AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott doubled down on his efforts Thursday, to discourage Texas cities from defunding Police departments.
The Governor announced a new legislative proposal on the issue. Under the legislation, cities that defund Police would lose their annexation powers, and residents in areas that have been annexed by the city will be able to vote to dis-annex from the city. In August, Abbott announced a separate proposal that would freeze property tax revenues at the current level for any city that defunds law enforcement.
The Governor was joined by House Speaker Dennis Bonnen, Attorney General Ken Paxton, and members of the Austin Police Association. They all signed a pledge against defunding Police.
“Part of our job as state leaders is to ensure the safety and security of all Texans, and we will not allow that core function to be undermined by cities that de-fund the police who protect and serve our communities,” said Governor Abbott. “Cities have a responsibility to protect public safety, and this new proposal would discourage city leaders from taking the dangerous action of defunding law enforcement. We need all Texans and all candidates running for office to join our cause to support law enforcement and keep Texans safe.”
The Austin City Council voted earlier this year to take away $150 million from its Police Department. The concept surrounds re-allocating funding to community programs. Proposed cuts in other cities, like $7 million by the Dallas City Council take a percentage of money away from Police, not complete defunding.
Dallas attorney Kim Cole believes community programs focused on socio-economic issues could make better use of the money.
“Which will result in a reduction in crime, as well as arrest and incarceration,” Cole insisted.
Governor Abbott will take his proposals to the state legislature.
Listen to Clayton Neville’s story below:
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