Bill > HJR158

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to modify the legislative process during regular sessions of the Texas Legislature. The amendment changes the first 60 days of a legislative session from being solely devoted to bill introduction to now allowing for both introduction and action on bills, including holding committee hearings. Previously, the first 30 days were more restrictive, with limited focus on emergency appropriations and gubernatorial recess appointee confirmations. The new provision allows legislators to more actively engage with bills throughout the entire session, with committees able to hold hearings and the legislature able to act on pending bills during the remainder of the session. Additionally, the resolution maintains the legislature's ability to consider gubernatorial recess appointees and emergency appropriations at any point during the regular session. The proposed amendment will be submitted to Texas voters for approval at an election on November 4, 2025, with the ballot specifically asking voters whether they support changing the legislative session procedures.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR158