Texas House Bill HCR14

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Claiming sovereignty under the Tenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution over all powers not otherwise enumerated and granted to the federal government by the U.S. Constitution, serving notice to the federal government to halt and reverse certain mandates, and providing that certain federal legislation be prohibited or repealed.

Impact

If adopted, HCR14 could reshape the relationship between Texas and federal authorities by reinforcing state rights and challenging the validity of federal mandates deemed unconstitutional. This resolution does not alter existing laws but serves as a strong statement advocating for limited federal intervention in state matters. It may lead to legal contests over the extent of federally mandated requirements imposed on states, thus impacting various areas of state governance including education, healthcare, and environmental regulations.

Summary

HCR14, a concurrent resolution from the Texas Legislature, asserts the state's sovereignty under the Tenth Amendment, claiming authority over all powers not specifically granted to the federal government. The resolution emphasizes that the federal government was intended to act as an agent of the states, maintaining that current federal actions often usurp state powers. It presents a legal basis for states to reclaim authority that proponents argue has been increasingly encroached upon by federal mandates.

Contention

Discussions around HCR14 have highlighted significant contention. Supporters argue that the current federal government’s actions often violate the principles set forth in the Constitution, particularly the Tenth Amendment, which limits federal power. However, critics express concern that such assertions of state sovereignty could lead to inconsistencies in governance, complicating the implementation of federal laws meant to ensure universal rights and protections. The resolution explicitly calls for the repeal of federal legislation seen as unnecessary or overreaching, intensifying the debate about state autonomy versus federal oversight.