TX
Texas House Bill HJR121

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HJR121

Caption

Applying to the Congress of the United States to call a convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for the limited purpose of proposing an amendment to the United States Constitution to ensure balance, integrity, and transparency in our national campaign finance system.

Impact

If passed, HJR121 would initiate a process that seeks to address perceived imbalances in campaign finance, thereby reinforcing the fundamental democratic ideals emphasized by the framers of the Constitution. A convention could reform campaign finance by restricting the influence of large donations and ensuring that elections remain fair and open. This amendment would aim not only to restore public trust in government but also to enhance the accountability of elected officials to the electorate.

Summary

HJR121 is a joint resolution that calls upon the United States Congress to convene a convention under Article V of the U.S. Constitution. The primary goal of this convention is to propose an amendment aimed at ensuring balance, integrity, and transparency in the national campaign finance system. This resolution reflects concerns among Texas legislators about the growing influence of special interests and out-of-state donors on political processes, which they believe undermines the democratic principle of government being answerable to the people.

Contention

There may be significant debate regarding the effectiveness and implications of such a convention. Critics could argue that a convention poses risks of unintended consequences, potentially opening the door to amendments that could infringe on other constitutional rights. Additionally, concerns about delegate selection and representation may arise, particularly regarding the stipulation in HJR121 that delegates must be elected officials or selected by election. This condition raises questions about who would represent the interests of diverse populations and viewpoints within Texas and the broader national community.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HJR35

Rescinding the automatic rescission of certain applications made by the Texas Legislature to the United States Congress to call a national convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for proposing any amendment to that constitution.

TX SJR36

Rescinding the automatic rescission of certain applications made by the Texas Legislature to the United States Congress to call a national convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for proposing any amendment to that constitution.

TX SJR52

Extending the deadline for the automatic rescission of certain applications made by the Texas Legislature to the United States Congress to call a national convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for proposing any amendment to that constitution.

TX HCR20

Urging the U.S. Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification a federal balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

TX HCR5

Urging the U.S. Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification a federal balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

TX HCR7

Urging the U.S. Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification a federal balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

TX SJR35

Proposing a constitutional amendment clarifying that a voter must be a United States citizen.

TX HJR7

Proposing a constitutional amendment clarifying that a voter must be a United States citizen.

TX HJR200

Ratifying a proposed amendment to the Constitution of the United States relating to the number of representatives in the United States House of Representatives.

TX HJR15

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.

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Voting thresholds.