TX
Texas House Bill HJR121
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
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Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HJR121

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

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment to require that future constitutional amendments become effective only if approved by a majority of the voters in at least three-fourths of the counties of the state.

Impact

If HJR121 is enacted, it would alter the current voting process for constitutional amendments, which only requires a simple majority of the overall votes cast in the state. This change could lead to fewer amendments being passed, as it sets a higher threshold that must be met, potentially reflecting a greater balance of power between urban and rural areas in Texas. Proponents argue that this could enhance the representation of smaller counties and rural communities, ensuring that their interests are prioritized in the face of larger urban populations.

Summary

HJR121 proposes a significant change to the Texas Constitution by requiring that any future constitutional amendments must receive approval not only from the majority of voters statewide but also from a majority in at least three-fourths of the counties. This amendment aims to ensure that the voices from diverse regions within Texas are appropriately represented when it comes to altering the state constitution. The proposed mechanism is intended to enhance local control and prevent any single metropolitan area from dominating the amendment process.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding HJR121. Opponents may argue that the requirement for a three-fourths majority could obstruct necessary reforms and limit the ability of citizens to enact progressive changes. Critics might suggest that this could entrench the status quo, making it difficult to address emerging challenges and adapt the constitution to the evolving needs of Texas residents. Supporters counter that such a requirement is essential for maintaining equitable representation and preventing the marginalization of less populous areas.

Provisions

The bill includes a temporary provision that stipulates the amendment will take effect on January 1, 2026, following its approval by voters during the election scheduled for November 4, 2025. This provision also indicates that the clause is temporary and will expire on January 1, 2027, applying exclusively to amendments proposed after this date. This timeline is meant to ensure clarity in enforcement while allowing for a transitional period as the state adjusts to the new voting requirements.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HJR1017

A Constitutional Amendment Providing That A Proposed State-wide Initiated Act Or Constitutional Amendment Shall Become A Law When Approved By A Majority Of The Votes Cast In The Election And A Majority Of The Counties Of The State.

TX S1406

Threshold for Voter Approval of Constitutional Amendments

TX SJR30

Modifies process for proposing and approving constitutional amendments

TX SB2315

Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii State Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.

TX SB1225

Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.

TX SB1225

Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.

TX HCR3003

The threshold for approving a constitutional amendment.

TX SCR1605

Proposing a constitutional amendment to grant counties home rule powers.

TX SB262

AN ACT proposing an amendment to Section 256 of the Constitution of Kentucky relating to the submission of constitutional amendments to voters.

TX SJR20

A Constitutional Amendment Concerning The Vote Requirements For Constitutional Amendments To Be Considered Approved At The General Election.

Similar Bills

LA HB472

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NJ ACR123

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NJ SCR75

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LA HB244

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LA HB473

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HI SB1225

Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.