Bill > HJR29

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment that modifies the impeachment process in Texas by establishing new procedural requirements and removing an existing suspension provision. Specifically, the resolution requires that before the House of Representatives can impeach an officer, a committee must first adopt and file articles of impeachment with the chief clerk, with a mandatory 14-day waiting period before consideration. The resolution mandates that within 24 hours of filing, the committee must make all investigative evidence available to House members, and requires all witnesses in impeachment investigations to testify under oath. The amendment also guarantees that an officer under investigation has the right to cross-examine witnesses. Additionally, the resolution repeals the current requirement that an officer be automatically suspended from their duties upon impeachment articles being preferred. The proposed amendment would take effect on January 1, 2026, and apply only to impeachment proceedings initiated after that date. The amendment will be submitted to Texas voters for approval in a November 4, 2025 election, with the ballot providing a clear description of the proposed changes.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR29