities represented real threats to communities of color and democracy. Limited access to the Capitol and virtual testimony shaped a session where public input and accountability to constituents were in short supply. Despite these challenges, Every Texan staff worked with lawmakers and partners to pass some good legislation and block a number of bad bills.
The 87th Legislature presented unprecedented challenges for Texans to access the Capitol and have their voices heard. Every Texan created a space for partner organizations to come together to share intel, discuss advocacy efforts, and pursue potential litigation. We also worked with everyday Texans to ensure they had as many opportunities as possible to make their voices heard by the Legislature.