Texas House Bill HJR35

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

• Filed: 8/7/25

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing that members of the legislature are not entitled to receive a state salary, per diem, or reimbursement for mileage for an unexcused absence when the applicable house of the legislature lacks a quorum.

Impact

The proposed amendment seeks to deter unexcused absences by financially penalizing those members who fail to attend session days when their presence is essential for a quorum. If adopted, this amendment could significantly shift the culture within the legislature, emphasizing the importance of participation in legislative activities. Furthermore, by holding legislators accountable for their attendance, it could enhance the overall functionality and efficiency of legislative sessions, thereby streamlining the lawmaking process.

Summary

HJR35 is a joint resolution proposing a constitutional amendment that aims to refine the remuneration of members of the legislature in Texas. Specifically, the bill stipulates that legislators will not be entitled to receive any state salary, per diem, or reimbursement for mileage during periods of unexcused absence, particularly when a quorum is not present. This addresses accountability among lawmakers by linking their pay to attendance, ensuring that they contribute to the legislative process effectively.

Contention

While the notion of linking attendance with remuneration may seem straightforward, it is not without potential points of contention. Critics may argue that unforeseen circumstances could prevent attendance and that financial penalties may disproportionately affect members who face legitimate challenges. There is also a concern regarding how unexcused absences will be defined and enforced, as ambiguous definitions could lead to disputes over legitimacy. Consequently, this resolution may spark debates over fairness and the practical implications of such measures in ensuring legislative continuity.