Throughout the 88th Legislative Session, 100 legislators stood alongside Raise Your Hand Texas, fighting for the needs of Texas’ 5.4 million public school students. We are recognizing them for their outstanding achievement and steadfast commitment to Texas public education.

These 100 individuals rose to the occasion during the 88th Legislative Session and made decisions that were the very best for their communities and their schools. They did the right thing throughout the Session, keeping constituents at the forefront of their public education decisions and supporting the desires of their local families, educators, and the future workforces of their communities.

They continued to stay strong and denounce vouchers, even when out-of-state interests tried to convince some state leaders that vouchers (aka education savings accounts) should be their number one priority for education this Session – despite the well-established need to address school safety, teacher salaries, and rising costs due to inflation. Saying no to vouchers is fundamental to protecting and preserving an education system that is committed to each and every student.

The recipients of the Public Education Champion Award withstood intense political pressure in order to do right by families, schools, and communities, and took votes to prevent vouchers in Texas.

Working in the legislature can often be a thankless job. The Raise Your Hand Texas Public Education Champion Award recognizes legislators who went above and beyond for their public schools during the 88th Session. We believe this award validates their work.

The Texas PTA proudly presents the Champion for Children award to these members of the Texas House for showing unmatched courage in safeguarding our public schools and keeping tax money where it belongs. Thank you  for being champions for children and ensuring their potential is a reality!

Our champions are Alma Allen, Steve Allison, Rafael Anchia, Ernest Bailes, Keith Bell, Diego Bernal, Salman Bhojani, Rhetta Bowers, John Bryant, John Bucy, DeWayne Burns, Liz Campos, Terry Canales, Travis Clardy, Sheryl Cole, NicoleC ollier, Philip Cortez, Drew Darby, Yvonne Davis, Jay Dean, Harold Dutton, Lulu Flores, Erin Gamez, Josey Garcia, Charlie Geren, Barbara Gervin-Hawkins, Jessica Gonzalez, Mary Gonzalez, Vikki Goodwin, Bobby Guerra, Ana Hernandez, Abel Herrero, Gina Hinajosa, Justin Holland, Donna Howard, Ann Johnson, Eddie Morales Jr, Andrew Murr, Victoria Neave, Claudia Ordaz, Lina Ortega, Mary Ann Perez, Mihaela Plesa, Four Price, Ana-Maria Ramos, John Raney, Raymond Peña, Ron Reynolds, Glenn Rogers, Ramon Romero, Toni Rose, Jon Rosenthal, Carl Sherman, Hugh Shine, Reggie Smith, James Talarico, Shawn Thierry, Ed Thompson, Senfronia Thompson, Chris Turner, Gary Van Deaver, Hubert Vo, Armando Walle, Gene Wu, and Erin Zwiener.

Ever since the first legislature was established 400 years ago, the bedrock principle of American democracy is that elections matter and we peacefully handover power to the winner of each election, even when we disagree with them.

January 6, 2021 put a strain on that notion when thousands of rioters stormed the Capitol to intimidate Congress into overturning the election. Over 2,000 people broke into the U.S. Capitol, this attack was a blatant attempt to undermine the will of the people and disrupt the peaceful transfer of power. It was a direct assault on the values and principles that our democracy represents.

The images of violence and chaos that unfolded that day serve as a stark reminder of the need to remain vigilant in the face of threats to our democratic system.

Our justice system responded to the insurrection; more than 1,230 individuals have been charged and 900 convictions have been secured, ranging from misdemeanor offenses like trespassing to felonies like assaulting police officers and seditious conspiracy. Around 1 in every 35 of those defendants were from right here in North Texas.

I was a Texas Capitol staffer in Austin when our nation's Capitol was under attack. Governor Abbott ordered us to be on stand-by in case a Capitol attack happened in Texas, too.

This unprecedented assault on our democratic institutions shook the nation to its core and highlighted the fragility of our democracy.

In Texas, election deniers have been hard at work, pushing destructive legislation that enabled a state takeover of elections in Harris County and another that removed Texas from the Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC), the system that improves the accuracy of our state’s voter rolls and prevents people from casting ballots in multiple states. Twice I raised points of order to prevent SB 1070, the bill that would take Texas out of ERIC, from moving forward, but unfortunately, like a zombie, this bad bill that will enable voter fraud in our state kept returning and was eventually passed.

