Why Vote on Proposition Joke

 Why Vote on Proposition Joke

By: Texans Against the Flow

  

    So as you may already know, we have a fast approaching election in Texas on Nov. 2, 2021. Crazy how these things creep in amongst the surreal news headlining COVID-19 these days. But registered voters of Texas should be aware that legislation is trying to pass 8 proposed changes to the state constitution. Even though there are no state elected seats on the ticket this month, we should be ever vigilant as good citizens to get out and vote. Early voting starts on October 18th and goes to October 29th.

So here's a list of the 8 Propositions that will be on the ballot:

Proposition 1: Rodeo Raffles

So pretty much gambling is still illegal at rodeos, but raffles will be considered legal as long as an authorized professional sports team does it for a charitable organization.

This will make opportunities available for medical research, schools throughout Texas, and youth programs.

This is also pretty much an extension of an already existing law benefitting the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association.

   Proposition 2: Tax Financing for County Infrastructure

Gives counties the ability to issue bonds for poorer neighborhood's infrastructure.

Counties will repay these bonds by increasing property tax revenue.

This proposal cannot be spent on toll roads construction.

Proposition 3: Restrictions on Religious Services

Makes it so the state or any political subdivision cannot limit a religious service or organization from doing what they normally do during a pandemic or any other trying times.

It could be dangerous because this proposition is kinda vague in regards the governments evolvement during emergencies.

Probably the hottest bill on the ticket. Separation of church and state. Brought up because of COVID-19.

Proposition 4: State Judge Eligibility

Changes the eligibility status for certain judicial offices.

Would require 10 years of experience practicing law in Texas (instead of out-of-state) for eligibility to the Texas Supreme Court.

To be a district judge, you would need 8 years of law practice, instead of four years.

May cause a shortage of good candidates running for judgeship.

Proposition 5: Judicial Misconduct Process

Will allow State Commission on Judicial Conduct instead of an independent agency to look into candidates running for judicial seats.

More oversight for future judges in Texas.

Proposition 6: Essential Caregiver Designation

Brought up because of COVID-19.

Will make it so residents of nursing homes can designate at least one caregiver to visit the resident without prohibitions.

If this bill passes, further guidelines will be made for the caregivers.

Proposition 7: Property Tax Exemptions for Bereaved Families

Are you over 55 and the survivor of a spouse older than 65, with disabilities, and has passed away?
If so, then you will pay less school district property taxes.

May potentially lower funding for school districts

Proposition 8: Property Tax Exemptions for Military Families

Expands the eligibility for spouses of who have had their military partner die in the line of duty instead of killed in action for the residential homestead tax exemptions.

Would include spouses in vehicular accidents or non combative situations.

    Voting is our right and privilege and should be protected at all costs. Even as most of us struggle to make it through another year of hardships brought about by a worldwide pandemic, we should strive to ensure our state keeps on the right track. Though it seems to be an off year for elections, the Texas legislature is currently trying to amend the state constitution by slipping eight propositions that will mostly benefit corporations and the wealthy. But everyone who is registered in Texas can make a difference. Each individual is seen as an element of a social network, within which pairs of individuals express ideas and attitudes, exerting mutual influence (de Matos). But do not just scam over the information though, research further and form your own opinion towards how you will respond to these proposed amendments to the state constitution.

    Get out there and make a real difference this November. Early voting starts on October 18th and goes all the way to October 29th. Some individuals vote because they are motivated by a civic duty to do so, whereas others may vote because they wish to appear prosocial to others (Ali).  These propositions may not affect you personally, but they will affect some of your fellow Texans in a very meaningful way. Is it not an honor and duty to make sure our voices are heard through voting?

    And lastly I would like for you to consider these two questions:

Does voting really make a difference?

and 

Were you even familiar with the upcoming election on November 2nd?

Works Cited:

    Ali, S. Nageeb, and Charles Lin. “Why People Vote: Ethical Motives and Social Incentives.” American Economic Journal: Microeconomics, vol. 5, no. 2, American Economic Association, 2013, pp. 73–98, http://www.jstor.org/stable/43189921.

    de Matos, João Amaro, and Pedro P. Barros. “Social Norms and the Paradox of Elections’ Turnout.” Public Choice, vol. 121, no. 1/2, Springer, 2004, pp. 239–55, http://www.jstor.org/stable/30026519.