Texas Senate Bill SJR29

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the governor to call the legislature into special session following certain disaster or emergency declarations and specifying the powers of the legislature in those special sessions.

Impact

If adopted, this constitutional amendment would significantly alter the procedural dynamics between the executive and legislative branches during emergencies. With this change, the legislature would gain expanded powers to review and potentially modify the governor’s emergency declarations and actions taken during the preceding 90 days. Supporters argue that this capability is essential for providing an additional layer of checks and balances, ensuring that emergency measures reflect both legislative intent and public consensus.

Summary

SJR29 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment that mandates the governor to call the legislature into special session under certain circumstances related to disasters or emergencies. Specifically, the bill requires the governor to convene the legislature if a declared state of disaster or emergency persists for more than 21 days or upon receipt of a petition from two-thirds of both legislative houses. This proposal aims to enhance legislative oversight and responsiveness during emergencies, allowing for a more structured mechanism for legislative input in times of crisis.

Contention

Critics of SJR29 may express concerns regarding the potential for delaying emergency responses due to extended legislative processes. There is a debate surrounding the appropriate balance of power between the governor, who is responsible for immediate action in emergencies, and the legislature, which represents broader public interests. Some lawmakers may worry that the requirement to convene the legislature could lead to inefficiencies that ultimately hinder effective disaster management.

Notable_points

The proposal is scheduled for a voter referendum, allowing the public to decide on this significant change to the Texas Constitution. The implications of SJR29 could be far-reaching, particularly in how future administrations handle emergency situations. There exists a potential for both fostering greater accountability and introducing complexities in the governance of public safety during crises.