82R13291 T
By: Zedler H.B. No. 3424
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to the creation of the offense for knowingly influencing
or attempting to influence one or more members of the legislature
through coercion or an offer of a benefit to prevent a quorum;
providing penalties.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Chapter 36, Penal Code, is amended by adding
Section 36.11 to read as follows:
Sec. 36.11. PREVENTING A LEGISLATIVE QUORUM. (a) A person
commits an offense if he knowingly influences or attempts to
influence one or more members of the legislature to prevent a quorum
to do business by using:
(1) any form of coercion; or
(2) any offer of benefit.
(b) An offense under this section is a Class B misdemeanor.
SECTION 2. This Act takes effect immediately if it receives
a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as
provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution. If this
Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, this
Act takes effect September 1, 2011.