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SJR 39

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

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Brian Birdwell and 1 co-sponsor

Texas constitutional amendment would let the legislature override a governor's veto after regular sessions end, shifting power away from the executive branch.

Referred to State Affairs
#governor(i0375) #legislature(i0520) #resolutions--constitutionalamendments(i0661)
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Bill Summary · SJR 39

Legislative bill overview

SJR 39 proposes a constitutional amendment to Texas's veto override process, allowing the legislature to override a gubernatorial veto following a regular legislative session. Currently, Texas law only permits veto overrides during special sessions called by the governor. This amendment would expand the legislature's authority to check executive power by enabling overrides at any point after a regular session concludes.

Why is this important

This change would fundamentally alter the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches in Texas. It would reduce the governor's leverage during negotiations with lawmakers by removing the governor's ability to control when (or whether) veto overrides can be attempted. The practical effect could shift significant policy-making authority from the governor's office to the legislature, particularly on bills the governor opposes but the legislature supports.

Potential points of contention

  • Executive authority erosion: Governors argue the current system preserves necessary executive power to negotiate with lawmakers and protect their policy agenda; this amendment diminishes that leverage considerably
  • Legislative efficiency concerns: Some contend allowing overrides after regular sessions end could create prolonged uncertainty about bill finality and complicate the governor's ability to manage the legislative calendar
  • Partisan implications: The timing and substance of veto overrides could become more politically contentious if legislature-controlled attempts are no longer gated by the governor's special session authority

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

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