Texas Senate Bill SCR47

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Caption

Granting the legislature permission to adjourn for more than three days during the period beginning on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, and ending on Tuesday, April 22, 2025.

Impact

The passage of SCR47 reflects an administrative aspect of legislative operations. By permitting this extended adjournment, the resolution ensures that legislative activities can accommodate necessary breaks to facilitate discussions, preparations, or negotiations outside the formal session's constraints. This could potentially aid in more effective governance, particularly in periods of high legislative activity or when extensive deliberations on pending legislation are required.

Summary

SCR47 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution aimed at granting permission for the Texas Legislature to adjourn for more than three days during a specific period, from April 16, 2025, to April 22, 2025. This resolution is in accordance with Section 17, Article III of the Texas Constitution, which typically prohibits either house from adjourning for more than three days without the consent of the other house. The resolution was adopted by both the Senate and the House on April 14, 2025.

Contention

While SCR47 garnered widespread support, notably passing the Senate with a vote of 31 to 0 and the House by 132 to 11, it highlights ongoing discussions regarding legislative efficiency and time management. Critics of such resolutions argue that extended adjournments may lead to delays in addressing pressing legislative issues, while supporters contend that they are essential for proper legislative function and pacing. The opposition's presence in the House vote underscores a divide over legislative scheduling priorities.