Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing a home-rule municipality to provide in its charter the procedure to fill a vacancy on its governing body for which the unexpired term is 12 months or less.
Impact
If enacted, HJR87 would allow municipalities greater flexibility and autonomy in managing their governance structures. By permitting home-rule municipalities to set their own procedures for filling these vacancies, it empowers local governments to address their specific needs and circumstances. This legislative change can potentially lead to a more responsive and accountable local government, reflecting the will of the voters more directly.
Summary
HJR87 is a proposed constitutional amendment that grants home-rule municipalities in Texas the authority to determine their own procedures for filling vacancies on their governing bodies when the unexpired term is 12 months or less. The amendment seeks to amend Section 11 of Article XI of the Texas Constitution. It specifically allows municipalities to adopt provisions in their charters to fill such vacancies through a method other than appointment, enabling local voters to play a role in these decisions through special elections called for this purpose.
Contention
While HJR87 presents an opportunity for municipalities to enhance their local governance, it may also evoke concerns about the effectiveness and efficiency of filling vacancies through special elections. Critics might argue that reliance on special elections can lead to delays and increased costs associated with organizing these elections. The extent to which municipalities can exercise this authority may also spark debates about the balance of power between state and local governments.
Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for exceptions to the requirement that a home equity loan be closed only at the office of the lender, an attorney at law, or a title company.
Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the Texas Legislature and Texas congressional districts and revising procedures for redistricting.
Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the governing body of a political subdivision to adopt an exemption from ad valorem taxation of a portion, expressed as a dollar amount, of the market value of an individual's residence homestead.