Bill > HJR172

This Joint Resolution proposes an amendment to the Texas Constitution, specifically Article V, by adding a new Section 33. This amendment would grant the state legislature the authority to pass laws that allow a court to grant a "commutation of punishment" to certain individuals who are currently serving a prison sentence. A commutation of punishment is a reduction or alteration of a sentence, which could mean a shorter prison term or a change in the conditions of their confinement. The resolution also mandates that this proposed constitutional amendment be put to a vote of the people on November 7, 2023, with the ballot question clearly stating its purpose: to authorize the legislature to enact laws enabling courts to grant sentence reductions to specific incarcerated individuals.