Proposing a constitutional amendment providing that a legislator who is absent without excuse for an extended period during a legislative session vacates office and is not counted in determining a quorum of the applicable house of the legislature.
If enacted, this bill will amend Article III of the Texas Constitution, specifically adding Section 23-a, which directly addresses the process for determining a quorum in legislative houses. A legislator who vacates their office under this provision will not be counted towards the total membership, thus potentially impacting decisions made by the remaining members. This change could lead to a more responsive and engaged legislative body, as it creates a disincentive for members to miss sessions without formally addressing their absences.
HJR136 proposes a constitutional amendment that stipulates a legislator who is absent without an excuse for seven consecutive days during a legislative session shall vacate their office. This measure is introduced to ensure accountability among legislators, emphasizing the importance of attendance for maintaining a productive legislative process. By establishing a clear threshold for absenteeism, the amendment aims to deter unwarranted absences that disrupt the functioning of the legislature and its decision-making abilities.
Sentiment around HJR136 appears to be supportive, particularly among proponents of legislative accountability. Advocates argue that the measure is a necessary reform that aligns with principles of responsible governance and ensures that elected officials remain present to represent their constituents effectively. However, concerns may also arise regarding the enforcement of such strict attendance rules and the potential for unintended consequences, such as the removal of representatives during critical legislative periods due to unforeseen circumstances.
A notable point of contention could arise from the amendment's strict criteria for absence and how it might be interpreted or enforced. Constituents and legislators may debate the fairness of this provision, especially in exceptional cases where a legislator's absence is due to legitimate reasons, such as health issues or emergencies. The balance between maintaining operational integrity in the legislative house and ensuring that representatives are not unduly punished for circumstances beyond their control will likely be a focal point of discussion as the bill progresses.