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HJR 89

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

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Mihaela Pleșa

Proposes constitutional amendment allowing Texas Legislature to override gubernatorial vetoes after legislative session ends, shifting executive-legislative power balance.

Referred to State Affairs
#governor(i0375) #houseofrepresentatives(v0096) #legislature(i0520) #resolutions--constitutionalamendments(i0661) #senate #texas(v0227)
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Bill Summary · HJR 89

Legislative bill overview

HJR 89 proposes a constitutional amendment that would allow the Texas Legislature to override a gubernatorial veto even after the legislative session has ended. Currently, Texas law requires veto overrides to occur during the same legislative session in which the veto was issued. This amendment would extend the override window beyond session adjournment.

Why is this important

This change would fundamentally alter the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches in Texas. It could reduce gubernatorial leverage during negotiations, as the threat of a veto would carry less weight if the Legislature could override it months later. The practical impact depends on implementation details—specifically, what timeframe would be allowed for post-session overrides.

Potential points of contention

  • Executive power erosion: Governors argue that post-session vetoes serve as important checks on legislation, and extending override opportunities weakens this constitutional power
  • Legislative clarity and finality: Businesses and agencies need to know the final status of laws; allowing indefinite override periods creates extended uncertainty about what legislation is actually in effect
  • Partisan timing advantage: The party controlling the Legislature could use post-session overrides strategically if they gain seats in the next election or if public opinion shifts, turning vetoes into temporary rather than final rejections

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

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