Texas House Bill HJR81

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment changing the terms of office of a district judge.

Impact

The implementation of HJR81 would lead to significant changes in how district judges are elected and how long they serve in their positions. Its primary impact would be the modification of the Texas Constitution, specifically Sections 7 and 28 of Article V, which govern judicial terms and vacancies. By extending judges' terms, the bill aims to improve continuity in the judicial process and potentially reduce the political pressures associated with frequent elections. This change is anticipated to provide judges with more autonomy in decision-making and lead to a more experienced judiciary over time.

Summary

HJR81 proposes a constitutional amendment to extend the term of office for district judges in Texas from four years to six years. This amendment is designed to enhance judicial stability and allow judges additional time to implement their judicial philosophies and decisions without the constant pressure of re-election after a shorter term. Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for filling vacancies in the office of a district judge, specifying that such vacancies will be filled by the Governor until the next general election, at which time voters shall elect a judge to serve a full term.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, the bill has sparked discussion regarding possible downsides, particularly in terms of accountability. Critics may argue that extending the term of district judges could result in less voter accountability, as judges would have to face elections less frequently. This can lead to concerns about misconduct or performance issues going unchecked for longer periods. Additionally, debates may arise concerning the balance between judicial independence and democratic oversight, making the passage of this amendment a topic of considerable interest in legislative discussions.