Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas House Bill HB3621

Filed

Out of House Committee

Voted on by House

Out of Senate Committee

Voted on by Senate

Governor Action

Bill Becomes Law

Caption

Relating to a select committee to review and make recommendations for substantive changes to laws overseen by the Texas Ethics Commission.

Impact

The bill establishes a framework for continuous oversight and potential reform of ethics regulations within Texas. The creation of this committee indicates legislative intent to address any potential shortcomings within the current ethics laws, promoting a culture of transparency and accountability in government operations. The implications may include revisions to the regulations surrounding campaign financing and disclosures required from lobbyists, fostering an environment where ethical conduct is prioritized.

Summary

House Bill 3621 seeks to establish a select committee tasked with reviewing Texas ethics laws, specifically targeting campaign finance regulations, lobbying laws, and personal financial disclosure requirements. This bill reflects a proactive approach to reassess existing mechanisms to ensure they are effective in serving their intended purposes. If passed, the committee is expected to compile a report detailing its findings and proposed changes by December 2014, potentially leading to significant amendments in state laws related to ethics and governance.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 3621 appears to be cautiously optimistic, with various stakeholders recognizing the need for updated ethical guidelines in the wake of evolving political landscapes. Supporters argue that such a review is essential to curb potential abuses of power and to uphold public trust in elected officials. Conversely, there are concerns among critics about the potential for the committee's findings to be influenced by partisan agendas, which may undermine the integrity of proposed changes.

Contention

Notable points of contention within the discussions regarding HB 3621 revolve around the scope and composition of the select committee. Critics question whether the appointed members will adequately represent a diverse set of perspectives or whether they will primarily reflect the interests of political leadership. The ability of the committee to provide impartial recommendations based on comprehensive evaluations of existing laws is also under scrutiny, presenting a challenge to achieving meaningful reforms.

Companion Bills

TX SB1773

Very Similar Relating to the creation of a select interim committee to review and make recommendations for substantive changes to ethics laws.

Previously Filed As

TX HB927

Relating to the creation of a commission to review certain laws of this state that restrict the rights or activities of persons convicted of a felony offense and to make certain recommendations regarding those laws.

TX SB1985

Relating to the reestablishment of the committee to study the formation of a Texas Bicentennial Commission.

TX HB5093

Relating to the reestablishment of the committee to study the formation of a Texas Bicentennial Commission.

TX HB5208

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Commission on Immigration and Migration and a migrant worker visa pilot project.

TX HB3447

Relating to the establishment and administration of the Texas Space Commission and the Texas Aerospace Research and Space Economy Consortium.

TX SB1577

Relating to the Texas Real Estate Research Center, the Real Estate Research Advisory Committee, the Texas Real Estate Commission, and the Texas Appraiser Licensing and Certification Board; increasing a fee; authorizing a fee.

TX HB1540

Relating to the San Jacinto River Authority, following recommendations of the Sunset Advisory Commission; specifying grounds for the removal of a member of the board of directors.

TX SB2586

Relating to the San Jacinto River Authority, following recommendations of the Sunset Advisory Commission; specifying grounds for the removal of a member of the board of directors.

TX HB4410

Relating to the creation of a Texas Commission on High School Outcomes.

TX HB377

Relating to establishing a joint select committee to study the feasibility and sustainability of providing a cost-of-living adjustment applicable to certain benefits paid by the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.

Similar Bills

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MI HB4870

Campaign finance: contributions and expenditures; funds donated to a candidate for recall efforts; require candidate to establish a separate account used for recall purposes. Amends secs. 3, 11, 12, 21, 24 & 52 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.203 et seq.) & adds sec. 21b.

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MN HC6

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