Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SJR57

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Sent toSOS
 
Proposed Const. Amend.
 

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment to require the legislature to convene following each regular session of the legislature to consider the repeal of laws enacted during that regular session or at a subsequent special session.

Impact

The impact of SJR57 on state laws could be significant. By instituting a regular review process for newly enacted laws, it may lead to greater scrutiny and potentially the elimination of legislation that is deemed problematic or unnecessary. Proponents argue that this will improve legislative quality and responsiveness to public needs, while opponents may view it as an additional burden on the legislative schedule. This new process could reshape how laws are enacted and enforced in Texas, promoting a more deliberative approach to governance.

Summary

SJR57 proposes a constitutional amendment that mandates the Texas Legislature to convene after each regular session to consider the repeal of laws enacted during that session. The aim of this resolution is to enhance accountability within the legislative process by providing a systematic opportunity to review and possibly repeal recent legislation. If passed, the amendment would require this convening to occur immediately following the final adjournment of a regular session, allowing for focused debates on the laws that were recently passed.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SJR57 appears to be mixed. Supporters, including some legislators advocating for increased government accountability, view this bill positively, believing it presents an opportunity for ongoing oversight of recent legislative actions. In contrast, detractors may express concerns regarding the practicality of convening additional sessions and the potential for political maneuvering, which could arise in the effort to repeal laws. Therefore, the sentiment reflects a divide between those advocating for reform and efficiency in government and others apprehensive about the implications this may have on legislative processes.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SJR57 include concerns about the feasibility and frequency of these additional sessions. Critics might argue that holding a session purely for the purpose of repealing laws could disrupt the legislative agenda and waste resources. Additionally, some legislators may worry that the process could be exploited for political gain, as repeal bills might become a tool for opposition parties to challenge the ruling members' initiatives. Thus, while the intention behind SJR57 is to promote legislative accountability, discussions surrounding its implementation reveal a complexity of potential challenges.

Companion Bills

TX HJR128

Identical Proposing a constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to convene following each regular session of the legislature to consider the repeal of or correction of recently enacted laws.

Previously Filed As

TX SJR71

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the governor to call the legislature into special session following certain disaster or emergency declarations and specifying the powers of the legislature in those special sessions.

TX SJR61

Proposing a constitutional amendment to allow the legislature to override a veto of the governor following a regular session of the legislature.

TX HJR46

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing legislative action at any time during a regular session of the legislature.

TX SJR65

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing legislative action at any time during a regular session of the legislature.

TX SJR59

Proposing a constitutional amendment regarding the time during which the legislature may act on bills or resolutions during a regular session.

TX HJR148

Proposing a constitutional amendment to allow the legislature to override a veto of the governor following a legislative session.

TX HJR113

Proposing a constitutional amendment regarding the time during which the legislature may act on bills or resolutions during a regular session.

TX HJR198

Proposing a constitutional amendment regarding the time during which the legislature may act on bills or resolutions during a regular session.

TX SJR63

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to consider legislation on any subject during a special session.

TX HJR32

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the governor to call the legislature into special session on petition of at least two-thirds of the members of each house of the legislature.

Similar Bills

CA ACA2

Legislature: retirement.

CA SB699

Legislature: constitutional course.

MI HR0041

A resolution to direct the Clerk of the House of Representatives to only present to the Governor enrolled House bills finally passed by both houses of the One Hundred Third Legislature.

CA AB599

Legislative Modernization Working Group.

CA AB1

Collective bargaining: Legislature.

CA AB478

Legislature: Member training.

CA AB1577

Collective bargaining: Legislature.

AK SCR1

Art. Ii, Sec. 16, Const: Veto Recon