Proposing a constitutional amendment to limit the time that a person may serve as a member of the Texas Legislature.
Impact
If enacted, SJR10 could significantly alter the composition of the Texas Legislature by introducing term limits. Proponents argue that these limits would encourage new candidates to enter the political arena, promoting fresh perspectives and ideas while reducing the influence of long-serving incumbents. This change could ultimately lead to a more dynamic political environment. Additionally, the amendment would not take into account any legislative service prior to 2019 when determining eligibility, allowing some current legislators to continue serving as before.
Summary
SJR10 proposes a constitutional amendment intended to limit the time a person can serve in the Texas Legislature. Specifically, the amendment would disqualify individuals from being elected to the House of Representatives after they have served during all or part of six regular sessions. In addition, it states that individuals could not be elected to the Senate after serving during all or part of six regular sessions, though those who have served for only five sessions would still be eligible for a four-year term in the Senate. This ensures that some legislators have the opportunity to serve longer while still capping the total time in office.
Contention
Notable contention surrounds the proposed amendment as opinions diverge on the merits of term limits. Supporters believe that limiting time in office reduces the potential for entrenched interests and makes way for renewed representation of the public. Conversely, critics fear that such limits could lead to a loss of experienced lawmakers who have the knowledge and understanding of legislative processes that benefit the state. There is also concern that frequent turnovers in office could eliminate the continuity of governance that is essential for effective lawmaking.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to limit the time that a person may serve as a member of the Texas Legislature or as a statewide elected officer in the executive branch.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to limit the time that a person may serve as a member of the Texas Legislature or as a statewide elected officer in the executive branch to 12 consecutive years.
Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the Texas Legislature and Texas congressional districts and revising procedures for redistricting.
Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the Texas Legislature and Texas congressional districts and revising procedures for redistricting.
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 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 establishing the Texas Redistricting Commission to redistrict the United States House of Representatives and the Texas Legislature.