Voting is a fundamental right and where all our other rights stem from. Voting gives us the power to defend our freedoms and have a voice in government. When more people participate in elections, our government better reflects the people who make up our beautiful and resilient state, and we elect leaders who truly represent the people.

I believe that elections should be fair, free, secure, and accessible. That every eligible citizen should be able to easily cast their vote for the candidate of their choice without having to navigate bureaucratic red tape or burdensome voter suppression policies.

In the 88th legislature I proudly defended voting rights and firmly opposed voter suppression tactics in Austin and I will continue that fight into the next legislative session.

By recognizing the significance of this attack and the ongoing challenges to our democracy, we can work towards strengthening our institutions and protecting the integrity of our elections. It is our responsibility as citizens to ensure that the voices of the people are heard and that our democratic ideals are upheld.

Together, we can work towards a stronger, more resilient democracy for future generations.

Bipartisan Coalition Saves Public Schools For Now

AUSTIN—Today marks the furthest a private school voucher bill has made it in the Texas House in recent years. After a 140 day legislative session and four special sessions where vouchers failed to gain traction, the House sent a clear message to the Governor that they would not pass a private school voucher scam.

Representative Mihaela Plesa, one of only two Collin County Representatives who voted against private school vouchers, released the following statement after HB 1 failed to pass:

“Once again, the House has stood firm. We have not wavered in our opposition to any scam that gives public dollars to private schools. We refuse to give your tax dollars to unaccountable executives and organizations withno transparency or public scrutiny. We refuse to defund our public schools. Hard working families should not have to foot the bill for millionaires to send their kids to private schools.

“I hope that we can now focus our attention on passing a robust and meaningful school finance bill, teacher pay raises, money for school nurses and counselors, new textbooks, lab equipment, technology—and all the things that strengthen our schools and our state.

“While today is a bright spot of hope, let us remain vigilant. We have won this battle, but the fight is far from over. Let’s get to work.”

Governor Abbott Calls Yet Another Special Session Immediately

Statement by Representative Mihaela E. Plesa, Collin County:

The Texas House and Senate spent 140 days in regular session and there weren’t enough votes for the Governor’s voucher scam. Three special sessions came and went, and there still aren’t enough votes to pass voucher scams. Last week, the Governor said “a deal” had been struck, yet mere hours later it was clear that this was untrue. While proponents of a school voucher scam seek to manufacture momentum for their endeavors to line their own pockets with public dollars without public scrutiny, the pro-public education coalition has never been stronger in the Texas House. We are an ever-growing, bipartisan, and principled coalition of lawmakers who will fight tooth and nail for our public schools, for accountability to thetaxpayers, for what is best for our kids, families, and communities, and above all else we will fight toprotect the Texas Constitution.

When the pandemic threatened our health and livelihoods, when businesses had to shutter their doors; when Hurricane Harvey ravaged our coastal communities; and when 19 elementary school children and two teachers were gunned down in Uvalde—Abbott refused to call a special session. Lawmakers could have sent emergency aid, passed new laws or cut red tape for challenging and unforeseen times, but no. Yet here we are, the fourth back to back special session of this year. This troubling pattern shows that the Governor’s priorities are not the same as everyday Texans’ priorities. What’s important to you, isn’t whatmatters to him.

As an advocate for public schools, I am against any and all voucher scams. Texas is currently ranked43rd in the nation in per-student funding for public schools. Our students, families, and teachers deservebetter. However, instead of opting for policies that address the challenges facing Texas public schoolsthrough increased funding, the Governor is pushing an agenda that will exacerbate the issues faced by these institutions. One must continue to ask “why?”

Vouchers are a scam aimed at diverting Texan tax dollars away from neighborhood schools and into private schools that lack any accountability to taxpayers and are not obliged to accommodate all students. We must invest in our public schools, address their needs, and ensure that every child in Texas has the opportunity to receive a high-quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Rather than entertain these schemes, I am committed to continuing the collaboration with mycolleagues, fellow Texas legislators who share an understanding of the significance of protecting our public schools and we will defeat these voucher scams just like we have done every time since they were first introduced in 1957.

When Annie’s List endorses a candidate, you can rest assured that the causes that matter to you will be given a strong voice. Annie’s List endorsed candidates and elected officials commit to uphold our six pillars: Protect, Health Care, Equality, Inclusion, Reproductive Rights, Education

In the Texas House we have named the following state representatives as our 2023 legislative champions: Rep. Ana Hernandez, Rep. Ana-Maria Ramos, Rep. Ann Johnson, Rep. Barbara Gervin-Hawkins, Rep. Donna Howard, Rep. Dr. Alma A. Allen, Rep. Dr. Mary González, Rep. Erin Gamez, Rep. Erin Zwiener, Rep. Gina Hinojosa, Rep. Josey Garcia, Rep. Julie Johnson, Rep. Lina Ortega, Rep. Lulu Flores, Rep. Mary Ann Perez, Rep. Mihaela Plesa, Rep. Nicole Collier, Rep. Rhetta Andrews Bowers, Rep. Rhetta Bowers, Rep. Senfronia Thompson, Rep. Shawn Thierry, Rep. Sheryl Cole, Rep. Terry Meza, Rep. Toni Rose, Rep. Victoria Neave-Criado, and Rep. Vikki Goodwin.

Currently, Annie’s List considers endorsements in statewide, legislative, State Board of Education, county and municipal races. Although Annie’s List does not endorse in federal or judicial races, please get in touch if you are running. We are happy to provide information on great training sessions and connect you with organizations that do endorse those races.

Annie’s List PAC has won more than 170 races across the state—making it one of the most successful political organizations in Texas. Since its founding in 2003, Annie’s List has raised more than $20 million to help progressive women run efficient and effective campaigns.

Annie’s List’s 20th anniversary comes at a critical moment in our history. Women’s rights are under attack; there is a growing onslaught of restrictive abortion laws, threats to the LGBTQIA+ community, and challenges imposed on public schools. Today, more than ever, there is an urgent need for Annie’s List.

With a proven track record of supporting women on their paths to elected office across all levels of government, Annie’s List is a driving force for gender equity in Texas. And until equity is achieved, Annie’s List Champions, staff, donors, allies, and volunteers will work tirelessly to advance women of all backgrounds in Texas politics.

The Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities (TCDD) is pleased to announce TCDD Legislative Champions for the 88th Texas Legislature. During the legislative session earlier this year, these lawmakers actively worked toward improving inclusion, breaking down barriers, and promoting an increased quality of life for Texans with developmental disabilities (DD). TCDD has also identified legislative staff members who contributed to progressing bills helpful to people with disabilities or excelled in constituent services for that population.

On Sept. 20, TCDD held an online event to announce and honor the following legislators and staff. Legislative champions were recognized within categories to highlight the specific issues they each advanced during the session.

Rising Stars: Rising Stars are lawmakers still somewhat new to the legislature who authored and helped progress bills related to disability advocacy.

• Rep. Elizabeth “Liz” Campos authored HB 4702, which would have established Medicaid reimbursement for DD peer support services. In her second term at the Capitol, she also filed bills relating to the regulation of assisted living facilities.

• Sen. Morgan LaMantia, in her first session in Austin, authored legislation to provide information to students on the Driving with a Disability program. She carried a variety of other disability-related bills, including health benefit coverage for autism services and the use of the school safety allotment for mental health services.

• Rep. Mihaela Plesa successfully carried an amendment to add more funding for Early Childhood Intervention services. A freshman lawmaker, she registered as a joint or coauthor for numerous disability-related bills.

I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the citizens of our great state for their patience throughout the impeachment proceedings against Attorney General Ken Paxton. This trial has laid bare the political landscape that often undermines the pursuit of justice and accountability in our state and also exemplifies exactly why so many Texans have a distrust of state government. While the acquittal of AG Ken Paxton has concluded the impeachmentprocess, it is important to recognize that it does not resolve the concerns and allegations of corruption and misuse of power brought forth against him. Ken Paxton prioritized his self-interest over that of Texas and continues to facecriminal investigations and civil litigation in other courts.

Throughout this process, it became evident that partisan loyalty and campaign contributions overshadowed the principles that should guide our actions. House Managers diligently presented thousands of pages of evidence and arguments to support the 20 Articles of Impeachment brought against AG Paxton. However, the ultimate decision laid in the hands of the Senate, which acquitted him. I am disappointed to see the Senate fail to uphold its responsibility. I am dismayed that justice was not served today. The political landscape surrounding this trial has exposed a deep divide, where party affiliation and personal interests overshadowed the pursuit of truth and justice for the people of Collin County and Texas at large. It is disheartening to witness the erosion of our democratic values, where the actions of elected officials are shielded from accountability.

Let us not lose sight of the fact that this trial also shed light on the resilience and determination of those who fought for accountability. It showcased the unwavering commitment of the people who raised their voices, demanding transparency and fairness. It is to these individuals that I extend my deepest gratitude for their unyielding dedication to upholding the ideals of justice and good governance.

This trial may have ended with an acquittal, but it has not dampened my resolve. I will continue to fight for the principles we hold dear, championing policies that promote the common good and ensuring that our elected officials are held accountable for their actions.

Together, we can foster an environment where justice takes precedence over party politics. Let us strive for a future where the pursuit of truth and accountability thrives, and our democracy is fortified against the corrosive impact of partisanship. As your state representative, I am more determined than ever to restore faith in our democratic processes. As we move forward, let us reaffirm our commitment to prioritizing transparency, accountability, and the pursuit of justice in every aspect of our governance.

HB 1 Increases State Funds in Critical Areas, Falls Short in Others

AUSTIN—The Texas House of Representatives approved the final version of the state budget, HB 1, for the next biennium. This session, we had a historic budget surplus larger than some states’ and countries’ entire economies.Over the last many months since the House gaveled in for the 88th legislative session, members of both chambers and both parties have worked hard to craft a meaningful budget to address the needs of our citizens and state. I’m proud to share that our amendment to the budget, increasing funding for Early Childhood Intervention by morethan $6 million, was adopted in the final budget. These additional funds will go a long way to provide access andbenefits to toddlers with special needs across the state.

The budget provides historic property tax relief while increasing yields on our golden pennies to reduce recapture and keep local tax dollars in the local school district. We have made unprecedented investments in expanding broadband access and transportation infrastructure. HB 1 includes billions of additional dollars for mental health hospitals, pediatrics, women’s health, ambulatory and emergency medical services. The budget invests heavily in important climate friendly initiatives like water infrastructure, protecting parks and wildlife, and energy security.

While there are many great provisions in our budget that I believe are important to our district and state, Iwill be the first to admit that we fell short in some key areas. While the final budget includes a cost-of-living adjustment and 13th check for our retired teachers, I believe we could’ve done more for our retirees. I am also disheartened that the student basic allotment was increased by only $50 per student when we know we need an increase of at least $1,000 to make up for the record inflation. As the Senate reduced this funding, they covertly attempted to slide in funding for educational savings account—vouchers. I have grave concerns including any funding for vouchers in the state budget. I am also furious that the Senate hijacked the House’s strongteacher pay raise bill and loaded it up with voucher funding—killing teacher raises in retaliation for the House standing up for public education. Holding new state aid to schools hostage with demands for vouchers ignoresboth the real needs of Texas students and educators.

This budget is just the start of this important conversation. I look forward to any opportunity for us to come backin a special session and finish the job using the millions of surplus dollars left on the table.

Collin County Democrat Condemns Paxton’s Gross Misconduct, Moral Turpitude, and

Unfitness to Serve Texans

(AUSTIN)—State Representative Mihaela Plesa, a Collin County Democrat, representing House district 70 that includes parts of Dallas, Richardson, Plano, Frisco and Allen, issued the following response to General Paxton’s statements made on Friday and comments on the Texas House’s impeachment proceedings.

“After a thorough investigation conducted by career professionals, the Republican-led General Investigating Committee found that General Paxton has: obstructed state and federal investigations; used his position to line his pockets while defrauding the taxpayers; demonstrated moral turpitude; used his position to provide material benefits to his extramarital paramour; worked against the interests of charitable organizations in Texas; acted nefariously to do the illicit bidding of his megadonors; and eroded the public trust in his ability to faithfully execute the duties of the Office of Attorney General. General Paxton’s failure to uphold the law does not mean he is above the law. No one is above the law. Texans need a cop, not a crook, as our chief law enforcement officer.

