Texas Voters to Decide on Parental Rights Amendment Nov. 4

Texas voters will decide on Proposition 15 (SJR 34) on Nov. 4, a constitutional amendment that aims to affirm parental rights. The amendment, supported by the Texas legislature with strong bipartisan backing, has sparked debate among conservative groups. While some advocate for it, others, like Accountability Matters, express concerns about its potential implications.

Proposition 15 seeks to constitutionally establish that parents are the primary decision-makers for their children in matters such as education and healthcare. The Parental Rights Foundation and Texas Home School Coalition support the amendment, believing it will safeguard parental rights from shifting court ideologies.

However, Accountability Matters opposes the proposition. The group argues that the amendment's vague language could be misinterpreted, potentially empowering the state to define acceptable parenting and undermining existing parental rights. They warn that it could invite state overreach and unnecessary litigation.

The amendment passed the Texas legislature with strong support, the Senate unanimously and the House by a vote of 112-22. Yet, the debate among conservative groups highlights the complexity and importance of the issue at hand.

Proposition 15, a constitutional amendment aiming to affirm parental rights, will appear on the Texas ballot this November. With conservative groups divided, voters must weigh the potential benefits and risks of the amendment, including its impact on parental liberty and the potential for legal challenges.