BILL ANALYSIS

 

 

Senate Research Center                                                                                                       H.J.R. 36

80R589 RMB-D                                                                             By: McReynolds et al. (Watson)

                                                                                                                                      Jurisprudence

                                                                                                                                            4/11/2007

                                                                                                                                           Engrossed

 

 

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

 

The Texas Constitution currently requires a judge to  leave the bench when the judge turns 75 years of age or an earlier age, not less than 70 years, which the legislature prescribes as retirement age. 

 

H.J.R. 36 proposes a constitutional amendment to permit a judge reaching retirement age to complete the remainder of his or her term.

 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

 

This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency.

 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

 

SECTION 1.  Amends Section 1-a(1), Article V, Texas Constitution, to require the office of justices and judges of the appellate courts and district and criminal district courts to become vacant on the expiration of the term during which, rather than to become vacant when, the incumbent reaches the ages of 75 years or such earlier age, not less than 70 years, as the legislature may prescribe.

 

SECTION 2.  Requires this proposed constitutional amendment to be submitted to the voters at an election to be held November 6, 2007.  Sets forth the required language for the ballot.