Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1773

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 

Caption

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

Impact

The formation of this committee could lead to significant adjustments in how ethics laws are structured and enforced in Texas. By requiring an evaluation of the effectiveness and intentions of existing laws, SB1773 positions itself as a potential catalyst for reforms aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability within state governance. The committee is entrusted to identify areas where current laws fall short and suggest necessary statutory and regulatory modifications.

Summary

SB1773 aims to establish a select interim committee tasked with reviewing and making recommendations for substantial changes to Texas's ethics laws. The legislation highlights the need to assess current statutes and regulations related to ethics, particularly in areas such as campaign finance, lobbying, and personal financial disclosures. The interim committee will consist of members appointed by both the lieutenant governor and the speaker of the house, ensuring a blend of legislative and public perspectives in its discussions and recommendations.

Contention

Given the nature of ethics legislation, SB1773 may lead to various discussions regarding the balance between regulation and public interest, particularly in light of recent controversies surrounding campaign finance and lobbying practices. Supporters of the measure may argue that a thorough review of ethics laws is overdue and necessary for maintaining public trust in government entities. Conversely, critics may express concerns regarding the potential for political motivations influencing the committee's recommendations or whether legislative action adequately addresses the instance of corruption or malfeasance in state governance.

Companion Bills

TX HB3621

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

Similar Bills

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.

MI HB4326

Campaign finance: contributions and expenditures; provision related to officeholders raising funds when facing a recall; modify, and 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.

CA SB602

Advisory bodies.

CA SB1048

Advisory bodies.

CA AB3239

Advisory bodies.

KS HR6003

Providing temporary rules of the House of Representatives for the 2023 session until permanent rules are adopted.

MN HC1

A house concurrent resolution relating to the regent nomination joint committee.

AZ HB2443

Campaign finance; contributions limits