The War on Freedom of Movement

Emissions Testing: Another Government Limitation

For example, Bexar County will begin emissions testing on Sunday, November 1, 2026, requiring gas-powered vehicles between 2 and 24 years old to pass an inspection before renewing their registration. This program aims to improve air quality to meet federal requirements.

However, this program will hurt everyone, especially low-income people who will have to fix their vehicles to pass inspection.

San Antonio City Councilwoman Misty Spears and Bexar Commissioner Grant Moody have pushed back and taken the fight to Washington. But where is the same urgency from the progressive members of the City Council and the County Commissioners' Court?

Aren't liberal progressives supposed to represent working people? These lower-income, working-class vehicle owners could face hundreds—even thousands—of dollars in repairs to keep their vehicles on the road. For someone driving an older vehicle and unable to buy a new car, a failed inspection could threaten their transportation and livelihood.

For now, thanks to local leaders who met with the Trump Administration, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has granted a stay. Further developments are expected as discussions continue regarding the impact on drivers, particularly those with older vehicles that may require repairs.

Bike Lanes, Carpool Lanes, and Mass Transit

Another example of government efforts to "get people out of their cars" and save the environment is the creation of bike lanes and carpool lanes. This clogs the streets and freeways and makes driving expensive, inconvenient, and dangerous.

Another example is the push for publicly funded mass transportation. A good example is San Antonio's San Pedro Avenue. It "was" a four-lane street that is being narrowed to two lanes to accommodate a mass transit bus system and bike lanes. It will create more traffic congestion and commuter frustration. It will also be dangerous because the riders will need to cross the street to access the mass transportation system.

San Antonio's progressive elected officials are creating traffic congestion for private commuters in major street arteries in the name of saving the environment. They also hurt taxpayers with higher city and county taxes and fees. All of this while both San Antonio and Bexar County face the largest budget deficits in history.

Freedom of Travel Is Under Attack

Dictators want to control where people work and live by controlling their travel. They will prevent freedom of travel and individual movement.

This included creating incentives for developers to build housing and amenities in downtown San Antonio.

Historically, Americans have depended on personal cars to drive to work, move to suburban communities, and for recreation. But gas-powered engines are the target of progressives who want green energy. Knowingly or not, these leftist environmentalists are the pawns of groups and people who want to control the free and independent movement of Americans.

So why do they keep electing politicians who support community over individuals? Citizens and taxpayers must vote for local candidates who support private economic development and freedom of travel.

San Antonio citizens must vote for freedom, not more local government interference, and emissions testing is more government interference. Speak up, speak out.