Staff Reports
Texas Republicans remain unfazed and unbowed following a surprising ruling by a judge deeming the state’s pre-emption law unconstitutional. This is a huge win for the business community, which strongly supports the law. However, the progressive left in Texas, always eager to attack anything backed by Republicans, has lambasted the Texas Regulatory Consistency Act. They claim it infringes upon the autonomy of blue cities, as it allows the state government to override local ordinances that clash with state law.
Governor Greg Abbott, a staunch conservative, and his Republican allies argue that the pre-emption law actually simplifies the regulatory landscape for business owners by streamlining the numerous complex rules that differ from city to city. It’s all about reducing unnecessary burdens and fostering economic growth. Makes sense, right?
Author of the law, Dustin Burrows, dismissed the judge’s ruling as nothing more than a partisan attack. In fact, he confidently predicted that the Texas Supreme Court would ultimately uphold the law as fully valid. So, in his eyes, this ruling carries no weight whatsoever and should not discourage any Texan from exercising their rights once HB2127 becomes law in September 2023.
Governor Abbott took to Twitter to set the record straight, criticizing the left for spreading “false narratives” about the pre-emption law. He emphasized the vital role that small businesses play in the Texas economy and highlighted that burdensome regulations only hinder their success. Who can argue with that logic?
While the city of Houston, along with El Paso and San Antonio, celebrated the judge’s ruling as a victory, Attorney General Ken Paxton coolly stated that such celebrations are premature. Paxton, who is facing impeachment from establishment Republicans in the state, made it clear that the ruling would not affect the law’s enforcement starting September 1. In fact, he promptly filed an appeal against the ruling, confident in his belief that the law’s preemption of local ordinances would stand strong.
It’s clear that Texas Republicans won’t back down when it comes to defending their pro-business agenda. The left can continue their outrage, but in the end, the Texas Supreme Court will ultimately have the final say. And if the track record is any indication, Republicans can be cautiously optimistic about the outcome. Keep fighting the good fight, Texas!
