Bill > HJR60

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to Article V of the Texas Constitution that would authorize the state legislature to create laws enabling courts to grant commutations of punishment for certain individuals currently serving prison sentences. Specifically, the amendment would add a new Section 33 to Article V, allowing the legislature to develop general laws that permit courts to reduce or modify the sentences of specific prisoners. The proposed amendment would be submitted to Texas voters for approval at an election on November 4, 2025, with ballot language that clearly describes the proposed constitutional change. If approved by voters, this amendment would provide an additional mechanism for judicial review and potential sentence modification, giving courts more discretion in determining appropriate punishments for imprisoned individuals who may meet certain yet-to-be-defined criteria. The resolution uses the term "commutation of punishment," which legally means the reduction or modification of a criminal sentence without changing the underlying conviction.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR60