Texas House Bill HJR146

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment to limit the time that a person may serve as a member of the Texas Legislature or as a statewide elected officer in the executive branch.

Impact

If ratified, this bill is expected to reshape the landscape of Texas politics significantly. Proponents argue that enforcing term limits will rejuvenate the legislative body, increase accountability among lawmakers, and enhance democratic representation by allowing more individuals to participate in government. Critics, however, may contend that term limits could lead to a loss of experienced legislators and institutional knowledge, potentially creating gaps in effective governance as newly elected officials acclimate to their roles. The implications for state laws center around the balance of power within the legislature and whether such limits will serve the will of the voters or restrict their choices.

Summary

HJR146 proposes a significant modification to the Texas Constitution by introducing term limits for members of the Texas Legislature and statewide elected officers in the executive branch. Specifically, the resolution stipulates that individuals may not serve more than seven regular sessions in the House of Representatives and four regular sessions in the Senate. This amendment aims to promote turnover within legislative positions, thereby encouraging new perspectives and reducing the potential for entrenched political power. The measure also excludes any legislative service before the 2015 session from counting towards these limits, ensuring that some current legislators are not immediately impacted by the change.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HJR146 appears to be mixed. Supporters, often from grassroots movements or reform-oriented organizations, champion the bill as a way to break the cycle of political stagnation and advocate for fresh voices within the legislature. On the contrary, some political insiders and veteran legislators may view it with skepticism, fearing that it undermines the ability to re-elect capable representatives who can effectively navigate complex issues over prolonged periods. This ongoing debate around the importance of experience versus renewal in governance frames the larger discourse on how best to achieve effective representation.

Contention

Notable points of contention in the discourse around HJR146 include concerns about the unintended consequences of term limits on legislative effectiveness and institutional continuity. While the intention is to limit the potential for corruption and complacency among lawmakers, opponents argue that such measures could inadvertently empower lobbyists and special interests who possess greater experience and influence than newly elected representatives. Consequently, this proposed amendment invites a broader discussion on maintaining a balance between innovation in governance and the necessity of seasoned legislators who can guide new members through the complexities of state policy.