Bill > HJR148

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to Article V of the Texas Constitution that would authorize the state legislature to create laws allowing courts to grant commutation of punishment for certain individuals currently serving prison sentences. Commutation is a legal process that reduces a prisoner's sentence, typically based on factors such as good behavior, rehabilitation, or changing circumstances. The proposed amendment would give the legislature the power to establish specific criteria and procedures for courts to consider when evaluating potential sentence reductions. If approved, this amendment would be submitted to Texas voters for consideration at the November 4, 2025 election, with the ballot language specifically describing the proposed change as an authorization for the legislature to enact laws enabling courts to commute punishments for some imprisoned individuals. The resolution does not specify the exact details of who might be eligible for such commutation, leaving those specifics to be determined by future legislative action.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR148