Texas House Bill HB141

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

• Filed: 8/15/25

Caption

Relating to a vacancy in the office of senator or representative due to excessive absence.

Impact

If enacted, HB141 would have significant implications on state legislative procedures, potentially altering the existing processes for handling absences in the legislature. The bill may lead to more efficient operations within the legislative assembly, ensuring that representatives and senators are held accountable for their attendance and responsibilities. By addressing excessive absence specifically, it seeks to promote active participation in governance and may pave the way for quicker resolutions in filling necessary vacancies.

Summary

House Bill 141 addresses the issue of vacancies in the office of a senator or representative, specifically focusing on instances that arise due to excessive absence. The bill is aimed at establishing clearer parameters for when a vacancy should be declared in the legislative offices, potentially streamlining the process for filling such positions. This legislative move is seen as a response to concerns about officials who may not fulfill their duties effectively due to prolonged absence, thereby ensuring legislative responsibilities are met without undue delay.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB141 could be related to how 'excessive absence' is defined and what thresholds are deemed acceptable before a vacancy is declared. There may be concerns raised regarding the fairness and appropriateness of such definitions, as they may vary based on individual circumstances. Additionally, this bill could invoke discussions about the rights of elected officials regarding their absence due to valid personal, health, or other legitimate reasons, raising the potential for legal and ethical debates within the legislature.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 301. Legislative Organization
  • Section: New Section