Advocacy
Mayor Sylvester Turner has worked with the White House, Congress, and several national organizations to champion federal policies, funding, and programs on behalf of the City of Houston. He has also worked with his colleagues across the nation and internationally to amplify city voices and advocate for more resources for preparedness within communities.
Whether it is the President or members of the cabinet, the Mayor wants to share how Houston is getting the job done and what the federal government and City of Houston accomplish together on behalf of their shared constituents. It is a testament to the quality of work and workforce that so many officials have chosen to visit Houston to see federal programs put into practice.
Legislatively, the Mayor continues to work with members on both sides of the aisle to help all levels of government be more responsive to community needs. Some legislation is specific to Houston’s experience, such as Rep. Lizzie Fletcher’s HELP Act to reduce the timeline to complete mitigation projects. Others include Senator Cornyn’s Safe Communities Act which applies national best practices like closing the “boyfriend loophole” for gun purchases.
Organizations like the U.S. Conference of Mayors plays a vital role in helping not only to shape policy but to host federal officials to understand the challenges and opportunities that federal programs offer to cities. Groups like the African American Mayors Association and Climate Mayors are key in advancing the specific concerns as a collective body.
Ultimately, the work to pass legislation is very difficult, and will only advance when members of the Houston delegation come together to address shared concerns. Mayor Turner is grateful for the opportunity to share how those efforts have progressed under these collective efforts.
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