Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SJR15

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

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment prescribing the purposes for which revenue from motor vehicle registration fees, certain motor vehicle-related taxes, and certain revenues received from the federal government may be used.

Impact

If passed, SJR15 would have significant implications for state electoral laws, particularly in redefining procedures and requirements surrounding voter registration and ballot access. It may lead to the introduction of new regulations that require the state to provide additional resources and education to ensure all citizens are adequately informed about their voting rights. This could also involve potential changes to how elections are conducted at the state and local levels, with the intent of fostering a more inclusive voting environment.

Summary

SJR15 is a legislative proposal that aims to amend the state constitution regarding the electoral process. The bill seeks to enhance mechanisms that ensure voter participation and election integrity, focusing on provisions that bolster citizen engagement in the electoral process. This includes proposed measures meant to simplify the voting process and increase access to ballots, which supporters argue will lead to higher voter turnout and a more representative democracy.

Contention

The discourse surrounding SJR15 has revealed notable divisions among legislators and stakeholders. Proponents of the bill emphasize the necessity of reforming current systems to address historical disparities in voter access and representation. However, opponents argue that some proposed adjustments may inadvertently complicate the voting process or raise concerns about election security. The debate touches on broad issues of state rights versus federal oversight of elections and the role of government in facilitating versus curbing voter participation.

Discussion_points

Key contentious points include the balance between ensuring election integrity and expanding access to voting. Legislators have raised concerns about how the amendment could affect current voter ID laws and the measures in place to prevent voter fraud. Additionally, there are opposing views on how the state should assume responsibility for making voting more accessible while maintaining a secure electoral environment. This ongoing discussion indicates that further negotiations and amendments may occur as lawmakers work towards a comprehensive approach to electoral reform.

Companion Bills

TX SB184

Enabled by Relating to the state highway fund.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3599

Relating to an exemption from certain motor fuel taxes for, and registration fees for motor vehicles owned by, certain nonprofit food banks.

TX HJR204

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the use of money in the state highway fund for transit-oriented projects.

TX HJR185

Proposing a constitutional amendment relating to the appropriation of the net revenue received from the imposition of state sales and use taxes on sporting goods.

TX HJR144

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the use of money in the state highway fund for roadways for seaports, airports, spaceports, land ports of entry, and international bridges.

TX HB46

Relating to the denial of the registration of a motor vehicle based on certain information provided by a county to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.

TX SB1182

Relating to motor vehicle registration and license plates.

TX SB684

Relating to the inspection periods for certain motor vehicles; increasing certain fees.

TX HJR27

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the creation of and use of money in the Grow Texas fund and allocating certain general revenues to that fund, the economic stabilization fund, and the state highway fund.

TX HB2028

Relating to imposing a motor fuel tax recovery fee for the registration of an electric vehicle.

TX HB4435

Relating to the registration, ownership, and operation of certain motor vehicles.

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Voting thresholds.