Proposing a constitutional amendment to require that future constitutional amendments become effective only if approved by a majority of the voters in at least three-fourths of the counties of the state.
Impact
If enacted, SJR33 would impact various state laws governing the legislative process for constitutional amendments. The requirement for approval in three-fourths of the counties could hinder the speed and ease with which changes can be made to the Constitution, reflecting a desire to ensure that amendments have widespread acceptance across the state rather than relying solely on population density in urban areas. As a temporary provision, the amendment will take effect on January 1, 2024, but maintains an expiration date of January 1, 2025, for its enforcement concerning subsequent amendments.
Summary
SJR33 proposes a significant amendment to the Texas Constitution that would alter the process by which future constitutional amendments become effective. Specifically, the resolution stipulates that any proposed amendment must receive majority approval from voters in at least three-fourths of the counties in Texas. This marks a shift from the current process, where a simple majority statewide is sufficient for constitutional changes, aiming to ensure broader regional support before an amendment can be enacted.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SJR33 is mixed among lawmakers and the public. Proponents argue that this amendment would enhance democratic principles by ensuring that a larger geographical area of Texas supports constitutional changes, thereby reinforcing the voice of rural Texas. Critics, however, see potential issues with this requirement, asserting that it could complicate necessary reforms and lead to governmental stagnation, particularly for issues that garner significant state support but may lack widespread approval in less populated counties.
Contention
Notable points of contention in discussions around SJR33 include concerns over diminishing the influence of populous areas and the potential for manipulation of the amendment process based on geographic representation rather than equitable voting power. Opponents argue that the new requirement may empower smaller, less populated counties at the expense of larger urban areas, potentially frustrating the will of a majority of voters. Thus, the debate highlights the complex dynamics of representation and governance in Texas amidst evolving political contexts.
Proposing a constitutional amendment to require that future constitutional amendments become effective only if approved by a majority of the voters in at least three-fourths of the counties of the state.
A Constitutional Amendment Providing That A Proposed State-wide Initiated Act Or Constitutional Amendment Shall Become A Law When Approved By A Majority Of The Votes Cast In The Election And A Majority Of The Counties Of The State.
Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii State Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.
Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.
Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
(Constitutional Amendment) Provides for the election of constitutional convention delegates and vote requirements necessary for the adoption of a new constitution (RR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
(Constitutional Amendment) Modifies disposition of certain state revenues through repeal of the Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund and deposits of certain revenue streams into the Budget Stabilization Fund (RRF INCREASE GF RV See Note)
(Constitutional Amendment) Provides relative to the application of state monies to the unfunded accrued liability of the Teachers' Retirement System of La. (EN DECREASE SD RV See Note)
Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.