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Bill

Bill

HJR 95

Proposing a constitutional amendment to limit the time that a person may serve as a member of the Texas Legislature, a statewide elected officer in the executive branch, or a state employee in the legislative or executive branch of state government.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Carl Tepper

Constitutional amendment proposing term limits for Texas state legislators, statewide officials, and state employees; requires voter approval to take effect.

Referred to State Affairs
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Bill Summary · HJR 95

Legislative bill overview

HJR 95 proposes a constitutional amendment that would impose term limits on Texas state legislators, statewide elected executive officials (like the Governor), and career state employees working in the legislative and executive branches. The amendment would require voter approval before taking effect.

Why is this important

Term limits would fundamentally reshape Texas politics by preventing long-serving incumbents from maintaining power through repeated elections. This could increase turnover, reduce institutional knowledge, and affect the balance of power between experienced legislators and newer members, while also impacting state workforce stability and expertise.

Potential points of contention

  • Vagueness on specific term limits: The bill doesn't specify how many terms would be allowed (e.g., 8 years, 12 years, lifetime limits), leaving critical details undefined
  • Impact on state employee rights: Imposing term limits on career civil service employees raises questions about job security, merit-based employment, and government continuity
  • Voter choice restriction: Critics argue term limits prevent voters from re-electing experienced leaders they prefer, while supporters contend they reduce entrenched power
  • Practical implementation: Unclear how the amendment would apply to employees mid-career and whether it affects hiring, promotion, and retention in state agencies

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

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