Texas House Bill HJR46

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

• Filed: 11/18/14

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment on the length of legislative terms and limiting to three the number of terms for which a person may be elected or appointed to the legislature or certain state offices.

Impact

If passed, HJR46 would legally bind elected officials to adhere to these term limits, which proponents argue would rejuvenate the legislature by encouraging new candidates to enter politics and providing voters with fresh perspectives and ideas. Currently, there are no term limits for state legislators in Texas, meaning incumbents can serve indefinitely as long as they continue to win elections. Thus, this bill could significantly change the dynamics of Texas political elections and governance.

Summary

HJR46 proposes a constitutional amendment to the Texas Constitution aimed at limiting the number of terms legislative members may serve. Specifically, it seeks to restrict state senators and representatives to a maximum of three terms, whether consecutive or nonconsecutive. This resolution seeks to modify Sections 3 and 4 of Article III and add new sections to Article IV of the constitution, reflecting a significant shift in the approach to legislative service in Texas. The bill is presented as an effort to enhance political accountability and limit the entrenchment of incumbents in power due to long tenures.

Contention

Notably, the introduction of term limits is a contentious issue among politicians and constituents alike. Supporters assert that imposing term limits can combat corruption and ensure that legislators remain responsive to the needs of their constituents, while critics argue that experienced lawmakers are more effective and that term limits may remove capable individuals from office prematurely. Additionally, there are concerns regarding the implementation of such a measure, including the effects on legislative continuity and the potential influx of inexperienced individuals into important positions.