Proposing a constitutional amendment to limit the time that a person may serve as speaker of the house of representatives.
Impact
The proposed amendment, if passed, will have significant implications for the governance structure within Texas. By introducing term limits for the Speaker role, it intends to curb the concentration of power among a few long-serving leaders. Supporters believe this will enhance legislative accountability and responsiveness, as new leaders may bring different priorities and policy approaches. However, it could also lead to challenges in continuity and experience in leadership roles.
Summary
HJR208 proposes a constitutional amendment to limit the duration that an individual may serve as the Speaker of the House of Representatives in Texas. Under this amendment, any member who has previously served as Speaker, even for part of a legislative session, would be ineligible for reelection to that position. This change aims to promote a rotation of leadership among the House members, thereby encouraging fresh perspectives and reducing the potential for entrenched leadership.
Contention
Discussions surrounding HJR208 reflect a division among legislators regarding the necessity and effectiveness of such limitations. Proponents argue that enforced rotation in the leadership position will democratize decision-making in the legislature and mitigate the risks of favoritism and partisanship that can arise with long-term incumbents. Conversely, opponents may assert that allowing experienced leaders to serve longer terms can provide stability and continuity, which is particularly valuable in managing the complexities of governance.
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.
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.
Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the lieutenant governor and speaker of the house of representatives to call the legislature into special session on petition of at least two-thirds of the members of each house of the legislature in response to a fiscal crisis, war, natural disaster, or emergency.
Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing a limitation on the total amount of ad valorem taxes that a county may impose on the residence homesteads of persons who are disabled or elderly and their surviving spouses.
Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the United States House of Representatives and the Texas Legislature.
Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing an independent redistricting commission to establish districts for the election of the members of the United States House of Representatives elected from this state, the Texas Senate, and the Texas House of Representatives.
Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing an independent redistricting commission to establish districts for the election of the members of the United States House of Representatives elected from this state, the Texas Senate, and the Texas House of Representatives.