The Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has announced its endorsement of two significant propositions on the 2024 ballot: Travis County Child Care Proposition A and the Austin ISD Voter Approval Tax Rate Election (VATRE). The board emphasized the importance of voter participation in shaping the future, with Election Day set for November 5, 2024.
Proposition A addresses affordable childcare, which is identified as crucial for economic growth. The proposition aims to expand access to childcare services, particularly during evenings and weekends, while enhancing quality and capacity. It also seeks to create new business opportunities and stabilize providers, especially within the Spanish-speaking community. The board highlighted that by making childcare more affordable, workforce turnover could be reduced, productivity increased, and the local economy strengthened.
The Diversity Ethnic Chamber Alliance (DECA), including various chambers such as Greater Austin Hispanic and Greater Austin Asian Chambers of Commerce, has also endorsed Proposition A.
Additionally, the board supports VATRE proposed by the Austin Independent School District Board of Trustees. This measure is seen as essential for maintaining a strong local talent pipeline by ensuring quality public education. The chamber stressed that a highly educated workforce is vital for Central Texas's economic health and vitality.
Voters are encouraged to check their registration status at votetexas.gov ahead of early voting from October 21 to November 1.