Texas House Bill HR21

Texas 2021 - 87th 3rd C.S.

Caption

Amending the permanent rules of the House of Representatives to provide for the imposition of penalties on absent members.

Impact

The proposed changes to HR21 will significantly alter how the House manages attendance and ensure that absent members face consequences for their lack of presence. By enabling the imposition of penalties, the legislation seeks to increase accountability among representatives. This move is particularly relevant in light of discussions concerning the effectiveness and efficiency of legislative processes, as absences can hinder decision-making and delay critical votes.

Summary

House Bill 21 aims to amend the permanent rules of the House of Representatives, specifically addressing the procedural handling of members' absences during sessions. The key provisions entail establishing penalties for members who are absent when a quorum is not present, allowing for more rigorous enforcement of attendance among legislators. The amendments specify motions that may be made when a quorum is lacking and outline penalties such as removal from committee positions and loss of privileges.

Contention

While proponents of HR21 argue that imposing penalties will foster a more dedicated legislative environment, critics may see it as an overreach that could deter representatives from voicing dissent or participating fully in debates. There are concerns that the rigid enforcement of attendance could create an atmosphere of intimidation among members, especially for those facing legitimate reasons for absence. The balance between accountability and the collaborative spirit of legislative work will likely be a point of contention as discussions around this bill progress.