Texas House Speaker Announces Arrest Warrants for Absent Democrats

Legislative Session Disruption

• 🎯 The Texas House is facing a quorum issue due to members leaving the state, delaying important legislative work.
• ⚠️ This disruption prevents the House from addressing critical issues such as funding for flood victims, policy changes for future floods, eliminating the STAR test, and combating human trafficking.

Speaker's Response to Absence

• 📢 Speaker Dustin Burrows announced that civil arrest warrants have been issued for the absent Democratic lawmakers.
• 🤝 The Speaker is working with the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to locate these members and ensure they attend the special session.
• 💰 Daily fines will be automatically imposed on absent members as per House rules.

Governor's Support and Future Actions

• 🏛️ The Governor has called the special session and is offering full support, including DPS assistance, to establish a quorum.
• 🗣️ While communication lines remain open, the Speaker is hopeful for the members' return to address the state's business.
• ⚖️ The Speaker declined to give a legal opinion on whether absent members have forfeited their right to hold office, emphasizing the need to study all facts and laws.

Unwavering Commitment to Duty

• ✅ Despite the delays, the Speaker assured that the House will complete its required duties and address the issues on the call.
• 🗓️ The House plans to reconvene and conduct the business of the state of Texas.