Creating a Special Committee on Impeachment to consider the impeachment of Judge Sharon Keller of the Court of Criminal Appeals for gross neglect of duty and conducting her official duties with willful disregard for human life.
Impact
If enacted, the resolution would empower a specially appointed committee to thoroughly investigate the cited grievances against Judge Keller. The committee's findings would be crucial for determining if impeachment articles should be drafted and presented to the Texas Senate. The establishment of this committee is a significant move in addressing perceived judicial improprieties, potentially reshaping the accountability mechanisms for judges in Texas and impacting public trust in the judicial system.
Summary
HR480 seeks to establish a special committee in the Texas House of Representatives to investigate the possible impeachment of Judge Sharon Keller, the Presiding Judge of the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals. This resolution arises from allegations of gross neglect of duty and conducting her official duties with willful disregard for human life following her actions on September 25, 2007, which purportedly led to the unlawful execution of a capital defendant without proper due process. The bill underscores the house's constitutional authority to consider articles of impeachment against state officers.
Contention
The resolution highlights a noteworthy point of contention regarding judicial accountability and the standards by which judges are evaluated in Texas. Supporters of HR480 argue that it is essential for the rule of law and integrity of the criminal justice system to hold judges accountable for possible failings that could jeopardize human lives. Conversely, critics may perceive this move as politically motivated or an infringement on judicial independence, raising concerns about the implications for the judiciary if such measures become commonplace.
Proposing a constitutional amendment providing requirements for the exercise of the power of impeachment by the House of Representatives and providing that officers against whom articles of impeachment are preferred receive pay during the pendency of impeachment proceedings.
Proposing a constitutional amendment providing requirements for the exercise of the power of impeachment by the House of Representatives and providing that officers against whom articles of impeachment are preferred receive pay during the pendency of impeachment proceedings.
Relating to the state's continuing duty to disclose exculpatory, impeachment, or mitigating evidence in a criminal case and prohibited retaliation against local assistant prosecutors for discharging that duty.
Relating to the release of defendants on bail, the duties of a magistrate in certain criminal proceedings, and the appointment of certain criminal law hearing officers; creating a criminal offense.
Campaign finance: contributions and expenditures; provision related to officeholders raising funds when facing a recall; modify, and require candidate to establish a separate account used for recall purposes. Amends secs. 3, 11, 12, 21, 24 & 52 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.203 et seq.) & adds sec. 21b.
Campaign finance: contributions and expenditures; funds donated to a candidate for recall efforts; require candidate to establish a separate account used for recall purposes. Amends secs. 3, 11, 12, 21, 24 & 52 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.203 et seq.) & adds sec. 21b.
A concurrent resolution recognizing wild rice as sacred and central to the culture and health of Indigenous Peoples in Minnesota and critical to the health and identity of all Minnesota citizens and ecosystems and establishing a commitment to passing legislation to protect wild rice and the freshwater resources upon which it depends.