Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the lieutenant governor and speaker of the house of representatives to call the legislature into special session on petition of at least two-thirds of the members of each house of the legislature in response to a fiscal crisis, war, natural disaster, or emergency.
If SJR13 is approved and enacted, it will amend Article III of the Texas Constitution, specifically adding Section 5A. This amendment not only allows for the convening of special sessions under the specified conditions but also limits the topics that can be addressed during these sessions. Any special session called in this manner will focus solely on issues directly related to the stated emergencies, which may streamline legislative action during crises. Furthermore, the amendment sets a cap on the duration of these special sessions to thirty days, thus establishing a clear timeframe for legislative discussions.
SJR13 is a joint resolution proposed in the Texas Legislature that aims to amend the Texas Constitution. This bill stipulates that the lieutenant governor and the speaker of the house must convene a special session of the legislature upon receiving a petition signed by at least two-thirds of the members of both houses. The purpose of such a special session would be to address critical issues such as a fiscal crisis, war, natural disaster, or other emergencies. The language of the resolution emphasizes the need for a structured response mechanism by the legislature in times of urgent need, ensuring that legislative action can occur swiftly when significant issues arise.
The response to SJR13 among legislators appears to be generally positive, with proponents arguing that it equips the state with a vital tool for responsive governance in times of need. Supporters believe that providing structured procedures for convening the legislature during crises could lead to more effective and timely responses. However, there are concerns as well; some lawmakers express apprehension regarding the potential for disagreement among legislative members on what constitutes a valid emergency, which may complicate the process of getting the required signatures.
Notable points of contention around SJR13 include discussions about the potential for abuse of the special session provision. Critics worry that the requirement for a two-thirds majority for a petition might lead to partisan maneuvering, preventing quick legislative action if consensus cannot be reached. Additionally, the defined scope of issues that can be addressed during a special session raises questions about the flexibility of legislative responses to unforeseen circumstances. The resolution's implications for emergency preparedness and legislative efficiency have sparked debate among various political factions within the state.