Dallas, TX – The Freedom Foundation today expressed its support for the newly introduced Government Accountability and Transparency Act, which seeks to restore the proper role of government in the processing of membership dues for public sector labor unions. Introduced by Senator Tan Parker (R-Flower Mound) and Representative Carl Tepper (R-Lubbock) as HB 4525, this bill will prevent Texas government entities from processing payroll deductions for public sector unions.

“It’s time for Texas to stop acting as a debt collector for radical left-wing government unions,” said Freedom Foundation CEO Aaron Withe. “For too long, taxpayers have been forced to finance the collection of union dues, often without their consent. The Freedom Foundation proudly supports this legislation, which will help protect taxpayer dollars and restore the proper role of government.”

“Banning state subsidiaries from the collection of union dues is long overdue legislation,” said Representative Tepper. “Our state and local governments should not be in the business of making payroll deductions on behalf of unions; especially when those unions so often advocate against the interests of the public. I look forward to working with Senator Tan Parker to make this bill law.”

“In the digital age, there is no reason for the government to be involved in collecting dues for any organization,” said Annie Spilman, representative of the Texas Business Coalition. “It is improper for the government to be involved in this practice at all.” 

The Freedom Foundation believes that ending government involvement in union dues collection will increase transparency and accountability. This reform will align Texas with other states that have successfully ended this practice, safeguarding taxpayer funds and reinforcing the principle of limited and accountable government.