Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SJR55

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

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for retention elections for police chiefs of certain municipalities.

Impact

The introduction of retention elections for police chiefs could significantly alter the landscape of local governance in Texas. This change would shift the nature of police leadership from an appointee system to one that integrates voter input, potentially leading to increased accountability among police chiefs. However, this amendment may also introduce challenges related to election cycles, campaign financing, and the politicization of police leadership, which could affect how law enforcement operates within municipalities.

Summary

SJR55 proposes a constitutional amendment in Texas that mandates retention elections for police chiefs in municipalities with populations exceeding 5,000. This amendment aims to enhance accountability by allowing constituents to vote on whether police chiefs should continue in their positions. The legislation seeks to provide a democratic check on appointed officials responsible for law enforcement within their communities, allowing voters to have a direct say on ongoing leadership in the police department.

Contention

There are notable concerns regarding SJR55's implementation. Critics may argue that frequent elections could undermine the stability and continuity of police leadership, possibly leading to inconsistent law enforcement policies depending on the political climate. Additionally, involving voters in retention decisions might lead to pressures on police chiefs that distract from professional law enforcement practices. On the other hand, proponents assert that this approach promotes democratic governance and provides critical oversight necessary to ensure police accountability.

Companion Bills

TX SB1681

Enabled by Relating to police chiefs of certain municipalities.

Previously Filed As

TX SJR74

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the creation of the centennial parks conservation fund.

TX SJR60

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for the suspension of certain public officers by the governor and the trial, removal, and reinstatement of certain public officers by the senate.

TX HJR40

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing honesty in state taxation.

TX HJR9

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing honesty in state taxation.

TX HJR6

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing honesty in state taxation.

TX HJR86

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing certain persons under the age of 18 to vote in a primary election.

TX SJR7

Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing certain persons under the age of 18 to vote in a primary election.

TX HJR33

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing for an annual state budget and annual legislative sessions for budget purposes.

TX HJR31

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring elections on proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution to be held in November of even-numbered years.

TX SJR14

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the periodic review of state and local tax preferences and providing an expiration date for certain tax preferences.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.