Texas House Bill HJR84

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for legislative review or approval of state agency rules.

Impact

If passed, HJR84 will lead to the establishment of procedures that could govern how state agencies create and implement rules. The legislature would be empowered to determine conditions under which these rules take effect, as well as mechanisms for suspending or repealing rules. This shift represents a significant alteration of the balance of power between the legislative branch and state agencies, which might lead to more robust checks on executive actions and regulations.

Summary

HJR84 is a joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Texas Constitution that would authorize the state legislature to provide for the review or approval of rules adopted by agencies in the executive department. The proposed amendment aims to enhance legislative oversight over state agency operations, providing a framework for legislative involvement in the regulatory process. This change reflects a trend towards increasing accountability of state agencies to the elected representatives of the public.

Contention

Debates surrounding HJR84 center on the potential implications for administrative efficiency and the independence of state agencies. Proponents of the bill argue that increased legislative oversight is necessary to prevent agency overreach and to ensure that public policy is closely aligned with the views of elected officials. Conversely, critics raise concerns that such oversight could lead to delays in the rule-making process and may undermine the expertise of state agencies designed to implement specific regulations effectively.