Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HJR118

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Sent toSOS
 
Proposed Const. Amend.
 

Caption

Applying to the Congress of the United States to call a convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for the limited purpose of proposing an amendment to the constitution to limit the terms of office of members of Congress.

Impact

If adopted, HJR118 could have significant ramifications for the governance of the United States, particularly concerning the structure and operation of Congress. The establishment of term limits would require an amendment to the Constitution, thereby altering the long-standing practice of lifelong incumbency in Congress. This change could lead to a more equitable representation of the electorate by allowing a larger and more diverse group of citizens the opportunity to serve in Congress. However, it may also pose challenges related to the loss of potentially experienced lawmakers who possess institutional knowledge that is vital for effective governance.

Summary

HJR118 is a joint resolution that seeks to apply to the United States Congress for the purpose of calling a convention under Article V of the U.S. Constitution. The focused aim of this resolution is to propose an amendment that would enforce term limits on members of Congress. Proponents of this measure argue that imposing term limits would enhance government accountability and bring fresh perspectives to legislative bodies. They contend that long tenures in office contribute to stagnation and detachment from constituent needs. By rotating representatives more frequently, advocates believe the political landscape will become more dynamic and responsive to the public.

Contention

The proposal for term limits has sparked considerable debate among lawmakers and constituents. Supporters of HJR118 emphasize the necessity for reform in a political system perceived as increasingly careerist, where elected officials may prioritize personal advancement over public service. Conversely, opponents caution that term limits might inadvertently diminish legislative effectiveness by reducing continuity and expertise within Congress. Critics also argue that voters should have the ultimate authority to decide who serves based on election outcomes, rather than an imposed limitation on tenure. This tension underscores a broader discussion about the balance between accountability and representation in a democratic system.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HJR35

Rescinding the automatic rescission of certain applications made by the Texas Legislature to the United States Congress to call a national convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for proposing any amendment to that constitution.

TX SJR36

Rescinding the automatic rescission of certain applications made by the Texas Legislature to the United States Congress to call a national convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for proposing any amendment to that constitution.

TX SJR52

Extending the deadline for the automatic rescission of certain applications made by the Texas Legislature to the United States Congress to call a national convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for proposing any amendment to that constitution.

TX SJR16

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the Texas Legislature and Texas congressional districts and revising procedures for redistricting.

TX HJR83

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the Texas Legislature and Texas congressional districts and revising procedures for redistricting.

TX HJR48

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the Texas Legislature, Texas congressional districts, and State Board of Education districts and revising procedures for redistricting.

TX HJR200

Ratifying a proposed amendment to the Constitution of the United States relating to the number of representatives in the United States House of Representatives.

TX SJR35

Proposing a constitutional amendment clarifying that a voter must be a United States citizen.

TX HJR7

Proposing a constitutional amendment clarifying that a voter must be a United States citizen.

TX HJR127

Proposing a constitutional amendment to limit the time that a person may serve as a member of the Texas Legislature or as a statewide elected officer in the executive branch to 12 consecutive years.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.