Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the governor to call the legislature into special session on petition of at least two-thirds of the members of each house of the legislature.

House Joint Resolution 38 (HJR38) is a proposed amendment to the Texas Constitution that would require the governor to convene a special session of the legislature if at least two-thirds of the members of both the House and the Senate request it. The petition must specify the date and the specific topics to be addressed during the session. This amendment aims to provide the legislature with a mechanism to call itself into special session under certain conditions, rather than relying solely on the governor's discretion.

Supporters of HJR38 argue that it enhances the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches by allowing the legislature to address urgent matters without waiting for the governor's call. They believe this change would enable more responsive governance, particularly in times of crisis or when immediate legislative action is necessary.

Opponents of HJR38 contend that it could lead to an increase in special sessions, potentially resulting in legislative overreach and increased costs. They also express concern that this amendment might undermine the governor's authority and disrupt the traditional separation of powers within the state government.