Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SCR6

Caption

Urging Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification the Parental Rights Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Impact

If ratified, the Parental Rights Amendment would solidify the rights of parents against governmental overreach regarding the upbringing of children. It would reinforce the existing Texas laws that already recognize parental authority, thus ensuring that any attempt by the state or federal government to infringe upon these rights would face stringent scrutiny. This change could provide a constitutional safeguard that aligns with the values of many in the state who prioritize parental control over children's education and health decisions.

Summary

SCR6 is a concurrent resolution urging Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification the Parental Rights Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. This amendment emphasizes the fundamental rights of parents to direct the upbringing and education of their children. The resolution references Supreme Court cases, namely Wisconsin v. Yoder and Troxel v. Granville, highlighting the ambiguity arising from recent rulings regarding parental rights, which is essential to American tradition. The bill expresses concern over potential influences, such as international law, that could negatively impact these rights.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SCR6 include the balance between state authority and individual rights. Proponents argue that explicit constitutional protections for parental rights are necessary to defend against evolving interpretations by the courts and potential encroachments by international treaties. Critics, however, may assert that such measures could undermine protections provided to children that are designed to address issues such as abuse and neglect, suggesting that the focus should remain on ensuring children's best interests rather than solely on parental authority.

Companion Bills

TX HCR36

Identical Urging Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification the Parental Rights Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.