Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HJR120

Caption

Applying to Congress for a limited national convention for the exclusive purpose of proposing an amendment to the United States Constitution to restore balance and integrity to our elections.

Impact

If passed, HJR120 would mark a significant step in Texas's legislative approach to election reform. It emphasizes the state's strategy to pursue a constitutional amendment through a method outlined in Article V of the U.S. Constitution, which allows for a convention when two-thirds of state legislatures apply. This move could encourage other states to follow suit, potentially leading to a nationwide dialogue on electoral integrity and the influence of money in politics.

Summary

HJR120 is a joint resolution introduced in the Texas legislature that seeks to apply to Congress for a limited national convention. The primary objective of this convention is to propose an amendment to the United States Constitution that aims to restore balance and integrity to the country's electoral process. This initiative arises from growing concerns regarding the influence of powerful special interests on elections, diminishing the democratic principle that representatives should solely depend on the electorate. By addressing this imbalance, proponents argue that the amendment would enhance the fairness and accessibility of elections across the nation.

Contention

Despite broad support for electoral reform, HJR120 may encounter opposition regarding the implications of convening a national convention. Critics argue that such conventions could open the door to unintended changes to the Constitution, raising concerns about the potential for broader reforms than what is currently intended. The resolution includes clauses that attempt to limit the scope of the convention to ensure it focuses strictly on electoral amendments, which may not alleviate fears among opponents regarding broader constitutional implications.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HJR35

Rescinding the automatic rescission of certain applications made by the Texas Legislature to the United States Congress to call a national convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for proposing any amendment to that constitution.

TX SJR36

TX SJR52

Extending the deadline for the automatic rescission of certain applications made by the Texas Legislature to the United States Congress to call a national convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for proposing any amendment to that constitution.

TX HCR20

Urging the U.S. Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification a federal balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

TX HCR5

Urging the U.S. Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification a federal balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

TX HCR7

Urging the U.S. Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification a federal balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

TX HJR83

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the Texas Legislature and Texas congressional districts and revising procedures for redistricting.

TX SJR16

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the Texas Legislature and Texas congressional districts and revising procedures for redistricting.

TX HJR33

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for an annual state budget and annual legislative sessions for budget purposes.

TX HJR48

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the Texas Legislature, Texas congressional districts, and State Board of Education districts and revising procedures for redistricting.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.