Texas House Bill HJR154

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 3/11/11
• Refer: 3/23/11

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment increasing the number of state senators from 31 to 41.

Impact

If enacted, this amendment would significantly alter the structure of the Texas Senate. It would necessitate the creation of additional senate districts, requiring a special legislative session to apportion the state accordingly. The impact of this amendment could extend to various aspects of state governance, including increased representation for communities that may have felt underserved by the existing number of senators. Moreover, the implementation of this amendment could lead to legislative changes across a wide spectrum of policy areas as new senators bring diverse perspectives to the Senate floor.

Summary

HJR154 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment to increase the number of state senators in Texas from the current 31 to 41. The resolution aims to change the composition of the Texas Senate to allow for greater representation of the state's population and potentially improve legislative responsiveness to the needs of various communities. The proposed change reflects the ongoing discussions about whether the current number of legislators adequately represents the state's demographics and ensures balanced governance.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HJR154 appears mixed. Proponents advocate for the benefits of increased representation, arguing that it would make the legislative process more inclusive and responsive to constituents. In contrast, critics raise concerns about the implications of adding more senators, including increased governmental costs and potential dilution of influence for existing senators. This division highlights the ongoing debate over how best to balance effective governance with the need for representation.

Contention

Notable points of contention revolve around the logistics and potential consequences of such a significant structural change in the Senate. There are concerns about the financial implications of funding additional senate positions and the challenges associated with redistricting. Opponents also worry whether the increase in senators would genuinely lead to improved governance or result in unnecessary complexity within the legislative process. The resolution will likely spur further discussion on how best to shape the legislature to serve Texas's diverse population effectively.