Bill > SB2051

This bill establishes detailed procedures and rules for impeachment proceedings in Texas, focusing on testimony, voting, and cost reporting. The bill requires all witness testimony in impeachment proceedings to be given under oath and in open sessions, and allows the subject of an impeachment to have legal counsel present during their testimony without the ability to cross-examine other witnesses. For house impeachment committees, the bill mandates that committee reports and materials must be provided to house members at least 72 hours before deliberations, and prohibits voting during this review period. The legislation also introduces restrictions on voting in impeachment proceedings for members who are closely related to or were previously married to the officer being investigated. Additionally, the bill specifies that for gubernatorial or lieutenant gubernatorial impeachment trials, the presiding officer will be the Chief Justice of the Texas Supreme Court, with alternative judges specified if the initial choices are unavailable. Importantly, the bill clarifies that public officers can only be removed for acts committed while holding an elected or appointed office, not for actions taken before assuming office. The bill is contingent on a related constitutional amendment being approved by voters and is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, with provisions for keeping detailed accountings of impeachment proceeding costs to be reported to various state entities.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB2051