Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB137

Filed
11/14/16  
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to filling certain vacancies in nomination by special primary election.

Impact

The proposed changes in HB 137 are expected to have a significant impact on election procedures within the state of Texas. By formalizing the process for handling vacancies, the bill aims to streamline nominations and maintain the integrity of the electoral process. This could help ensure that elections are conducted smoothly and that constituencies are adequately represented, even when unforeseen circumstances affect candidates. Additionally, the bill requires detailed certifications regarding the vacancies, including the cause of the vacancy and the results of any special primary elections, which increases accountability within the nomination process.

Summary

House Bill 137 pertains to the procedures for filling vacancies in political nominations through special primary elections. The bill specifically outlines the process that must be followed if a candidate's name is to be omitted from the ballot, especially in cases of a candidate's death. This legislation empowers political party executive committees at various levels—state, district, county, or precinct—to nominate replacement candidates in such scenarios, thus ensuring that a candidate can be chosen to fill a vacancy even in the event of an unopposed race.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 137 appears to be largely supportive among lawmakers who recognize the need for a structured approach to filling electoral vacancies. There’s an acknowledgment of the potential disruptions that can arise from candidate withdrawals, hence the push for a clear, codified response. However, it remains crucial for the party committees to adhere to this new structure, suggesting a level of concern regarding the uniform implementation of the rules across different political entities. Overall, the bill seems to enjoy bipartisan support, focusing on maintaining electoral consistency.

Contention

Although the legislative intent behind HB 137 is to provide clarity and enhance the electoral nomination process, discussions surrounding it may highlight tensions between political parties over operational control and the interpretation of the rules. Some stakeholders might raise questions about the fairness of a party managing its own special primary elections, particularly in closely contested districts. The provisions requiring a certification process may also create administrative burdens for party officials, which could lead to disputes about compliance and the execution of replacement nominations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB2531

Relating to nominations by primary election by all political parties.

TX SB1705

Relating to nominations by primary election by certain political parties.

TX HB1112

Relating to preferential voting in a primary election.

TX SB994

Relating to the declaration of a candidate's ineligibility on the basis of failure to pay a filing fee or submit a petition in lieu of a filing fee.

TX HB239

Relating to requiring a voter to be affiliated with a political party to vote in that party's primary election or otherwise participate in that party's affairs; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB87

Relating to the presidential electors of this state.

TX SB2246

Relating to the presidential electors of this state.

TX HB294

Relating to the separation of federal elections from state and local elections, and to related practices and procedures.

TX SB398

Relating to the separation of federal elections from state and local elections, and to related practices and procedures.

TX HB32

Relating to the separation of federal elections from state and local elections, and to related practices and procedures.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.