Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and House Speaker Dustin Burrows have filed a legal complaint in California to enforce arrest warrants against Democratic legislators who fled the state to obstruct the legislative process. The August 9 filing aims to compel the return of lawmakers who broke quorum on August 4.
Filing Details
“Texans are fed up with lawmakers who refuse to do their jobs and instead run away to states like California to exploit radical governors’ broken political systems as a shield,” Paxton said. “Gavin Newsom may be comfortable with lawlessness and the protection of corrupt legislators, but Texas will not tolerate elected officials who defy the Constitution for political theater.”
Burrows emphasized the need for lawmakers to return to work. “The Texas House stands ready to conduct the work expected of us by our constituents, but until the absent members return, our state will continue to do without critical disaster relief and solutions for a more prepared and resilient Texas,” Burrows said.
Legal Grounds
The filing in California mirrors a similar petition filed in Illinois earlier this week. Both legal actions invoke the Full Faith and Credit Clause of the U.S. Constitution, requiring California to honor Texas’ legal proceedings and enforce the arrest warrants issued by the Texas House.
Under the Texas Constitution, Article III, Section 10, the legislature has the authority to compel attendance, and House Rule 5, Section 8 specifically allows arrest warrants for absent members who fail to provide sufficient excuse.
Burrows added, “Working with Attorney General Paxton, I will continue taking all necessary actions to bring these members back to fulfill their obligations to the legislative process and the people of our state.”
Republican Criticism of the Situation
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Texas Representative Brian Harrison voiced frustration with the situation, suggesting that the current standoff could have been avoided. Harrison argued, “Texas Republicans ALLOWED the quorum break to happen.” He continued to criticize the handling of the battle in the Texas House, adding another layer to the ongoing conflict within the state’s political landscape.
Ongoing Legislative Gridlock
The standoff has crippled the Texas Legislature, halting critical legislation, including disaster relief for flood victims. With no clear timeline for the return of the absent lawmakers, essential measures to support the state’s recovery remain in limbo.