Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HJR133

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

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment to establish certain principles and procedures for the drawing of districts for the Texas Senate, the Texas House of Representatives, and the United States House of Representatives.

Impact

If passed, HJR133 would amend the Texas Constitution by introducing specific requirements that must be adhered to during the redistricting process. This includes ensuring districts are composed entirely of undivided census tracts, maintaining geographic compactness, and avoiding any partisan considerations when drawing district lines. This amendment seeks to prevent gerrymandering, thus providing a more equitable electoral framework that reflects true demographic distributions and community interests.

Summary

HJR133 proposes a constitutional amendment aimed at establishing clear principles and procedures for the drawing of election districts for the Texas Senate, the Texas House of Representatives, and the United States House of Representatives. The bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of geographic regions, minimizing the division of counties and municipalities, and preserving communities of interest as defined by various commonalities such as social and economic factors. These principles are intended to enhance fairness and representation in political processes within the state of Texas.

Contention

Debates surrounding HJR133 may arise over the execution of the proposed guidelines, particularly concerning the interpretation of what constitutes 'communities of interest' and 'geographic compactness.' Opponents of the bill may argue that such terms are subjective, which could lead to disputes and legal challenges. Additionally, the limitation on the legislature's ability to redraw districts more than once following census releases could conflict with practical political needs, raising concerns about responsiveness to population changes in the state.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HJR15

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing an independent redistricting commission to establish districts for the election of the members of the United States House of Representatives elected from this state, the Texas Senate, and the Texas House of Representatives.

TX SJR12

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing an independent redistricting commission to establish districts for the election of the members of the United States House of Representatives elected from this state, the Texas Senate, and the Texas House of Representatives.

TX SJR8

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the United States House of Representatives and the Texas Legislature.

TX SJR16

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the Texas Legislature and Texas congressional districts and revising procedures for redistricting.

TX HJR48

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.

TX HJR83

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the Texas Legislature and Texas congressional districts and revising procedures for redistricting.

TX HJR4

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Independent Citizen Redistricting Commission to redistrict the Texas Legislature, Texas congressional districts, and State Board of Education districts and revising procedures for redistricting.

TX SJR62

Proposing a constitutional amendment relating to the determination of a quorum of the senate or house of representatives.

TX HJR8

Proposing a constitutional amendment relating to the determination of a quorum of the senate or house of representatives.

TX HB1000

Relating to the composition of districts for the election of members of the Texas House of Representatives.

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