Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SCR9

Caption

Urging Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification the "Keep Nine" amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Impact

If enacted, the resolution would express a formal stance from the Texas Legislature advocating for the preservation of the Supreme Court's composition. It reflects a growing concern among some lawmakers and constituents regarding potential changes that might undermine judicial independence. The passage of SCR9 would not directly alter state laws but signals to Texas lawmakers, the national legislative body, and the citizenry the importance of maintaining a stable and independent judiciary.

Summary

SCR9, a Senate Concurrent Resolution, aims to urge Congress to propose and submit for ratification the 'Keep Nine' amendment to the U.S. Constitution. This proposed amendment seeks to ensure that the Supreme Court of the United States maintains a consistent composition of nine justices, which proponents argue is crucial for upholding the independence of the judiciary. The resolution emphasizes that over the history of the U.S. Supreme Court, it has traditionally comprised nine justices, thus advocating against any attempts by the president or Congress to alter this number.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SCR9 appears supportive among its proponents, who view it as a necessary safeguard against potential political motives that could influence the composition of the Supreme Court. The resolution garnered significant support in the legislature, passing the Senate with a vote of 27 to 3 and the House with 87 to 46, indicating a level of bipartisan consensus on the need to maintain judicial independence. Critics of any potential changes to judicial composition may see this resolution as a valid and necessary position.

Contention

There are notable points of contention amongst legal scholars and lawmakers regarding the Supreme Court's composition and its implications for checks and balances within the government. While SCR9 is largely viewed as a protective measure for maintaining judicial integrity, there are debates about the necessity of such measures, particularly among those who argue that judicial reform may be needed in the wake of perceived partisanship within the court. The resolution encapsulates a broader dialogue concerning the balance of power within the federal government's three branches.

Companion Bills

TX HCR33

Identical Urging Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification the "Keep Nine" amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Previously Filed As

TX HCR33

Urging Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification the "Keep Nine" amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

TX HCR82

Urging the U.S. Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification a federal balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

TX SCR28

Urging Congress to propose and send to the states for ratification a constitutional amendment to clarify that the states and Congress may reasonably regulate and limit the spending of money to influence campaigns, elections, or ballot measures.

TX HCR79

TX HJR2005

A joint resolution urging the United States Congress to propose an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to require the Supreme Court of the United States to be composed of nine justices.

TX SJR2001

TX SR112

A resolution urging the United States Congress to propose an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to require the Supreme Court of the United States to be composed of nine justices.

TX SCR20

Petitions Congress to submit a constitutional amendment to the states relating to campaign finance

TX SCR98

Urging The United States Congress To Call A Convention For Proposing Amendments Pursuant To Article V Of The United States Constitution Limited To Proposing Amendments That Impose Fiscal Restraints On The Federal Government, Limit The Power And Jurisdiction Of The Federal Government, And Limit The Terms Of Office For Its Officials And Members Of Congress.

TX HJR5002

Applying to the United States Congress under Article V of the United States Constitution to call for a convention for proposing an amendment to the constitution establishing congressional term limits.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.