Texas 2021 - 87th 1st C.S.

Texas House Bill HJR13

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment to allow the legislature to override a veto of the governor following a legislative session.

Impact

If enacted, HJR13 could lead to a transformative shift in the legislative process in Texas. The proposed changes would allow the legislature to convene and reconsider vetoed legislation under specific circumstances, particularly if a bill is returned by the governor close to the legislature's adjournment. This alteration in the law means that the legislative body may not be constrained by a governor's vetoes that could potentially stall important legislation due to political disagreements, thereby fostering a more proactive legislative environment.

Summary

HJR13 is a joint resolution proposing a significant constitutional amendment aimed at empowering the state legislature of Texas with the authority to override a governor's veto after a legislative session. The amendment seeks to amend Section 14 of Article IV of the Texas Constitution, which currently dictates the process by which bills are presented to the Governor for approval and outlines the mechanisms for vetoes and subsequent legislations. By allowing the legislature to potentially override a veto, supporters argue that it enhances the balance of power between the legislature and the executive branch during critical decision-making periods.

Contention

Debate surrounding HJR13 is likely to center on the implications of empowering the legislature at the expense of the governor's executive authority. Critics may argue that this amendment undermines the checks and balances inherent in the state government framework, as it may allow for legislative action without the requirement of gubernatorial consent. Proponents, conversely, might contend that this measure enhances democratic processes by enabling elected representatives to have a greater say in governance, especially in instances where public policies initiated by lawmakers align with constituents' interests despite a governor's objections.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HJR148

Proposing a constitutional amendment to allow the legislature to override a veto of the governor following a legislative session.

TX SJR61

Proposing a constitutional amendment to allow the legislature to override a veto of the governor following a regular session of the legislature.

TX HJR66

Proposing a constitutional amendment to remove the governor's line-item veto authority.

TX SJR11

Proposing a constitutional amendment to remove the governor's line-item veto authority.

TX HJR50

Proposing a constitutional amendment allowing the legislature to establish a special district to be the seat of state government.

TX SJR71

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.

TX HJR33

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

TX HJR46

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing legislative action at any time during a regular session of the legislature.

TX SJR65

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing legislative action at any time during a regular session of the legislature.

TX HJR69

Proposing a constitutional amendment to set the salaries of members of the legislature and the lieutenant governor based on the average public school teacher salary in this state.