The implications of HB898 extend into numerous areas of state law, particularly involving the relationship between state and federal governance. Should this bill be enacted, it would empower Texas officials to declare federal actions as unconstitutional, effectively nullifying those actions within Texas. The act calls for compliance from public officials at all governmental levels to defend the state's constitutional rights, creating a significant shift in the dynamic between state and federal regulations and enforcement.
Summary
House Bill 898, known as the Texas Sovereignty Act, is designed to assert and enforce the state of Texas's rights under the United States Constitution, particularly invoking the Tenth Amendment, which reserves powers not delegated to the federal government back to the states. The bill establishes a framework for the Texas legislature to challenge any federal actions deemed unconstitutional, aiming to protect state sovereignty from perceived encroachments by the federal government. This involves setting up a Joint Legislative Committee on Constitutional Enforcement tasked with reviewing federal actions and determining their constitutionality.
Contention
Notably, the bill has sparked debate among lawmakers and community members regarding the appropriateness of Texas asserting such authority. Proponents laud the bill as a necessary measure to protect states' rights and prevent the federal government from overstepping its bounds. Conversely, opponents argue that such a course could lead to legal precedents that undermine federal law and create inconsistencies in governance. This position highlights the ongoing tensions regarding state versus federal authority, particularly in areas concerning civil rights and social regulations.
Same As
Relating to the authority of the legislature to determine that certain federal directives are unconstitutional and to prohibit certain government officers and employees from enforcing or assisting in the enforcement of the directive.
Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.
Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the southern border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity and public health threats; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.
Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing the Texas Homeland Security Division and the Border Security Advisory Council, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.
Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity, and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.
Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity, and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.
Relating to the authority of the legislature to determine that certain federal directives are unconstitutional and to prohibit certain government officers and employees from enforcing or assisting in the enforcement of the directive.
Relating to the authority of the legislature or a state court to declare certain federal actions to be unconstitutional federal actions, including the effect and enforcement of such a declaration.