Texas House Bill HCR7

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Granting the legislature permission to adjourn for more than three days during the period beginning on Wednesday, March 6, 2019, and ending on Monday, March 11, 2019.

Impact

The adoption of HCR7 allows the Texas Legislature to manage its time more effectively, particularly in the context of pressing legislative matters and the finalization of bills before the session concludes. By permitting an extended adjournment, legislators can allocate more time for deliberation and debate, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency of the legislative process. This could lead to more thorough consideration of significant legislative proposals and help legislators conclude outstanding business before the deadline.

Summary

HCR7, known as the House Concurrent Resolution 7, pertains to the Texas Legislature's ability to adjourn its sessions. Specifically, it grants permission for both houses of the legislature to adjourn for more than three days during a specified period from March 6, 2019, to March 11, 2019. This resolution follows a provision within Section 17, Article III of the Texas Constitution, which restricts either house from adjourning for an extended period without mutual consent. The intent of HCR7 is to facilitate legislative operations by allowing more flexibility in scheduling, particularly toward the end of the legislative session when final decisions and votes are often aligned.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR7 was overwhelmingly positive, as indicated by the unanimous votes in both the House (yeas 144, nays 0) and Senate (yeas 31, nays 0). Legislators recognized the necessity of adapting the legislative schedule to the demands of governance. This resolution was seen as a practical step to ensure that vital legislative tasks could be completed effectively, reflecting a collaborative spirit within the legislature.

Contention

There were no notable points of contention regarding HCR7 during its discussions and voting process. The resolution's unanimous approval signifies a shared understanding among legislators of the need for procedural flexibility. However, it also emphasizes an ongoing commitment to legislative responsibilities, ensuring that state governance remains responsive and functional. Nevertheless, such resolutions often spark discussions about the balance of power and procedural norms within legislative bodies.