Insurance reform is not the only thing jeopardized by the Republican Leadership’s cynical calendar placement of the voter ID bill. Here is some of the critical legislation that may fail to be taken up because of the priority given to voter suppression.
* SB 587 – This bill clarifies which of the state’s ailing school districts are available for assistance. The economic crisis has affected schools nationwide, and many have existing debt.

* SB 263 – Texas has more than its fair share of shovel-ready highway improvement projects. This bill relates to the bonds necessary to get these projects moving.

* SB 12 - As hurricane season approaches, it’s imperative that the state has established disaster preparedness and emergency awareness. SB 12 is a vital part of the planning in this vein.

* SB 277 – A bill relating to the Department of Family and Protective Services, SB 277 details protective services and investigations of abuse and/or exploitation of the elderly or disabled.

* SB 388 – The creation of a Public Corruption unit in the Department of Public Safety.

* SB 1022 – The mourning families of passed-on members of the Texas National Guard are entitled to certain benefits. This bill establishes these benefits.

* SB 16 – As the nation’s leading energy producer, Texas certainly has an interest in air quality and energy efficiency in buildings, vehicles and appliances. SB 16 further prepares the state for energy enhancement.

And there are others. The opportunity cost of efforts to disenfranchise voters of far too expensive. Texas lawmakers have much to consider when doing the business of good government. T voter suppression bill is just getting in the way.