Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Texas House Bill HJR1

Filed
8/18/25  
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Sent toSOS
 
Proposed Const. Amend.
 

Caption

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 enacted, this constitutional amendment would significantly impact the way election law offenses are prosecuted within the state. Enabling the Attorney General to have concurrent jurisdiction means that the state will have a more centralized and authoritative approach to addressing election-related criminal activities. This could enhance the oversight and enforcement of election laws, leading to a potentially more rigorous legal environment regarding electoral offenses.

Summary

HJR1 proposes a constitutional amendment that specifies the authority of the Texas Attorney General to prosecute criminal offenses related to election laws. By amending Section 22, Article IV of the Texas Constitution, the bill aims to grant the Attorney General concurrent jurisdiction with county and district attorneys in prosecuting violations of election laws. This move is designed to reinforce the state's commitment to enforcing election integrity and maintaining lawful electoral practices in Texas.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HJR1 appears to be supportive among advocates of rigorous election laws who believe that strengthening the role of the Attorney General can help combat election fraud and ensure accountability. However, there may be concerns from those who view this amendment as an overreach of state power, possibly infringing upon local jurisdictions' abilities to prosecute such offenses independently. This could lead to a debate on the appropriate balance of power between state and local law enforcement.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around fears that elevating the Attorney General's prosecutorial authority could lead to political motivations behind prosecutions. Critics might argue that concentrating power at the state level undermines local governance and can result in disproportionate enforcement actions. This creates a dialogue on whether such centralization serves the people better or simply amplifies the existing political dynamics within state governance.

Companion Bills

TX HJR36

Duplicate Proposing a constitutional amendment specifying the authority of the attorney general to prosecute a criminal offense prescribed by the election laws of this state.

Previously Filed As

TX HJR1

Proposing a constitutional amendment specifying the authority of the attorney general to prosecute a criminal offense prescribed by the election laws of this state.

TX HJR6

Proposing a constitutional amendment specifying the authority of the attorney general to prosecute a criminal offense prescribed by the election laws of this state.

TX HJR7

Proposing a constitutional amendment specifying the authority of the attorney general to prosecute a criminal offense prescribed by the election laws of this state.

TX HJR110

Proposing a constitutional amendment specifying the authority of the attorney general to prosecute a criminal offense prescribed by the election laws of this state.

TX HJR98

Proposing a constitutional amendment specifying the authority of the attorney general to prosecute a criminal offense prescribed by the election laws of this state.

TX HJR103

Proposing a constitutional amendment specifying the authority of the attorney general to prosecute a criminal offense prescribed by the election laws of this state.

TX HJR160

Proposing a constitutional amendment specifying the authority of the attorney general to prosecute a criminal offense prescribed by the election laws of this state.

TX HJR189

Proposing a constitutional amendment specifying the authority of the attorney general to prosecute a criminal offense prescribed by the election laws of this state.

TX HJR15

Proposing a constitutional amendment specifying the authority of the attorney general to prosecute a criminal offense prescribed by the election laws of this state.

TX HJR150

Proposing a constitutional amendment specifying the authority of the attorney general to prosecute any criminal offense prescribed by the laws of this state.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.