August 2020
What's New in HD 102
In Conversation with Local Activists:
Letters Co-Signed in Support of Multiple Issues
Chairman Trey Martinez Fischer authored a letter to Gov. Abbot to advocate for the Texas Legislature. To read the full letter, click here .

Representative Wu authored a letter to Chief Justice Hecht to extend the temporary pausing of eviction and foreclosure proceedings on residential homes and properties. To read the full letter, click here .

Representative Howard authored a letter to the Texas Workforce Commission to ask to maintain the 25% enhanced subsidy reimbursement rate for childcare providers. To read the full letter, click here.

Representative Calanni authored a letter to the Texas Supreme Court to provide direction for divorced parents who may have opposing thoughts in regards to their children's education. To read the full letter, click here .
Call with Young Activists
If you watched the video above, you already know how amazing these young activists are. They are the organizers of the Berkner Park March, in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter Movement, and to denounce police brutality. 

It is time we listen to the new generations, as they are proving to be the leaders we need.
**Check them out on Twitter or Instagram** @operationorang3 
Successful No-Contact Lit Drop
I would like to take a moment to thank all of the brave volunteers who showed up for our first NO-CONTACT LIT DROP! We were able to provide legislative updates and tips on how to vote safely during this time. 

It was an exciting day, and I look forward to many more in the future!


**If you would like to get involved, please** email [email protected]
Updates from the Texas Women's Health Caucus

I am saddened to share that the remains of Spc. Vanessa Guillen was confirmed to be found on July 5th. The official statements left much to be desired, so the Texas House Women's Health Caucus respectfully requested for more transparency from the U.S. Army and a full independent Congressional investigation.
My thoughts and prayers go to her family during these difficult times. To read the letter, click here .

The Women's Health Caucus has also released a statement to thank HHSC for it's 5-Year Postpartum Depression Strategic Plan and to offer guidance to make sure that telehealth mental health services are expanded, among other things. To read the letter, please click here .
STAAR Test Op-Ed
My colleagues, Rep. Rhetta Bowers & Rep. Hinojosa, and I wrote an Op-Ed to ask Gov. Greg Abbott to reconsider his decision to require STAAR testing for the 2020-2021 school year. This comes after careful consideration to provide our kids the best chance at academic success and allow for the STAAR test funds to instead be used for much needed pandemic-time necessities.


**To read full Op-Ed, please visit the** Austin American Statesman
Education Working Group Update & Statewide Survey
The Texas House Democratic Caucus' Education Working Group is looking for feedback from families, educators, staff, and students across the state regarding preferences for policies surrounding in-person or remote instruction at schools this fall. Your participation in this survey will help the Texas HDC push for solutions that work for all Texas families come back-to-school season. To see discussion, click here .
Click the photo to participate in the statewide survey
Conversation with The TXME Coalition
Have you heard about the 'Tampon Tax'? Last week I spoke with the Texas Menstrual Equity Coalition to discuss the Tampon Tax and health access equity for all. To view the full video, click here .

For more resources, please visit:
Texas HDC Education Working Group Responds to TEA Announcement about School Funding
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) announced that schools closed by a local health authority, and solely providing remote instruction after the allocated transition window, would not qualify for funding. As part of the Texas HDC Education Working Group, our statement says, "rather than providing consistent guidance, support and funding for Texas schools, state leadership is forcing schools to open regardless of the recommendations of health experts.".


**To read the full letter, click here. **
Important Dates in August
August 5th - Education Town Hall
August 9th - Texas Parents Day
August 17th - DISD First Day of School
August 19th - RISD First Day of School
August 26th - Classes Start at Dallas Colleges


*All in-person events & appearances have been cancelled or postponed due to COVID-19
The Census Bureau is still in the process of getting all residents counted for the census. Soon you'll see enumerators canvassing areas where residents haven't had the opportunity to participate. The data collection will take no more than 15 minutes. Don't want anyone knocking at your door? Head over to 2020Census.gov or call 844-330-2020 and contribute to the count.

To receive more information about the Task Forces that make up the Steering Committee, or to join, please email [email protected] or call our District Office at (972)239-5367. You can also apply directly by filling out the application found here .
HD 102 Local Highlight
Tongue-in-cheek Ice cream
This small-batch creamery, located at 526 W. Arapaho Road, Richardson, serves premium, homemade ice cream as well as sorbet, nondairy, and vegan options. The business also offers ice cream cakes and pies, grab-and-go ice cream pints, shakes, and coffee. Make sure you visit and follow them on Facebook --they always have a fun contest going on for a chance to win a scoop of ice cream. Curious about the fire truck in the photo? Brett Smith, who started the creamery, is also a local firefighter! They are open every day, from 11 am to 10 pm (and from 12 pm to 10 pm on Sundays).
If you own/manage a local business that you'd like to be featured, please email [email protected] -- we would love to feature you!

State Office

P.O. Box 2910
Austin, Texas 78768-2910

O: 512-463-0454

District Resource Website:

www.texasrepramos.com

Political Advertising Paid For by the Ramos for Texas Campaign
P.O. Box 852227
Richardson, TX 75085, United States