“General Paxton admits his misdeeds have long been reported in the media, as if this is a defense of his defenseless actions. He claims these matters have been litigated by the voters but he refuses to face either his accusers or his felony indictment in court. If Paxton has nothing to hide, then he should stand trial, and present exculpatory evidence, enjoy the due process afforded to all defendants, and clear his name before a jury of his peers.

“The Constitution grants the House the right to accuse, and the Senate the power to judge any state official accused of committing high crimes. Paxton would not have been investigated by the House but for his request for over $3 million in taxpayer dollars to pay for his misconduct settlement. This investigation was conducted over the last several months and resulted in the 20 Articles of Impeachment brought before the House this week. Within 158 pages, the Articles from the General Investigating Committee (GIC) detail repeated abuses of power and an unfitness to serve the great State of Texas.

“General Paxton’s claims of unfair treatment by partisan actors simply don’t square with the facts. The majority Republican GIC voted unanimously to recommend impeachment of General Paxton. Tomorrow, the majority Republican House will hear arguments and vote. I expect the result will be bipartisan.

“Tomorrow, I will have the solemn responsibility of voting to impeach one of my predecessors in the legislature. I am not going to be an idle spectator to the diminution, the subversion, and the destruction of the Constitution by someone who would abuse their office to such ends. I will fulfill my duty where General Paxton has failed to fulfill his.”

House passes HB 2 & HJR 1

AUSTIN—Today the House passed historic property tax relief and voted to invest our historic budget surplus into public education and our retired teachers! I’m grateful to the hard work members of the House, our Speaker, and Chairman Meyer have put in to this policy solution.

HISTORIC PROPERTY TAX RELIEF

HB 2 provides relief for homeowners, small businesses, land owners, and renters who will see hundreds of dollars in savings each year.

• $17bn in property tax relief

INCREASING PUBLIC EDUCATION FUNDING

Increases state’s share of public education funding to over 503/c>for the first time in decades.

• $5B in new public education dollars

• $4.5B in recapture savings including more than $200M for Plano ISD

• $3.5B in cost-of-living adjustments & 13th checks for retired teachers

• $650M for Texas community colleges

Collin County Lawmaker Seeks Relief For Survivors of Sexual Assault

AUSTIN—State Representative Mihaela Plesa of Collin County has filed HB 5179 to bring awareness to the offense of “stealthing,” and provide survivors a legal avenue to sue the perpetrator for damages andrelief. The House Committee on Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence is set to hear HB 5179 on Wednesday.

Stealthing is the act of nonconsensual condom removal. This occurs when one party, without the knowledge of the other, removes the condom prior to or during sexual intercourse. This is already a criminal offense inTexas and can be prosecuted under Chapter 21 of the Penal Code. However, there is not a clear cause ofaction for survivors to pursue legal remedies in civil court and recover damages from the offender. HB 5179 would create a cause of action for stealthing.

State Representative Mihaela Plesa issued the following statement:

“Stealthing is sexual assault, it is a serious offense and not one to be taken lightly. In the plainest terms, stealthing is when a perpetrator forces another person to have unprotected sex. I’ve consulted criminal judges and prosecutors in North Texas and they’ve advised me that this is already a criminal offense, yet Texas lacks a legal avenue for survivors to recover damages in court.

“As I’ve combed through research, read news ruticles, and consulted with legal and healthcare professionals, the worst thing we’ve discovered is that most victims don’t know they have legal options. They know whathappened to them was wrong but they don’t know that it was a crime and that the law provides recourse. This is a tactic used by abusers to control their victims, to make choices about their bodies and intentionallypass along disease or coerce pregnancy.

“I hope that HB 5179 will not only provide legal relief but also draw awareness to the fact that survivors do have options and remedies and that stealthing is in fact a crime.

“Survivors of stealthing may incur medical bills to treat infections caused by the assault, may need therapy or counseling, they have to take time off work and miss wages, and they may need injunctive relief as the case is pending. HB 5179 allows a judge to grant appropriate injunctive relief and allows a jury to award a claimant who prevails the cost of damages, court costs and fees, and reasonable attorney’s fees as well as exemplary damages when allowed.”

