Texas House Bill HJR66

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment to permit the attorney general to prosecute offenses against public administration, including ethics offenses, and offenses involving insurance fraud.

Impact

The introduction of HJR66 could significantly reshape the enforcement landscape concerning public administration crimes in Texas. It would empower the attorney general's office with broader prosecutorial authority, potentially leading to more rigorous investigations and prosecutions of ethics violations and fraudulent activities related to insurance. By streamlining these processes under the attorney general's office, supporters argue that it would enhance accountability and increase public trust in governmental institutions.

Summary

HJR66 is a proposed constitutional amendment in Texas that would allow the attorney general to prosecute criminal and civil offenses related to public administration. This includes offenses categorized as ethics violations as well as those associated with insurance fraud. The resolution seeks to add Section 22a to Article IV of the Texas Constitution, enabling the attorney general to act in both district and inferior courts for these specific offenses. The final decision regarding this amendment will be put to a public vote during the general election scheduled for November 3, 2009.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, the proposed amendment might face scrutiny or opposition from various stakeholders who may argue about the implications for local governance and the prosecution of misdemeanors. Critics could raise concerns about the centralization of prosecutorial power within the attorney general’s office, fearing that it may overlook local nuances in enforcement policies. Additionally, questions may arise regarding the capacity of the attorney general to handle an increase in caseloads following the approval of such expanded authority.