Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing each house of the legislature to determine the order of business for that house.
Note
HJR151 is set to be presented to voters for approval during an election scheduled for November 4, 2025. This gives the public an opportunity to weigh in on the proposed amendment, emphasizing the democratic process in altering constitutional provisions.
Impact
Should HJR151 be enacted, it would modify the procedural requirements currently found in Sections 5(b) and (c) of Article III of the Texas Constitution. By amending these sections, the bill removes the stipulations that necessitate specific procedures in the first thirty days of a session and instead allows each house to establish its order of business based on a straightforward majority vote. This shift could streamline legislative processes and reduce bureaucratic delays, as houses may prioritize and arrange their agenda as necessary without adhering to the previously mandated structure.
Summary
HJR151 is a joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Texas Constitution which empowers each house of the legislature to determine its own order of business through a majority vote. This amendment seeks to provide legislative bodies with the autonomy to manage their proceedings, potentially allowing for greater flexibility in scheduling and handling legislative matters. The proposed change addresses the existing structure outlined in Article III, which places certain procedural mandates on how each house should conduct its business, especially during the early days of the session.
Contention
The proposal could generate discussion regarding the balance of power within the legislative framework. Supporters argue that this flexibility is essential for a responsive and efficient legislative process, enabling quicker adaptations to emerging issues. However, critics might voice concerns about the potential for arbitrary changes in order, which could impact transparency and fairness in legislative actions. The ability to determine such orders could disproportionately favor the majority party and sideline minority members' involvement in the legislative process.