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House passes HB 18, limits fundraising and imposes penalties for members who break quorum by leaving Texas
Summary
The Texas House passed HB 18 after extended debate and multiple amendments. The bill bars certain campaign contributions and travel expenditures for members the chamber deems absent for the purpose of breaking quorum, authorizes civil penalties up to $5,000 per violation, and sets procedures for enforcement.
The Texas House on Wednesday passed House Bill 18, a measure restricting fundraising and certain campaign expenditures by lawmakers the chamber determines were absent from the state to impede proceedings and authorizing civil penalties of up to $5,000 per violation.
Supporters say the bill removes a financial incentive for quorum-breaking absences and preserves the legislature's ability to carry out its constitutional duties. "HB 18 establishes penalties for lawmakers who intentionally break quorum for the purpose of bringing the Texas legislature to a halt," Representative Shaheen, the bill's author, told members on the floor.
Opponents said the bill chills a constitutionally rooted tactic used by legislative minorities and could punish ordinary constituents who donate small amounts to support lawmakers. "The right to peacefully dissent is a founding principle of our…
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