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SB 1187

Relating to an unauthorized vote by a delegate or alternate delegate to a federal Article V convention; creating a criminal offense.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Bryan Hughes

SB 1187 criminalizes Texas delegates voting against instructions at a federal Article V constitutional convention, establishing state penalties for unauthorized convention votes.

Left pending in committee
#crimes--miscellaneous(i0200) #legislature(i0520)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1187

Legislative bill overview

SB 1187 creates a criminal offense in Texas for delegates or alternate delegates to a federal Article V constitutional convention who cast votes contrary to their instructions or authorization. The bill establishes criminal penalties for unauthorized voting at such conventions, which are mechanisms for amending the U.S. Constitution outside the normal congressional process.

Why is this important

Article V conventions remain theoretical but contentious—no successful convention has occurred since 1787. This bill reflects growing concern among some policymakers about controlling delegate behavior at such a convention, should one be called. It addresses the practical question of how states can ensure delegates follow voter/legislature directives, touching on constitutional law, federalism, and state sovereignty.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional authority question: Unclear whether Texas can criminally penalize conduct at a federal convention, which operates under federal constitutional authority rather than state law
  • Enforcement challenges: Determining what constitutes "unauthorized" voting and proving intent would create significant legal ambiguity and litigation risk
  • Convention control debate: Reflects deeper disagreement over Article V conventions themselves—supporters see this as protective; opponents view it as part of efforts to enable conventions they oppose

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

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