TX
Texas House Bill HJR31

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HJR31

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

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment to require the attorney general to be licensed and eligible to practice law in this state.

Impact

If enacted, this constitutional amendment would prevent individuals not licensed to practice law in Texas from serving as Attorney General. This change is expected to enhance the integrity and competency of the office, thereby reinforcing public trust in the legal representation of the state. Additionally, it could have implications for future candidates, as they would need to meet this new standard of eligibility, potentially impacting the pool of individuals who can run for this office.

Summary

HJR31 is a proposed constitutional amendment in Texas that mandates the Attorney General to be licensed and eligible to practice law in the state. The amendment seeks to amend Section 22 of Article IV of the Texas Constitution, which outlines the powers and responsibilities of the Attorney General. The requirement for licensure aims to ensure that the individual holding this significant legal position has the requisite qualifications and legal background to serve the state effectively.

Contention

There are some points of contention surrounding this amendment, particularly regarding the implications it has for current officeholders. The bill includes a temporary provision stating that any person in office who does not meet the new qualifications effective December 31, 2015, will be removed from their position. This provision could raise concerns about abrupt changes in leadership and the potential for political instability within the office, depending on how existing personnel align with the new requirements.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HJR110

Proposing a constitutional amendment specifying the authority of the attorney general to prosecute a criminal offense prescribed by the election laws of this state.

TX HJR98

Proposing a constitutional amendment specifying the authority of the attorney general to prosecute a criminal offense prescribed by the election laws of this state.

TX HJR124

Proposing a constitutional amendment to remove the requirement that a home equity loan be closed only at the office of the lender, an attorney at law, or a title company.

TX HJR177

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the secretary of state to be elected by the qualified voters at a general election instead of appointed by the governor.

TX HJR20

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for exceptions to the requirement that a home equity loan be closed only at the office of the lender, an attorney at law, or a title company.

TX HJR70

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring payment of child support to be eligible to hold certain public elective offices.

TX HJR54

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring payment of child support to be eligible to hold certain public elective offices.

TX HJR17

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the state to expand eligibility for Medicaid to certain persons under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX HJR117

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the state to expand eligibility for Medicaid to certain persons under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX HJR7

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the state to expand eligibility for Medicaid to certain persons under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.