Aug
27
Human Trafficking Bill Signing
On August 20th, the Christian Life Commission was invited to be present at the bill signing ceremony of landmark Human Trafficking legislation. Such invitations are often based on the work of advocates in pursuing passage of the bill. The CLC strongly supported these bills and worked to make sure both legislators and Texas Baptists understood how important the legislation was in fighting Human Trafficking in this state. We are honored that the Governor recognized our efforts and extended the invitation. We especially want to thank and commend our legislative consultant, Shelton Green, on his efforts. Shelton has since gone on to further work and advocacy on behalf of human trafficking victims, check out http://whatsyourresponse.com and this article to see what he’s been up to recently.
To read more about the bill, including quotes from Suzii Paynter see this article from The Baptist Standard.
Proposed Texas Lottery Rule
Last week, the CLC sent out a public policy alert regarding some proposed rule changes at the Texas Lottery Commission that would allow electronic instant printed games. The CLC opposes this rule change in part because it would create a computer system very similar to those used by Video Lottery Terminal slot machines. While the public comment period at the Lottery Commission has now closed, you may still contact your elected officials and urge them to oppose this rule.
National Health Care Reform
The attention of the nation is certainly tuned to Washington and the debate surrounding national health care reform. The debate has generated much heat and little light lately. During this August recess many members of Congress are holding town hall meetings and conference calls. The CLC encourages you to learn about the key elements of proposed reform, to consult various factual sources both those in favor and opposed to current proposals and engage the issue in a civil manner remembering our call to Christian humility. If you feel strongly please find out what your elected officials are doing about the issue and attend town halls and let your voice be heard.
There are two important things to keep in mind. First, almost all participants agree some sort of change is necessary. Current trends in costs and number of uninsured mean the current system will likely be unsustainable in the long term. Most disagreement centers around what reform should look like. Second, the current version of the bill in congress will not be the final version that is passed. Both the Senate and House versions of the reform bills have a long way to go with many changes and amendments to come. While we should pay close attention to content of all bills, we should be careful not to base support or opposition for the legislation on single sections that may not survive the process.
Here are a few resources worth reading.
Opinion: The moral imperative of health-care reform
By David Gushee
Associated Baptist Press
How Heath Insurance Reform Will Benefit Texas
From HealthReform.gov of the US Department of Health & Human Services
5 Myths About Health Care Around the World
By T.R. Reid
The Washington Post
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