Texas Bail Amendment Fails in House, Raising Concerns for Future Legislation
AUSTIN — A proposed amendment to the Texas Constitution aimed at denying bail to alleged repeat offenders of certain violent crimes has failed to secure the necessary votes in the House. The bill, a key priority for Governor Greg Abbott, fell just three votes short of the 100-vote super majority required for constitutional amendments. With the legislative session ending on Monday, there is no option for a re-vote.
The intense 45-minute debate concluded with a stunned silence among lawmakers. The failure of Senate Joint Resolution 87 marked a rare setback for Republicans, prompting questions about the viability of a related amendment intended to prevent bail for undocumented immigrants accused of violent felonies.
Sponsoring Republican Rep. Mitch Little of Lewisville criticized those voting against the measure, stating, “For those of you who try to go back to your districts and defend it, you will fail. It is indefensible.” While the vote fell largely along party lines, a few Democrats, including Reps. Rafael Anchía and Salman Bhojani, supported the amendment.
The legislation aimed to limit judges’ bail discretion for serious crimes like capital murder and aggravated assault, citing instances of violent crimes committed by individuals already released on bail. An earlier proposal that requires district judges to justify bail decisions for violent felonies has already passed and will be put to voters in November.
Opponents, particularly among Democrats, expressed concerns about due process and disproportionate impacts on non-white communities. Rep. Mary González highlighted the need for constructive solutions rather than legislation motivated by tragedy.
The vote ultimately ended at 97-40, with several members absent or choosing to vote present. The future of similar bail restriction amendments remains uncertain.
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