AUSTIN (KRLD) - The 11-member coalition of conservative State House Republicans is called the Freedom Caucus. At a State Capitol press conference, caucus chair Mike Lang explained that their top legislative priorities mirror that of Governor Abbott and House Speaker Dennis Bonnen. They too want school finance reform and property tax relief.
Their agenda also covers 2nd Amendment gun rights. Freedom Caucus Treasurer Mayes Middleton addressed this policy category, which includes constitutional permit-less carry gun legislation. “Law abiding Texans shouldn’t have to pay a fee or take a test to exercise their constitutional rights. We also must stop any effort to pass Red Flag Laws.” These would allow law enforcement, family members, school employees, or district attorneys to file a petition to remove firearms from potentially dangerous people.
The caucus is also pushing for the renewal of the State’s $800-million dollar border security budget. State Representative Matt Schaefer spoke of the importance of border security and immigration reform. “We would opposed any efforts to diminish that funding. We also support President Trump in his effort to build a wall in the places in Texas where it is appropriate and makes sense.”
Caucus members also spoke of passing tougher abortion regulations and backing religious liberty bills.