Proposing a constitutional amendment specifying the authority of the attorney general to prosecute a criminal offense prescribed by the election laws of this state.
Impact
If passed, HJR15 would grant the Attorney General concurrent jurisdiction alongside local prosecutors in enforcing and prosecuting violations related to election laws. This could enhance the oversight of election-related activities and reinforce the enforcement of election integrity. Supporters argue that this provision would provide a more robust framework for addressing election offenses at the state level, ensuring that such matters are handled with the appropriate legal authority.
Summary
HJR15 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment to clarify and specify the authority of the Attorney General of Texas to prosecute criminal offenses that are prescribed by the state's election laws. The resolution aims to amend Section 22 of Article IV of the Texas Constitution, thereby reinforcing the dual jurisdiction shared by the Attorney General and county or district attorneys in such matters. The amendment is set to be put to a vote by the public on November 4, 2025, which will determine its adoption into the state constitution.
Contention
Despite the potential benefits, HJR15 may also ignite contention regarding the role of the Attorney General versus local officials in prosecuting election-related offenses. Critics might express concerns about the centralization of prosecutorial power, potentially leading to a contentious political environment where local elections are scrutinized beyond their intended jurisdiction. The amendment could also lead to differing interpretations of election laws, raising questions about the proper conduct of electoral processes in Texas.
Proposing a constitutional amendment specifying the authority of the attorney general to prosecute a criminal offense prescribed by the election laws of this state.
Proposing a constitutional amendment specifying the authority of the attorney general to prosecute a criminal offense prescribed by the election laws of this state.
Proposing a constitutional amendment specifying the authority of the attorney general to prosecute a criminal offense prescribed by the election laws of this state.
Proposing a constitutional amendment specifying the authority of the attorney general to prosecute a criminal offense prescribed by the election laws of this state.
Proposing a constitutional amendment specifying the authority of the attorney general to prosecute a criminal offense prescribed by the election laws of this state.
Proposing a constitutional amendment specifying the authority of the attorney general to prosecute any criminal offense prescribed by the laws of this state.
Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the attorney general to prosecute a criminal offense committed by a peace officer acting in the course and scope of the officer's official duties.