West Virginia 2022 Regular Session

West Virginia House Bill HJR6

Introduced
1/12/22  

Caption

Requiring two-thirds vote of the Legislature to override a veto by the Governor amendment

Impact

If adopted, HJR6 would establish a higher threshold for overriding gubernatorial vetoes, potentially leading to diminished legislative effectiveness. By requiring a two-thirds majority, it may curtail the ability of the Legislature to counter executive decisions, thereby shifting the balance of power towards the office of the Governor. This change could influence future legislation significantly, particularly if the governing administration and the Legislature are controlled by different parties.

Summary

House Joint Resolution 6 (HJR6) proposes an amendment to the West Virginia State Constitution requiring a two-thirds vote from the Legislature to override a veto by the Governor. This initiative was introduced by Delegate Doyle and aims to modify section fourteen of article VII of the Constitution. The resolution seeks to ensure that bills that face gubernatorial disapproval can only become law with significant legislative consensus, modifying the historical dynamics of legislative power and gubernatorial authority in the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HJR6 appears to be mixed. Proponents argue it reinforces the need for broad legislative support when overriding a Governor's veto, which could stabilize governance by ensuring more collaborative law-making. However, critics fear that this proposed amendment reflects an effort to consolidate power within the executive branch and impede necessary legislative actions that respond to urgent public needs. The public discourse indicates a clear divide on the perceived implications of such a constitutional amendment.

Contention

Notable points of contention revolve around concerns about legislative autonomy versus the authority of the Governor. Advocates of HJR6 argue for effective governance, while detractors express worry that it could lead to a less accountable legislative body unable to challenge executive decisions effectively. The proposed change raises significant questions about democratic responsiveness in state governance and the balance of authority between elected branches.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WV HJR89

Proposing a constitutional amendment to allow the legislature to override a veto of the governor following a legislative session.

WV SJR39

Proposing a constitutional amendment to allow the legislature to override a veto of the governor following a regular session of the legislature.

WV SJR38

Proposing a constitutional amendment to limit the authority of the governor to veto a bill passed by both houses of the Texas Legislature with a vote of at least two-thirds of the members of each house.

WV H0085

Amends existing law to provide that the governor may veto certain initiative petitions approved by the voters and for voters to override a governor's veto.

WV HJR38

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the governor to call the legislature into special session on petition of at least two-thirds of the members of each house of the legislature.

WV SB191

Requiring petition of qualified voters for defeated amendment to be reconsidered

WV SJR2

Const. Am: Votes Needed For Veto Override

WV HJR46

Proposing a constitutional amendment changing the vote requirement in the legislature to approve a proposed constitutional amendment for submission to the voters of this state to two-thirds of the members present in each chamber of the legislature.

WV SJR45

Constitutional amendment; requiring certain vote of people to change compensation of members of the Legislature.

WV HB4431

Requiring the approval of the Legislature and the Governor before additional bonds may be issued by the Parkways Authority

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