Texas Senate Bill SJR50

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to review and terminate an order issued by the governor during a state of disaster or emergency declared by the governor.

Impact

This amendment, if passed, could drastically alter the dynamics of power between the executive and legislative branches in emergency situations. Proponents argue that it would provide a necessary check on the governor's power, ensuring that the legislative body, which represents the citizens, has a say in critical decisions made during times of crisis. This could lead to increased accountability and prevent any potential abuse of power during states of emergency.

Summary

SJR50 proposes a significant change to the Texas Constitution by introducing a provision that would empower the state legislature to review and potentially terminate any orders issued by the governor during a state of disaster or emergency. Currently, the governor has broad authority to enact such orders without immediate oversight from the legislative branch. According to this joint resolution, the legislature would have the authority to terminate these orders through a majority vote during either regular or special sessions.

Contention

Opponents of SJR50 might raise concerns regarding the potential delays in decision-making that could arise from legislative involvement in emergency management. There are fears that requiring legislative oversight could hinder swift responses that are often necessary during disasters, thereby undermining public safety. Furthermore, critics could contend that this amendment would politicize emergency management, as decisions could become subject to partisan debates rather than being based on urgent public health and safety needs. Such considerations put SJR50 at the center of ongoing discussions regarding the balance of power in state governance.