Bill > HJR214

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to clarify procedures related to impeachment and removal of public officers in Texas. The amendment modifies Section 5 of Article XV to specify that officers facing impeachment will be suspended from their duties with ordinary pay, and allows the Governor to make provisional appointments to fill vacancies caused by such suspensions (except in the case of the Governor). It further amends Section 7 of Article XV to explicitly authorize the Legislature to create laws governing the trial and removal of state officers, including impeachment, trial, removal, and disqualification processes. The proposed amendment provides more detailed guidelines for handling impeachment scenarios, giving the Legislature broader authority to establish specific procedures while maintaining constitutional principles. The amendment would be submitted to voters in a November 4, 2025 election, with ballot language clearly describing its purpose of clarifying impeachment and removal provisions for public officers.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HJR214