Constitutional Amendments – Part 3

This is the third entry in our series on the proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution. This election will be on November 3rd. The review of each proposition can also be reviewed on my website at www.philking.com.

PROPOSITION 3

“The constitutional amendment repealing the requirement that state officers elected by voters statewide reside in the state capital.”

DIGEST: Currently certain state officers elected by the voters statewide, including the comptroller of public accounts, commissioner of the General Land Office, attorney general, commissioner of agriculture, and railroad commissioners, are to reside in Austin, at the state capital, while in office. Proposition 3 removes the residency requirement. The residence of the governor is not affected by this proposed amendment.

SUPPORTERS SAY: Current law requires all statewide officials to move to Travis County when they take office. The capital residency requirement was included in the 1875 Texas Constitution when state officers traveled to the state capital by train, horse and buggy. Some state officers would simply like the freedom to live in a neighboring county to Travis for selection of a preferred school district or similar local preference. Others wish to retain their residence in their home county commuting home on weekends.

OPPONENTS SAY: This amendment would allow state officers, who are serving in full-time paid positions, to be physically present at the state capital infrequently and to possibly neglect their duties of office. State officers serve as the chief operating officers for their respective agencies, which have central offices in Austin, and the officers’ duties require the officers to be available to the agency employees serving in Austin. State officers are often required to conduct statewide business at the seat of government, and residency in a location other than Austin may likely increase the state-reimbursed travel expenses of the officers.

MY RECOMMENDATION: SUPPORT

ICYMI: ISRAEl PRIME MINISTER BENJAMIN NETANYAHU SPEECH TO U.N.

Netanyahu’s speech last week was among the most compelling I’ve ever heard. It’s so rare to hear a true statesman. A link to the full speech can be found HERE.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Parker County Republican Women Monthly Luncheon – October 8th, 11:30 am at Doss Heritage Center

Wise County Republican Party meeting – Monday, October 12th, 6:30 pm at 200 Rook Ramsey, Decatur