Bill > HJR87

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to give Texas voters direct legislative power through two primary mechanisms: initiative and referendum. The initiative process would allow registered voters to propose new state laws or constitutional amendments by submitting a petition with signatures from at least 5% (for statutory measures) or 6% (for constitutional measures) of voters in each Texas Senate district and statewide. The proposed measure would first be reviewed by the Texas Legislative Council for form and constitutionality, and then by the Legislative Budget Board for a fiscal analysis. If certified, the proposed measure would be placed on the ballot, with statutory measures requiring a simple majority to pass and constitutional amendments requiring a 60% supermajority. The referendum process would enable voters to petition to repeal existing laws enacted by the legislature, with similar signature requirements and procedural safeguards. Petitioners would need to file their request within 180 days of a law's enactment, and if successful, the repeal would be decided by a majority vote. The amendment is designed to be self-executing, meaning it can be implemented without additional legislation, and explicitly prohibits laws that would impede these new democratic processes. The proposed amendment would be submitted to voters in a November 2025 election.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR87