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HJR 191

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring automatic resignation of a city council member or member of the board of trustees of a school district who becomes a candidate for the legislature or the United States Congress.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Matt Shaheen

Texas constitutional amendment would force automatic resignation of city council members and school board trustees who run for state legislature or Congress.

Referred to State Affairs
#citygovernment--employees/officers(i0061) #congress(i0085) #education--schooldistricts(i0220) #elections--candidates(i0280) #legislature(i0520) #resolutions--constitutionalamendments(i0661)
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Bill Summary · HJR 191

Legislative bill overview

HJR 191 proposes a constitutional amendment that would require city council members and school board trustees in Texas to automatically resign their positions if they become candidates for the state legislature or U.S. Congress. This would apply statewide and would necessitate voter approval through a statewide referendum to become law.

Why is this important

This addresses concerns about potential conflicts of interest and divided attention when local officials simultaneously serve in their current position while campaigning for higher office. It could affect how local governance operates during election cycles and changes the rules governing political career progression in Texas.

Potential points of contention

  • Restrictions on political ambition: Critics argue this limits citizens' constitutional rights to seek higher office and may discourage qualified candidates from local service if advancement is prohibited
  • Automatic vs. voluntary: The automatic nature removes individual choice and discretion, potentially affecting officials mid-term without their consent to resign
  • Practical consequences: Could create frequent special elections to fill vacancies, disrupting continuity in local government during critical periods and imposing costs on municipalities and school districts
  • Fairness questions: May disproportionately impact ambitious younger politicians seeking career advancement while potentially disadvantaging areas that rely on developing talent through local office

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

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