Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas House Bill HR1

Caption

Granting privileges of the floor for the house.

Impact

The resolution is anticipated to impact the dynamics of legislative access and transparency. By restricting the number of individuals allowed on the house floor, HR1 reinforces the authority of the legislature in controlling who participates in its deliberative processes. This could inadvertently lead to criticisms regarding accessibility to the legislative process for the public and other stakeholders, such as lobbyists and interest groups who may traditionally have had more open access to representatives and legislative activities.

Summary

House Resolution 1 (HR1) introduced in the Texas House of Representatives aims to establish specific privileges concerning access to the house floor during the ongoing legislative session. The resolution is directed at maintaining order and security within the legislative space, specifically by limiting access exclusively to members of the legislature, their families, the secretary of state, temporary officers, their staff, and approved guests or press representatives. This measure is a procedural move that paves the way for the proper functioning of the legislature during the election of the speaker.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HR1 is likely to be mixed. Proponents will argue that the resolution is essential for ensuring legislative order and protecting the integrity of the house during crucial moments such as the selection of leadership. Conversely, sceptics may perceive it as a move towards increased insulation of legislative members from public scrutiny, potentially diminishing the transparency and accountability of legislative actions.

Contention

The main contention surrounding HR1 hinges on the balance between maintaining order within the legislative process and ensuring public accountability and access to legislators. Advocates for the resolution emphasize its necessity in preserving security and proper legislative functions during sensitive periods, while opponents may express concern over the potential silencing of civic engagement and public scrutiny, suggesting that the resolution could set a precedent for further access restrictions in the future.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1767

Relating to the granting of privileges at hospitals for podiatrists.

TX HR323

Granting permission for the floor of the House to be opened on April 30, 2023, for Boy Scouts of America Troop 5.

TX HR1340

Granting permission for the floor of the House to be opened on May 7, 2023, for the UT Austin Air Force ROTC commissioning ceremony.

TX SB730

Relating to the granting of privileges to and the authority of podiatrists at hospitals.

TX HR82

Granting permission for the use of the chamber of the Texas House of Representatives by Skills USA on February 20, 2023.

TX HR2045

Granting permission for use of the chamber of the Texas House of Representatives for the Fallen Heroes Memorial Service on May 27, 2023.

TX HR69

Granting permission for the use of the chamber of the Texas House of Representatives by the YMCA Texas Youth and Government Program on January 28, March 3, and March 4, 2023.

TX HR125

Granting permission for use of the chamber of the Texas House of Representatives by the Texas DeMolay Association on February 11 and 12, 2023, and February 10 and 11, 2024.

TX HR3

Adopting the Housekeeping Resolution for the House of Representatives of the 88th Legislature.

TX HB1538

Relating to parking privileges for disabled veterans.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.