Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas House Bill HCR97

Introduced

3/11/11

Introduced

3/11/11

Refer

3/18/11

Refer

3/18/11

Caption

Memorializing the U.S. Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification a constitutional amendment requiring term limits for members of the U.S. House of Representatives.

Impact

If enacted, HCR97 would support the idea of imposing limits of four two-year terms on Representatives. This move seeks to promote competitive elections, reduce the influence of career politicians, and reinvigorate the concept of citizen legislators. Proponents argue that term limits will facilitate the entry of new ideas and perspectives into Congress, potentially leading to more responsive governance. Additionally, it seeks to balance the power dynamics between the executive and legislative branches of the federal government, drawing parallels to previous successes like the two-term limit for the presidency enacted in 1951.

Summary

HCR97 is a concurrent resolution from the Texas Legislature aimed at urging the U.S. Congress to propose a constitutional amendment establishing term limits for members of the House of Representatives. The resolution reflects the historical advocacy for term limits by notable founding figures such as Thomas Jefferson and George Washington, who recognized the need for a strong connection between government officials and the electorate they serve. The bill underscores the public's growing dissatisfaction with the incumbency rate in Congress, noting that it hovers around 96%, which many perceive as detrimental to democracy.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR97 is largely supportive among those advocating for major political reforms. Polls indicate a significant portion of the public, around 80%, favors implementing term limits for their legislative representatives. However, opponents of the bill may argue that term limits could lead to a loss of experienced lawmakers and hinder long-term legislative decision-making. This belief reflects a fundamental divide in how different stakeholders perceive the implications of term limits on the efficacy of governance.

Contention

The main contention within discussions around HCR97 revolves around the potential consequences of imposing term limits. Advocates stress that such limits would enhance accountability and prevent entrenched interests from monopolizing power in Congress. Critics, however, caution that the quick rotation of elected officials might reduce the overall effectiveness of legislative work and impede the development of long-term policies critical to national interests. Thus, the debate highlights significant philosophical differences regarding the balance between democratic ideals of representation and the practical intricacies of legislative governance.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SCR17

Urging Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification the "Keep Nine" amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

TX HCR22

Urging Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification the "Keep Nine" amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

TX HCR7

Urging the U.S. Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification a federal balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

TX HCR20

Urging the U.S. Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification a federal balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

TX HCR5

Urging the U.S. Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification a federal balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

TX HJR15

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing an independent redistricting commission to establish districts for the election of the members of the United States House of Representatives elected from this state, the Texas Senate, and the Texas House of Representatives.

TX SJR12

TX HJR200

Ratifying a proposed amendment to the Constitution of the United States relating to the number of representatives in the United States House of Representatives.

TX HJR83

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the Texas Legislature and Texas congressional districts and revising procedures for redistricting.

TX SJR16

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the Texas Legislature and Texas congressional districts and revising procedures for redistricting.

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