We Keep Voting

With all of the hubbub about redistricting and the redrawing of Congressional districts, it can be helpful to focus on the simple reality that no matter which district we are jostled and corralled to be in, our fundamental right and duty remains the same—to vote. The next opportunity for us to demonstrate the power-of-the-polls is right around the corner with the November 4 Constitutional Amendment election.

There are more proposed amendments on the Nov. 4 ballot than we’ve seen since 2003. The proposed amendments cover a wide range—tax relief (Prop 2-11, 13, 17), public safety (bail, judicial oversight), education and workforce funding (Props 1, 4), parental and voting rules (Props 15-16), and major health research funding (Prop 14). Each measure, if it gets a majority of votes, becomes part of Texas’s constitution. Once something becomes a part of the state constitution, it makes future changes much more difficult, requiring another legislative supermajority and voter approval. That is why it is so crucial that we understand and weigh in on these issues.

Some background information

The Texas Constitution is our foundational legal document that outlines the structure and functions of the state government. It lays out the rights of citizens and the limits of state power. It is not meant to be changed without substantial political and public support.

Only the Texas Legislature can propose constitutional amendments—citizens cannot initiate statewide referenda or ballot initiatives. Proposed amendments are styled SJR 1, HJR 1, and so forth, short for Senate Joint Resolution or House Joint Resolution. A joint resolution must pass each chamber by a two-thirds supermajority (at least 100 House votes and 21 Senate votes). Once passed, the proposed amendment is placed on the ballot for a general election (in this case, November 4, 2025). Voters vote “yes” or “no” and a simple majority of votes cast decides approval. The amendment may add to, remove from, or modify the text of the constitution.

County clerks must post the full amendment text at least 30 days before the election, and the Attorney General reviews and approves explanatory statements that appear in newspapers and on the ballot. The Texas Secretary of State, Jane Nelson, drew the ballot order in June 2025, confirming 17 separate propositions will appear in the November election.

Why so many amendments at this time?

As legislators address property taxes, water, education, judicial reform, and criminal justice, they chose to embed many changes into the constitution—meaning if voters approve, legislature-level rollback becomes much harder. Critics argue this bypasses regular budget oversight and reduces flexibility. In practice, this centralizes power with the state’s legislative body—specifically with the leadership of the Texas House and Senate.

This video was posted 7 years ago on Texas Impact’s YouTube channel, and it is just as eerily relevant today as it was then.

How do I know whether to vote ‘yes’ or ‘no?’

There are a number of ways to inform yourself about the proposed Constitutional Amendments prior to November 4.

• Read what the proposed amendments are (and the “plain English” version) here.

• Call your state representative and senator to ask how they voted on these amendments and why.

• Attend a workshop in Houston about the amendments and the importance of voting in this election.

• Plan a Voter Information Session at your congregation. (Contact TXI for support and resources.)

• Gather a few folks from your congregation to meet with your legislator(s) to discuss how the amendments will impact your city/district.

Where do I vote and am I registered?

Make sure your voter registration is current and find your polling place here!

Remember, politicians can do all kinds of crazy things like re-drawing district maps mid-decade in an attempt to garner political power, but the power that they are after lies in our collective hands. Let’s use it!