The recent Texas legislative session marked a pivotal moment for TIP as we mobilized unprecedented grassroots advocacy that caught lawmakers' attention. Through strategic coordination and community support, our work prevented more than 50 anti-vaccine bills and resolutions from advancing through the legislature. TIP’s advocacy efforts were multiplied by supporters—parents, grandparents, healthcare professionals, school nurses, students and public health advocates—who traveled to the Capitol from across Texas. Those unable to make the journey to Austin contributed through phone calls and emails, creating a sustained pressure campaign that flooded legislative offices. Among our most significant victories, nine dangerous anti-mRNA vaccine bills never reached committee consideration. When one bill did advance to a hearing, TIP’s advocacy efforts prevented it from receiving a vote, demonstrating the power of organized opposition. The session wasn't without setbacks. Lawmakers passed HB 1586, legislation now headed to the governor's desk that weakens safeguards on school vaccine exemptions. This occurred despite 250 Texans speaking against the measure compared to fewer than 75 supporters, highlighting a disconnect between constituent voices and legislative action. The timing is particularly concerning as a measles outbreak spreads in Texas, even as polling shows 72% of Texans support school vaccine requirements. Many legislators chose to ignore both scientific evidence and constituent preferences, raising questions about external influences on legislation. Despite these challenges, TIP and our advocates achieved remarkable success, stopping 91% of the 57 anti-vaccine bills and resolutions introduced during the session. This represents more than just legislative victories—it signals a growing movement gaining momentum. TIP’s greatest achievement may be cultivating new advocates who engaged in the political process for the first time. These newly activated voices are the foundation for future efforts and demonstrate the expanding reach of the immunization advocacy movement. The session proved that organized advocacy can create meaningful change, even in the face of coordinated, well-funded attacks. TIP didn’t just weather this storm—we mapped a path forward. And that blueprint will be critical as future legislative battles threaten the foundation of vaccine policy in Texas and nationwide. | 
