PROMOTING RESPONSIBLE GUN OWNERSHIP

   Most Texans believe in the 2nd Amendment and the right to own firearms. Texans also agree that we must do something to curb the mass shootings that have led to tragedy after tragedy. Elizabeth will support rational measures such as red flag laws, responsible gun storage, background checks, better enforcement of existing laws, and limiting the sale of military weaponry so our police aren't outgunned in our neighborhoods. Texans have the right to live free from the fear of gun violence in our schools, shopping malls, movie theaters, places of worship and festivals. 

   Quality education is a core value in Texas House District 108 and constitutionally mandated in Texas, but Republican Morgan Meyer has voted FOR vouchers and AGAINST teacher raises. Parents and taxpayers expect a State Representative who will defend our public schools, not defund them. We need to provide local districts with the needed resources in schools, and work together towards a long-term solution that reduces the burden on homeowners who have covered the bill left by the state reducing its contribution to public school funding. We also need to support special education programs and invest in trade programs, community colleges, adult education and other ways to prepare our workforce to be job ready. 

   Republican Morgan Meyer voted for extremist legislation to deny Texans access to reproductive care and abortion, even in extreme circumstances such as rape and incest. After Roe v. Wade was overturned, he said he would advocate for exceptions, but failed to deliver. Across Texas, women and parents are suffering from emotional and physical pain created by this barbaric legislation. Elizabeth believes that the state government has overreached into our healthcare and is interfering with personal decisions that should be made between individuals and their doctors. 

  The right to vote in safe, free and fair elections is a cornerstone of our democracy and it is vital we protect it. We currently face a direct threat to our democracy and rising authoritarianism in both our state and national governments. January 6th exemplified the fragility of our democracy in the face of extreme right-wing rhetoric and policy that led to illegal acts. We must reject those who push this narrative, like Donald Trump and Ken Paxton, and hold accountable those who stand in silent complacency, like Morgan Meyer.

  Republican Morgan Meyer voted for the "death star" bill that strips authority from municipalities and residents to make the best decisions for their community. Elizabeth Ginsberg believes in local government and understands that what is best for Austin may not be what is best for Dallas, Lake Highlands, or the Park Cities. Elizabeth will support a working balance with local officials to prevent patchwork policies, while respecting local control. 

 Free enterprise, the ability to follow a vision by starting a small business, the challenge and achievement of building a large company: these are all integral to the American Dream. We can keep growing and also take care of people with better wages and benefits, and working environments that are free of discrimination. We all benefit from an economy that lifts everyone up. Extreme right-wing culture wars are costing Texans money, ignoring the most basic needs of our state and creating a "brain drain" that is sending top talent to other states. As a result, Texas has been declining in the rankings for Top States for Business.

  Like any business, the energy sector recognizes the requirement to diversify and adapt to change. We need a practical, but aggressive plan to reduce our emissions and transition to clean energy. Clean energy has been critical for keeping the power grid from failing as it struggles through the extreme Texas weather. It is time to improve our energy infrastructure and incentivize development of new technologies and energy solutions. Our environment will thank us. Our children will thank us. And our economy will benefit from new industries, careers and jobs.

  Elizabeth Ginsberg firmly believes in access to affordable healthcare options and robust individual options. Additionally, Texas should finally expand Medicaid. Accepting the federal funds will strengthen our healthcare system, generate new jobs, improve our state's economy and put money in the pocketbooks of taxpayers.