Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HJR95

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 constitution to limit the number of terms that a person may be elected to Congress.

Impact

If passed, HJR95 would not only mandate the Texas Secretary of State to forward this application to Congress but also encourage other states to join in this pursuit for a constitutional amendment. The proposed limitation on congressional terms aims to shift the dynamic of political engagement, promoting more opportunities for regular citizens and reducing the influence of entrenched politicians. Proponents argue that such changes can rejuvenate the political landscape by fostering fresh ideas and perspectives.

Summary

HJR95 is a joint resolution proposed by the Texas Legislature, calling for a convention under Article V of the United States Constitution to propose amendments limiting the number of terms for members of Congress. Specifically, the resolution seeks to impose a limit of six terms for House representatives and two terms for senators. The intent of this resolution is to promote government accountability and address concerns regarding career politicians and growing political establishments in Washington, D.C. This initiative aligns with a broader movement seen in various states advocating for similar term limit measures.

Contention

However, the resolution has generated significant debate. Opponents argue that imposing term limits could inadvertently diminish the legislative experience and expertise necessary for effective governance. Critics express concern that while the intention is to curb political entrenchment, it could lead to instability and inconsistency in policymaking as new representatives may require time to acclimatize to their roles. The discussions surrounding HJR95 reveal a clear division among lawmakers regarding the efficacy of term limits as a tool for enhancing democratic representation.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

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