Controversial Texas New Law “Death Star” Blocked by Judge
Texas new law faces setback as judge rules ‘Death Star’ legislation limiting local regulations unconstitutional. Key industries and local ordinances at stake. Read more.
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Examining the Impact of Texas New Law “Death Star” Law on Local Regulations
A Texas new law aimed to limit the power of local officials in regulating industries has been ruled unconstitutional by Travis County District Judge Maya Guerra Gamble. According to Texas Tribune, the Texas new law, dubbed the “Death Star” law due to its broad reach, was promoted by Texas Republicans but faced strong opposition. The city of Houston filed a lawsuit arguing that the law gave the state too much control and was too vague to be enforced effectively. The ruling prevents the law from taking effect on September 1st, though an appeal from the state is likely.
The Texas new law’s implications were far-reaching, potentially invalidating various local rules across Texas in sectors like labor, agriculture, finance, business, insurance, and more. If the ruling is overturned in the future, the law would allow individuals to challenge a range of local regulations. For instance, certain Austin ordinances, such as those governing breaks for construction workers and regulations on predatory payday lenders, could face legal challenges if the law is eventually enforced.
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Organizations Unite Against Texas New Law “Death Star” Corporate Emphasis
According to Austin Chronicle, the decision was met with approval from various advocacy organizations, including the Texas AFL-CIO, Local Progress Texas, Every Texan, ACLU of Texas, and Workers Defense Project. These groups had opposed the law. As the legal process continues, the fate of the Texas new law “Death Star” remains uncertain, leaving the landscape of industry regulation in Texas subject to further developments.