Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HJR142

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Sent toSOS
 
Proposed Const. Amend.
 

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment.

Impact

Should HJR142 be approved, it will likely lead to significant changes in the state's environmental policies by legally enshrining the right to a clean environment within the Texas Constitution. This could empower citizens to hold the government accountable for environmental degradation and promote more aggressive legislative measures against practices that may harm public health. The requirement for the legislature to address climate change could foster more robust regulatory frameworks focusing on sustainability and emissions reduction, thus potentially reshaping Texas's environmental landscape in the years to come.

Summary

HJR142 proposes a constitutional amendment that guarantees the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment for the citizens of Texas. This resolution focuses on ensuring access to clean air, clean water, and an overall environment that contributes positively to individual well-being. The proposed amendment reflects a growing recognition of environmental issues and seeks to protect the rights of Texans regarding this crucial aspect of public health and quality of life. Furthermore, the resolution mandates the Texas Legislature to enact laws aimed at combating climate change by systematically reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HJR142 appears to be largely positive among environmental advocacy groups and constituents concerned about climate action. Supporters view the amendment as a vital step towards environmental justice and sustainability, aligning state policy with public health needs and climate responsibilities. However, there may also be pushback from certain corporate sectors and political factions that perceive the amendment as an overreach that could impose additional regulations and costs on businesses, indicating a potential conflict between regulatory goals and economic interests.

Contention

Notably, there may be contention surrounding the implementation of the proposed amendment. Critics could argue that while the intention of guaranteeing an environmental right is laudable, it may also lead to an expansion of governmental authority and regulatory encroachments into private enterprise. The balance between fostering economic growth and ensuring environmental protections will likely be a key point of debate, as stakeholders assess the implications of such a constitutional amendment on business operations, property rights, and state governance.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HJR119

Proposing a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to a clean and healthy environment.

TX HJR27

Proposing a constitutional amendment guaranteeing the right to a clean and healthy environment.

TX SJ00036

Resolution Proposing A State Constitutional Amendment Concerning Environmental Rights.

TX HR74

Encouraging The State Of Hawaii To Adopt A Proposed Constitutional Amendment, And The Electorate To Ratify The Proposed Amendment, Guaranteeing All Individuals The Right To A Clean And Healthy Environment And A Stable Climate.

TX HCR88

Encouraging The State Of Hawaii To Adopt A Proposed Constitutional Amendment, And The Electorate To Ratify The Proposed Amendment, Guaranteeing All Individuals The Right To A Clean And Healthy Environment And A Stable Climate.

TX HCR48

Encouraging Future Legislatures To Pass A Proposed Constitutional Amendment, And The Electorate To Ratify The Proposed Amendment, Guaranteeing All Individuals The Right To A Clean And Healthy Environment And A Stable Climate.

TX HR44

Encouraging Future Legislatures To Pass A Proposed Constitutional Amendment, And The Electorate To Ratify The Proposed Amendment, Guaranteeing All Individuals The Right To A Clean And Healthy Environment And A Stable Climate.

TX HJ00013

Resolution Proposing An Amendment To The State Constitution To Provide For An Environmental Rights Amendment.

TX HJ00037

Resolution Proposing An Amendment To The State Constitution To Provide For An Environmental Rights Amendment.

TX HB1528

Proposing An Amendment To Article I Of The Constitution Of The State Of Hawaii To Guarantee All Individuals The Right To A Clean And Healthy Environment.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.