Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1775

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the composition of the districts for the election of members of the Texas Senate.

Impact

The bill replaces previous legislation concerning district compositions, effectively superseding any former maps that designated Senate districts. This enactment of updated districts aims to ensure fair representation within the Texas Senate. By clearly delineating boundaries based on population statistics and census data, the bill serves to enhance voter representation and ensure compliance with legal and electoral standards. The districts defined by SB1775 are to be applicable starting with the elections for the members of the 83rd Legislature.

Summary

SB1775 is a legislative bill proposed in Texas aimed at establishing the composition of election districts for the Texas Senate. The bill outlines the specific counties, tracts, and block groups that will form each of the Senate districts, utilizing established geographies as determined by the U.S. Census and the Texas Legislative Council. The intent is to create a clear, defined structure for Senate elections, ensuring that each district is represented by one senator, thereby facilitating a more organized electoral process.

Sentiment

The reception of SB1775 appears to be largely supportive among those who recognize the necessity for clearly defined electoral districts that align with updated demographic data. However, concerns remain amongst some stakeholders regarding potential implications for local representation and the administrative challenges that may arise in implementing these changes. Critics may argue that alterations to district lines could alter the balance of representation, potentially disadvantaging certain communities. Still, proponents assert that the bill will bolster electoral integrity through enhanced clarity.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding SB1775 may arise from debates over the process of redistricting itself, which historically has been fraught with disputes over gerrymandering and political maneuvering. Concerns regarding the accuracy of Census data and the potential disenfranchisement of voters in newly defined districts may surface as significant issues. Furthermore, stakeholders will likely scrutinize the bill's provisions ensuring its compliance with federal mandates on voter representation and equality, as any perceived discrepancies could lead to future legal challenges.

Companion Bills

TX SB31

Duplicate Relating to the composition of the districts for the election of members of the Texas Senate.

Previously Filed As

TX SB375

Relating to the composition of districts for the election of members of the Texas Senate.

TX HB5394

Relating to the powers, duties, territory, and governance of the Westwood Magnolia Parkway Improvement District.

TX SB2618

Relating to the powers, duties, territory, and governance of the Westwood Magnolia Parkway Improvement District.

TX HB1000

Relating to the composition of districts for the election of members of the Texas House of Representatives.

TX HB5398

Relating to the creation of the West Lake Ranch Municipal Management District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments, fees, and taxes.

TX HJR15

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.

TX SJR12

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.

TX HB4115

Relating to eligibility for membership on and the regulation of horse racing by the Texas Racing Commission and a prohibition on the conduct of greyhound or other dog racing as live events in this state; creating a criminal offense; authorizing a fee.

TX HB5223

Relating to the amount of certain motor vehicle sales and use taxes and penalties that certain counties may retain each year.

TX SB1521

Relating to the amount of certain motor vehicle sales and use taxes and penalties that certain counties may retain each year.

Similar Bills

TX SB2265

Relating to the Gulf Coast Waste Disposal Authority and expanding the territory and powers of the authority; authorizing fees and the issuance of bonds.

TX HB4308

Relating to the Gulf Coast Waste Disposal Authority and expanding the territory and powers of the authority; authorizing fees and the issuance of bonds.

TX HR942

In memory of former presiding judge John F. "Jack" Onion Jr. of the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals.

TX HR2349

Commending Pauline Mouton of Beaumont for her contributions as an educator, volunteer, and civic leader.

TX HB3029

Relating to the creation of the Gulf Coast Protection District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose fees; providing authority to impose a tax; granting the power of eminent domain.

TX SB1160

Relating to the creation of the Gulf Coast Protection District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose fees; providing authority to impose a tax; granting the power of eminent domain.

TX HR255

In memory of Daniel G. San Miguel, Jr., of San Antonio.

TX HR769

Congratulating Dr. George Norvell Smith on his receipt of the 2017 Osteopathic Family Physician of the Year Award from the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians.