Proposing a constitutional amendment providing that members of the legislature and the lieutenant governor will not receive a state salary or per diem during certain periods unless the legislature has passed the state's budget and that budget is certified by the comptroller.
Impact
The implementation of HJR83 would directly influence the legislative process in Texas, particularly regarding the timeline of budget approvals. By withholding compensation from legislators who fail to certify the budget within a designated timeframe, it is expected that this will encourage more punctual legislative sessions and proactive management of state finances. This could lead to significant policy discussions on fiscal responsibility and the importance of a timely budget process in maintaining state operations and services.
Summary
HJR83 is a joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Texas Constitution that alters the compensation structure for members of the legislature and the lieutenant governor. Specifically, the amendment stipulates that these officials shall not receive their state salary or per diem during periods when the legislature has not passed the state's budget and when the budget has not been certified by the comptroller. This measure aims to incentivize timely action on the state's budget to ensure financial governance and accountability.
Contention
While the bill is likely to be seen as a move towards fiscal accountability, it may also raise concerns regarding the pressure it places on legislators. Critics might argue that tying salaries to budget performance could cause undue stress on the legislative process, potentially leading to rushed decision-making or diminished focus on comprehensive budget evaluations. Furthermore, debates could ensue regarding the appropriateness of withholding compensation, especially during economic downturns, or if lawmakers believe additional time is needed for thorough budget scrutiny.
Identical
Proposing a constitutional amendment providing that members of the legislature and the lieutenant governor will not receive a state salary or per diem during certain periods unless the legislature has passed the state's budget and that budget is certified by the comptroller.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to set the salaries of members of the legislature and the lieutenant governor based on the average public school teacher salary in this state.
Relating to an annual state budget and legislative budget sessions in even-numbered years and to political contributions made during a legislative session.
Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the lieutenant governor and speaker of the house of representatives to call the legislature into special session on petition of at least two-thirds of the members of each house of the legislature in response to a fiscal crisis, war, natural disaster, or emergency.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to limit the time that a person may serve as a member of the Texas Legislature or as a statewide elected officer in the executive branch.
Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the creation of and use of money in the Grow Texas fund and allocating certain general revenues to that fund, the economic stabilization fund, and the state highway fund.
Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.
(Constitutional Amendment) Requires legislative approval of a proposed constitutional amendment in two sessions before being submitted to the electors for ratification