Texas House Bill HR480

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Introduced: 2/16/09
• Refer: 2/23/09

Caption

Creating a Special Committee on Impeachment to consider the impeachment of Judge Sharon Keller of the Court of Criminal Appeals for gross neglect of duty and conducting her official duties with willful disregard for human life.

Impact

If enacted, the resolution would empower a specially appointed committee to thoroughly investigate the cited grievances against Judge Keller. The committee's findings would be crucial for determining if impeachment articles should be drafted and presented to the Texas Senate. The establishment of this committee is a significant move in addressing perceived judicial improprieties, potentially reshaping the accountability mechanisms for judges in Texas and impacting public trust in the judicial system.

Summary

HR480 seeks to establish a special committee in the Texas House of Representatives to investigate the possible impeachment of Judge Sharon Keller, the Presiding Judge of the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals. This resolution arises from allegations of gross neglect of duty and conducting her official duties with willful disregard for human life following her actions on September 25, 2007, which purportedly led to the unlawful execution of a capital defendant without proper due process. The bill underscores the house's constitutional authority to consider articles of impeachment against state officers.

Contention

The resolution highlights a noteworthy point of contention regarding judicial accountability and the standards by which judges are evaluated in Texas. Supporters of HR480 argue that it is essential for the rule of law and integrity of the criminal justice system to hold judges accountable for possible failings that could jeopardize human lives. Conversely, critics may perceive this move as politically motivated or an infringement on judicial independence, raising concerns about the implications for the judiciary if such measures become commonplace.