Proposing a constitutional amendment regarding the execution or enforcement of federal laws that violate the Bill of Rights of the Texas Constitution.
Impact
The proposed amendment seeks significant alterations in how Texas interacts with federal laws. Specifically, it allows the legislature to officially determine whether a federal law violates the Texas Constitution's Bill of Rights. If such a violation is determined, state agencies and political subdivisions would be prohibited from executing such federal laws. This could effectively create a broader legal gap between state and federal authority, pending legislative findings.
Summary
SJR7 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment that addresses the execution or enforcement of federal laws deemed to violate the Bill of Rights of the Texas Constitution. The resolution asserts the state's policy to refuse participation in any federal law execution that the Texas legislature finds to infringe upon its constitutional rights. This initiative aims to reinforce state sovereignty and create a framework for evaluating federal laws against state constitutional standards.
Contention
Debate surrounding SJR7 may revolve around its implications for state-federal relations and the legislative power's reach. Proponents argue that the resolution enhances Texas's ability to protect its citizens from potentially overreaching federal policies, encouraging state autonomy. Opponents, however, may raise concerns that the amendment could foster legal uncertainty and jeopardize cooperation between state and federal governments, possibly undermining essential federal programs and regulations.
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.
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 to 12 consecutive years.
Proposing a constitutional amendment regarding the powers of the governor, the legislature, and the supreme court following certain disaster or emergency declarations.