Texas House Bill HJR7

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment to limit the time that a person may serve as a member of the Texas Legislature.

Impact

If passed, this measure would substantially alter the landscape of legislative elections in Texas. It would restrict the number of years individuals can serve, thus generating an influx of new candidates in both the House and Senate. The rationale behind this initiative is to foster increased accountability and responsiveness within the legislature, as proponents argue that prolonged tenure can lead to entrenchment and disconnect from constituents’ needs.

Voting

This joint resolution is set to be submitted for voter consideration at an upcoming election. A clear majority from the electorate will be required to amend the Texas Constitution and implement the proposed changes. Given the transformative effects of such legislation, the voting outcome is anticipated to be closely monitored and debated in the lead-up to the election.

Summary

HJR7 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment to establish term limits for members of the Texas Legislature. Under this proposal, individuals would be ineligible for election to the House of Representatives if they have served for six regular sessions, while Senate members would not be eligible if they have served six sessions, except for those who have served only five sessions and wish to complete a four-year term. This proposal aims to reform legislative service and promote greater turnover within the Texas legislature, encouraging fresh perspectives and new leadership in governmental positions.

Contention

Debate surrounding HJR7 has highlighted divisions over the balance of experience versus innovation in legislative roles. Supporters advocate for term limits as a mechanism to prevent bureaucracy and promote democratic engagement, while opponents may raise concerns about the loss of experienced legislators and the institutional knowledge that they possess. Some critics argue that with term limits, new lawmakers may face a steep learning curve, potentially hindering the effectiveness of legislative processes and governance.