In response to the Democrat quorum break earlier this month, the Texas Senate advanced legislation to prohibit lawmakers and statewide officials from raising campaign funds during special sessions.
Senate Bill 19 by State Sen. Paul Bettencourt (R–Houston) expands existing state law, which already bans campaign contributions during regular legislative sessions, to include special sessions convened before September 1 of an odd-numbered year.
Under the bill, statewide officials and legislators would be barred from making or accepting contributions for the duration of the session. Contributions received within that period must be returned within 30 days.
The legislation comes after Democrats fled the state earlier this month to prevent passage of a new congressional map, using the time to solicit campaign contributions.
That practice drew fire from Republicans and culminated late Friday evening when a planned filibuster by State Sen. Carol Alvarado (D–Houston) over redistricting maps was shut down after it was revealed she had sent out a fundraising email earlier in the day.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick praised the measure following its passage.
“This bill will prevent Democrats from breaking quorum in the future, since these ‘vacations’ are very hard to maintain without donor funds,” said Patrick. “Additionally, this bill will cut down on the number of special sessions we have, as well as their length, and encourage legislators to remain present and on task, saving taxpayers money.”
SB 19 has been placed on Tuesday’s calendar in the House.
