Advocacy in Austin on behalf of children, families and seniors

The Texas Legislature concluded its 89th session in June and several laws passed that will allow Buckner to shine more hope as we work to strengthen families, increase protection for vulnerable children, and preserve the investments of seniors living in residential retirement communities. Buckner’s expertise in these areas enables the government relations team to inform lawmakers about proposed legislation. 

In advance of each bi-annual session, government relations guides Buckner’s strategic process of establishing public policy priorities and the approach the team will take in advocating for Buckner’s interests. 

A boost for family strengthening

Senate Bill 2018 creates a pilot program to incentivize corporate donations to nonprofit fatherhood engagement services and/or case management/coaching services for at-risk families that include economic strengthening. 

The law offers a dollar-for-dollar franchise tax credit (business tax) for eligible donations. A total $5 million in franchise tax credits are available for the pilot and are limited to $1 million per donor. The pilot is slated to begin June 1, 2026, and expires Jan. 1, 2029.

Other legislation focuses on providing funding to increase high quality child care. One will provide scholarships for low-income parents who are working and going to school.

Protecting seniors’ investments

In the interest of senior services, Buckner government relations, along with LeadingAge Texas, a nonprofit that advocates for senior living, collaborated to protect the nonprofit property tax exemption for senior living communities. 

The tax exemption helps to continue the charitable care we provide to some seniors and also shields residents residing with Buckner from paying property taxes. One of Buckner’s Baptist Retirement Community residents traveled to Austin with her husband to testify on behalf of that legislation. 

Andrea Sparks, director of government relations, said Buckner’s breadth and depth of expertise is recognized and appreciated at the Capitol. “Buckner government relations is humbled to act as a resource to legislators on issues in which we have expertise,” said Sparks. “Even if we are not scheduled to testify on an issue, sometimes we receive calls for Buckner’s opinion – do we think it’s a good idea or not and why?” Sparks adds that it is a privilege to be a voice for the best interests of those Buckner serves.