Proposing a constitutional amendment to rename the Railroad Commission of Texas as the Texas Energy Commission.
Impact
If approved, this amendment would require changes to the Texas Constitution. The proposed legislation outlines the structure of the commission, which would remain composed of three elected commissioners serving six-year terms, with one commissioner elected every two years. Additionally, provisions for filling vacancies by gubernatorial appointment until the next general election would remain intact. This change is primarily a semantic one but is also seen as a step towards modernizing state agencies to reflect their current roles accurately.
Summary
HJR97 proposes a constitutional amendment to rename the 'Railroad Commission of Texas' to the 'Texas Energy Commission.' The change is intended to better reflect the current responsibilities and the scope of the commission, which has evolved beyond its original focus on railroad regulation to encompass broader energy issues in the state. By aligning the name with its modern function, supporters argue that the commission would be positioned to address contemporary challenges within the energy sector more effectively.
Sentiment
Overall sentiment surrounding HJR97 appears to be supportive among stakeholders who see the need for clarity in the naming of state entities. There may be some resistance based on tradition or concerns about unnecessary changes to established institutions. However, the general consensus favors the amendment as a positive move toward enhancing the commission's image and relevance in policy discussions about energy in Texas.
Contention
The main contention lies in whether a name change is necessary or beneficial at all. Some critics might argue that the focus should be on the actual functions and effectiveness of the commission rather than its name. Others could express concerns about the implications of changing the commission's identity, fearing it might distract from more pressing regulatory issues within the energy sector. The debate would likely spotlight different perspectives on how best to represent regulatory bodies in the state.
Relating to the acceptance of political contributions by a member of the Railroad Commission of Texas and of political contributions made in connection with the office of railroad commissioner.
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 establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the United States House of Representatives and the Texas Legislature.
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 establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the Texas Legislature, Texas congressional districts, and State Board of Education districts and revising procedures for redistricting.