Alma A. Allen

What training, experience, and characteristics qualify you for this position?

I served in HISD for 39 years as an elementary teacher, assistant principal, principal, and in human resources and central administration. I also served 10 years on the Texas State Board of Education, and have been a State Representative since 2005. I have led successful fights in education and criminal justice reform, and have the experience to get things done, and continue fighting for House District 131.

Article 7 of the Texas Constitution states that “it shall be the duty of the Legislature of the State to establish and make suitable provision for the support and maintenance of an efficient system of public free schools.” What is your interpretation of what this clause requires of the legislature?

Article 7 of the Texas Constitution's requirement to support and maintain efficient and free public schools means public education is a constitutional right. The state is responsible for providing a learning environment that prepares students for the future job market. That includes up-to-date technology, standards that are based in science and developed by professionals, and high quality certified teachers, with competitive salaries, who can teach students with various learning needs.

How will you ensure that Texas remains a leader in the energy sector through innovation and reliability?

In order to remain a leader in the energy sector, we need to focus on creating a more reliable grid, and increasing power generation, to serve our growing population. We also need to look to the future, which is cleaner energy, by balancing our current needs with an increased focus on renewable energy.

What do you believe is the appropriate role of the State of Texas in ensuring that Texans have access to reproductive healthcare, family planning, and pregnancy care and postpartum services?

The State of Texas' role in reproductive healthcare is to provide services that prevent unwanted pregnancies, promote healthy pregnancies and postpartum services, and enforce licensing and safety requirements. We need to allow patients and doctors to make medical decisions base on the unique medical needs of their patient, without interference of the government.

What other issues are high priorities for the people of your district? Please give specific examples of measurable actions that you will take to address these issues.

Education and air quality are the most important issues in the district. Despite the current lack of resources for students and teachers, the state requires districts to fight for funding every session. We need to fully fund schools and increase teacher pay. Regarding air quality, we need to give the TCEQ the teeth to deny permits when an area has been oversaturated with facilities that pollute our neighborhoods. We also need stronger enforcement and higher penalties for habitual violators.