Relating to adopting a Joint Rule of the Senate and House of Representatives assigning to each bill passed by the legislature a legislative act number.
Impact
The adoption of HCR135 will affect future legislative sessions, as it establishes a uniform process for bill enrollment. By implementing this change, the Texas Legislature aims to simplify referencing and indexing bills in the legislative system. This could enhance clarity and reduce confusion when bills are discussed, referenced, or debated, thereby potentially improving legislative efficiency in Texas. Additionally, the electronic legislative information system will maintain these act numbers, allowing for easier public access and transparency regarding legislative actions.
Summary
HCR135, a House Concurrent Resolution passed by the Texas Legislature, focuses on the process of enrolling bills that have been successfully passed by both houses. The resolution introduces a new Joint Rule aimed at streamlining the way bills are identified once they have received final passage. Specifically, HCR135 requires that every bill enrolled will be assigned a Texas Legislative Act number, replacing the originating house's bill number on the face of the enrolled bill. This new numbering system is intended to create more consistency and ease of reference in legislative practices.
Sentiment
Overall sentiment surrounding HCR135 appeared to be positive. It was recognized by a significant majority in the legislature, passing with a vote of 129 in favor to just 1 against. Legislators expressed that these changes would modernize and improve the legislative process, ultimately benefiting the administration of Texas law. The broad support indicates that there is a collective agreement on the necessity for such reforms in the legislative framework.
Contention
While there were no major points of contention regarding HCR135, it is worth noting that any systemic change in legislative processes can lead to discussions about efficiency versus traditional methods. The resolution primarily garnered support without opposition, indicating a lack of significant dissent. However, the resolution's implementation will need to be monitored to ensure that the new system fulfills its intended purpose without introducing unforeseen complications in bill enrollment and tracking.
Relating to reports by the Legislative Budget Board regarding the General Appropriations Act and other fiscal actions taken by the legislature and each general appropriations bill proposed by the legislature.
Relating to reports by the Legislative Budget Board regarding the General Appropriations Act and other fiscal actions taken by the legislature and each general appropriations bill proposed by the legislature.
Relating to an annual state budget and legislative budget sessions in even-numbered years and to political contributions made during a legislative session.