WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HJR 41

Proposing a constitutional amendment relating to the determination of a quorum of the senate or house of representatives.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Cody Vasut

Proposed Texas constitutional amendment would modify quorum determination rules for the state Senate and House, potentially enabling legislative business with reduced member presence requirements.

Referred to State Affairs
#legislature(i0520) #resolutions--constitutionalamendments(i0661)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HJR 41

Legislative bill overview

HJR 41 proposes a constitutional amendment that would modify how the Texas Legislature determines whether a quorum (minimum required number of members) is present for the Senate or House to conduct official business. Currently, the Texas Constitution requires a quorum to be physically present in the chamber. This amendment would alter the constitutional requirements for establishing quorum.

Why is this important

Quorum requirements are fundamental to legislative legitimacy—they ensure that a meaningful majority of elected representatives are participating in lawmaking rather than allowing a small faction to pass laws. Changes to quorum rules directly affect how easily the legislature can function and what threshold of participation is needed for binding decisions.

Potential points of contention

  • Remote participation expansion: If the amendment enables virtual quorum determination, it raises questions about whether remote legislators should count toward quorum, potentially allowing business to proceed with reduced in-person accountability
  • Reduced legislative presence: Loosening quorum requirements could allow legislative business to continue with fewer members physically present, possibly reducing transparency and constituent oversight
  • Constitutional precedent: Any change to quorum rules sets precedent and could be used to justify further modifications to fundamental legislative procedures

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

Sign in to ask a question.