Texas Legislature proposes new law for suspension and removal of elected officials

Texas lawmakers have introduced House Bill 2715, a significant legislative proposal aimed at establishing a clear framework for the suspension and removal of elected officials in the state. Proposed by Representative Curry and introduced on February 12, 2025, the bill seeks to address concerns regarding accountability among public officers.

The bill outlines specific provisions that empower the governor to suspend an elected official if they are found to have violated their oath of office by failing to execute state laws. Upon suspension, the governor is required to file a petition for removal in the appropriate district court, either in the official's county of residence or in Travis County for state officers. This suspension is temporary, pending a jury trial to determine the validity of the removal grounds.

Key sections of the bill detail the trial process, which is designed to mirror civil court proceedings. A jury will evaluate the evidence presented and decide whether the grounds for removal are substantiated. If the jury finds in favor of removal, the official is immediately ousted from their position, and a provisional appointment is made to fill the vacancy. Conversely, if the jury rules against the removal, the suspension is lifted, and the temporary appointment is terminated.

The introduction of HB2715 has sparked notable discussions among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Proponents argue that the bill enhances governmental accountability and provides a necessary mechanism to address misconduct among elected officials. Critics, however, express concerns about the potential for political misuse of the suspension power, fearing it could lead to partisan actions against officials.

The implications of this bill could be far-reaching, as it establishes a formal process for addressing misconduct that could influence public trust in elected officials. As the legislative session progresses, the bill will likely undergo further scrutiny and debate, with potential amendments aimed at balancing accountability with protections against political abuse.

As Texas continues to grapple with issues of governance and public trust, HB2715 represents a critical step towards ensuring that elected officials are held accountable for their actions while also safeguarding the integrity of the political process. The next steps will involve committee reviews and discussions that will shape the bill's final form and its potential impact on Texas governance.