Texas Senate Bill SCR18

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Granting the legislature permission to adjourn for more than three days during the period beginning on Wednesday, February 25, 2015, and ending on Monday, March 2, 2015.

Impact

SCR18 alters the standard procedural constraints placed upon the Texas Legislature as specified in Section 17, Article III of the Texas Constitution. By allowing adjournment for more than three days, the resolution provides the legislature with more maneuverability regarding its schedule which can enhance legislative efficiency during critical periods. It signifies an acknowledgment of the need for the legislature to adapt its operational capabilities in response to the demands of governance and legislative processes.

Summary

Senate Concurrent Resolution 18 (SCR18) addresses the procedural workings of the Texas Legislature by granting permission for each house to adjourn beyond the typical three-day period without requiring consent from the other house. This resolution is particularly relevant to the time frame specified, which begins on February 25, 2015, and ends on March 2, 2015. The resolution indicates the legislature's desire to maintain flexibility in its operations, potentially for the purpose of special sessions or unforeseen circumstances that necessitate additional time away from formal sessions.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SCR18 was overwhelmingly positive, as evidenced by unanimous votes in both the Senate and the House. The resolution received strong bipartisan support, suggesting a shared understanding of the importance of operational flexibility for legislative bodies. The lack of opposition during votes indicates that legislators agree on the necessity of adapting procedural rules to better fit the demands of their responsibilities.

Contention

While SCR18 appears to have broad support and was adopted without dissent, procedural resolutions can sometimes raise questions about transparency and accountability, particularly concerning the ease with which lawmakers can adjourn without needing mutual consent. However, no notable points of contention surrounding this specific resolution have been recorded, indicating a smooth legislative process in its consideration and approval. The straightforward nature of SCR18 highlights a consensus on procedural efficiency over disputes about policy matters.