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The Zika virus is at our state’s doorstep, and this week Senate Democrats filibustered a bill that would provide resources for health professionals and local officials to combat the threat of the virus simply to score political points.

The reasons Democrats blocked this bill make no sense:   

• They say the bill doesn’t provide enough money: Not only did every Senate Democrat vote in favor of that same funding level previously, but the President still has about a half billion dollars of unallocated Ebola funds to divert to Zika needs. 
• They say it is an attack on women’s health: This bill expands access to women’s health care through Medicaid, community health centers, and hospitals.
• They say there’s concerns with environmental protection: This legislation provides short-term relief from bureaucratic permitting requirements so local officials can easily eradicate mosquitos that carry the virus. 

The health of mothers and children across Texas are at stake, and Democrats must drop their filibuster when the Senate has the chance to vote on this bipartisan bill next week.