Proposing a constitutional amendment prohibiting the imposition of a carbon tax.

Texas House Joint Resolution 138 (HJR138) was a proposed amendment to the Texas Constitution introduced on February 14, 2025. The resolution aimed to prohibit the state legislature from imposing taxes on the carbon content of fuels or on the emission of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases resulting from the use, production, or consumption of goods and services. The proposed amendment was to be submitted to voters in a November 4, 2025 election. ([legiscan.com](https://legiscan.com/TX/text/HJR138/id/3121684?utm_source=openai))

While specific media coverage of HJR138 is limited, the bill's introduction aligns with Texas' historical stance against carbon taxes. The state's significant role in the oil and gas industry, producing over 40% of the nation's crude oil in 2023, underscores the potential economic impact of such taxes. Proponents likely viewed the resolution as a safeguard for the state's energy sector and economic interests. ([legiscan.com](https://legiscan.com/TX/supplement/HJR138/id/561682?utm_source=openai))

Detailed media reactions to HJR138 are scarce. However, the bill's introduction may have been met with concern from environmental advocates who support carbon taxes as a tool to combat climate change. The resolution's potential to limit the state's ability to implement environmental policies could have been viewed as a setback in efforts to address greenhouse gas emissions. ([legiscan.com](https://legiscan.com/TX/supplement/HJR138/id/561682?utm_source=openai))