Collin County Freshman Lawmaker Earns Coveted Committee Assignments

AUSTIN—Speaker Dade Phelan has announced the committees of the Texas House marking another milestone in the 88th Legislative Session. With the formation of the House committees, bills can now be referred and heard in the appropriate committees.

Collin County’s newest lawmaker, Representative Plesa of HD 70, has received three committee assignments—which is very rare for most lawmakers, especially freshmen legislators. Rep. Plesa is honored to serve Collin County and the great state of Texas on the House Committee on International Relations & Economic Development (IRED), the House Committee on Pensions, Investments, & Financial Services (PIFS), and the House Committee on Resolutions Calendars.

Representative Plesa issued the following statement:

“I’m honored that our Speaker has appointed me to serve our great state on these three major committees. Each of these committees impacts Collin County, Texas, and the entire countty. Collin County has been a shining example of how to promote economic development and opportunity in a global economy. I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance our workforce, strengthen our economy, pass a cost-of­ living adjustment for our retirees, protect Texas’ investments, build trade relationships and boost commerce between our state and other nations. The Texas economy is larger than some countries’. The surplus we are blessed with right now is larger than some states’ entire budgets. The best thing that ever happened to me was growing up in Texas and earning the support of my community to be our voice in the Texas House. I am dedicated to protecting and advancing the Texas Miracle and its promises to all Texans, to keeping our economy robust, and being a strong voice for Collin County in the Texas House. I thank the Speaker for assigning me these important committees and I look forward to getting to work!”

Representative Mihaela Plesa Files Two Additional Bills Immediately After Being Sworn-In to Office

AUSTIN—Today the Texas Legislature gaveled in for the 88th Legislative Session. Members cast their vote for Speaker, re-electing Speaker Dade Phelan to a second term leading Texas’ lower chamber.

The Texas House of Representatives welcomed about two dozen newly elected members today, including the first Democratic woman to ever represent Collin County. Plesa, a seasoned legislative director and policy professional, is the only Democratic freshman to pre-file legislation, demonstrating her knowledge of the chamber.

Representative Plesa issued the following statement:

“This is a new district with a new member during a new session. I am humbled and honored by this opportunity of a lifetime. I thank my constituents for placing their trust in me and my team, to represent and lead our office with integrity and accountability. We only have 140 days to fight for sensible policies, stand up for Texas children and families, increase public school funding and teacher pay, and so many more kitchen table issues.

I am proud of the five bills we’ve already filed on the first day of session and the other pieces of legislation we’re still drafting. Our legislative agenda reflects the priorities of HD 70 residents and thousands of Texans across the state. We are focused on being vocal advocates for those who need us most—children, women, homeowners, veterans, frontline workers, and animals—to name just a few.

I congratulate my colleagues and look forward to working hand in hand with them to deliver for the people of HD 70 and the great State of Texas.”

Collin County, Texas—Representative-Elect Mihaela Plesa campaigned on her legislative experience and ability to hit the floor running—today she’s proven that she can walk the walk. She is the first and only democratic freshman member to pre-file a bill so far.

HB 733 will improve health outcomes for Texans, empower us with information to keep Texas healthy and save our state billions of dollars in healthcare costs. HB 733 would include health literacy in the state’s health plan and create an advisory committee to identify, study, and resolve our state’s low health literacy rates.

“Keeping Collin County healthy and armed with information and resources is my top priority. I’m proud to already start serving the people. I don’t need to be sworn-in to get to work. Though this is my first term, this isn’t my first rodeo.”

Members can pre-file legislation before the start of the 88th legislative session when members-elect are first sworn-in.

You can read the full text of HB 733 here .

Vote with heart: a guide to LGBTQ+ supportive candidates. Equality Texas is proud to endorse Democratic candidate for HD70 Mihaela Plesa and 90 other pro-equality leaders across Texas. Vote for true #TexasValues

Equality Texas is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization, serving as the largest nonpartisan statewide political advocacy organization working for the elimination of discrimination targeting the LGTBQ+ community.