Texas House Bill HR18

Texas 2013 - 83rd 2nd C.S.

Caption

Amending the permanent rules of the House of Representatives to require recognition of a witness to testify on a matter before a committee.

Impact

If enacted, HR18 would modify existing procedural rules governing public testimony in committee hearings. By requiring the recognition of witnesses who have expressed their desire to speak, the bill could lead to a more inclusive process for community engagement in legislative matters. This could improve transparency and accountability within the legislative process by allowing more voices to contribute to discussions relevant to their interests or concerns.

Summary

HR18 is a resolution that proposes an amendment to the permanent rules of the House of Representatives of the 83rd Texas Legislature. The bill aims to enhance the legislative process by mandating that the chair recognizes a witness who wishes to address the committee on a matter under review, provided that the witness is present at the hearing and has filed a sworn statement before the public testimony concludes. This change is intended to ensure that all interested parties can participate in the legislative discussions effectively.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR18 appears to lean towards positive engagement, with proponents advocating for greater witness participation in committee hearings. By formalizing the recognition of witnesses who seek to testify, the bill reflects a commitment to democratic principles and a belief in the importance of public input in legislative procedures. However, there could be concerns regarding the efficiency of committee hearings and the potential for overly lengthy discussions if many witnesses are recognized.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HR18 may arise around the impact of increased testimony on the legislative process. Critics might argue that while public participation is valuable, requiring recognition of all witnesses could complicate committee proceedings and lead to potential delays. Ensuring a balance between effective legislative efficiency and open public discourse is likely to be a significant concern as the bill is discussed and evaluated.