Texas House Bill HB34

Texas 2021 - 87th 2nd C.S.

Caption

Relating to a vacancy in the office of a legislator due to an absence without official leave.

Impact

If passed, HB34 would impact the legislative procedures within the Texas government by establishing a clearer guideline for attendance and the continuity of legislative roles. This would provide a mechanism to maintain accountability among legislators regarding their attendance, ensuring that members are present to fulfill their duties. The proposed amendment directly addresses concerns about absenteeism affecting legislative functions and the outcomes of important votes.

Summary

House Bill 34 proposes a significant amendment to the Texas Government Code concerning the circumstances under which a legislator vacates their office. Specifically, the bill states that a member of the legislature will vacate their seat if they are absent from all proceedings for seven consecutive days without an official leave granted by the house of which they are a member. This legislation aims to formalize the process and implications of excessive absenteeism in the Texas legislature.

Contention

The bill could generate discussion and debate regarding the fairness and implications of enforcing such a policy. Critics may argue that unforeseen circumstances can arise, affecting a member's ability to be present, and thus, the requirement could be seen as overly strict. Additionally, the specifics surrounding what constitutes an 'official leave' may lead to differing interpretations and enforcement concerns, creating potential contention within the legislative body.