WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HJR 29

Proposing a constitutional amendment providing that members of the legislature are not entitled to receive a state salary, per diem, or reimbursement for mileage for an unexcused absence when the applicable house of the legislature lacks a quorum.

89th Legislature, 2nd Called Session (2025) Introduced by Shelby Slawson

Texas constitutional amendment would strip lawmakers' pay and per diem for unexcused absences when their chamber lacks quorum, targeting attendance accountability.

Filed
#legislature(i0520) #resolutions--constitutionalamendments(i0661) #salaries&expenses(i0745)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HJR 29

Legislative bill overview

HJR 29 proposes a constitutional amendment that would prohibit Texas legislators from receiving their salary, per diem, or mileage reimbursement when their chamber lacks a quorum and they are unexcused from attendance. This would require voter approval to amend the Texas Constitution and would apply financial penalties to legislators for unexcused absences that contribute to the chamber not having enough members present for business.

Why is this important

Quorum requirements ensure that a minimum number of legislators are present to conduct official business legitimately. By creating financial consequences for unexcused absences during quorum failures, this amendment attempts to incentivize attendance and prevent legislators from deliberately avoiding votes or blocking chamber proceedings. The measure directly impacts legislative operations and compensation structures in Texas.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition ambiguity: The bill doesn't clearly define what constitutes an "unexcused" absence or who determines excusability, potentially creating disputes about legitimate reasons for absence (illness, family emergency, etc.)
  • Compensation equity concerns: This penalty system could disproportionately affect part-time or rural legislators with longer commutes or those with inflexible employment obligations, raising fairness questions
  • Quorum manipulation risk: The amendment might incentivize legislative tactics where one party deliberately breaks quorum to prevent votes they oppose, as the financial penalty may not outweigh the political benefit of blocking legislation

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.