Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring certain tax bills to be approved by two-thirds of all the members elected to each house of the legislature.
Impact
Should HJR63 be enacted, it would amend Article VIII of the Texas Constitution by adding a new section that specifically addresses the passage of tax-related legislation. The requirement for a two-thirds vote could significantly alter the dynamics of legislative negotiations, as it would necessitate bipartisan support for tax increases or the imposition of new taxes. This provision is seen as a method to prevent the quick enactment of tax hikes, aligning with conservative fiscal policies that prioritize taxpayer protections.
Summary
HJR63 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment that requires any bill imposing a new state tax or increasing the rate of an existing state tax to receive the approval of two-thirds of all members elected to each house of the legislature. This proposed amendment aims to increase legislative scrutiny and control over tax legislation, thereby potentially limiting the capacity for rapid tax changes by requiring a larger consensus among lawmakers.
Contention
The notable points of contention surrounding HJR63 include debates over its potential implications for state revenue and budget flexibility. Proponents argue that such measures can safeguard against careless tax increases and promote fiscal responsibility among lawmakers. Conversely, critics may assert that this requirement could hinder necessary funding for public services during economic downturns or emergencies, as it may complicate and delay the legislative process for addressing urgent fiscal needs.
Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the governor to call the legislature into special session on petition of at least two-thirds of the members of each house of the legislature.
Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the lieutenant governor and speaker of the house of representatives to call the legislature into special session on petition of at least two-thirds of the members of each house of the legislature in response to a fiscal crisis, war, natural disaster, or emergency.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to set the salaries of members of the legislature and the lieutenant governor based on the average public school teacher salary in this state.
Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring elections on proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution to be held in November of even-numbered years.
Proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to provide for exceptions to the requirement that a home equity loan be closed only at the office of the lender, an attorney at law, or a title company.
Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing an independent redistricting commission to establish districts for the election of the members of the United States House of Representatives elected from this state, the Texas Senate, and the Texas House of Representatives.
Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing an independent redistricting commission to establish districts for the election of the members of the United States House of Representatives elected from this state, the Texas Senate, and the Texas House of Representatives.
Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the secretary of state to be elected by the qualified voters at a general election instead of appointed by the governor.