The Texas House has passed House Bill 18, a controversial measure that would ban state lawmakers from raising campaign funds for themselves or their caucuses while breaking quorum.
The legislation was prompted by the walkout by House Democrats, who left the state to prevent a vote on congressional redistricting maps that would have favored Republicans. That quorum break drew national attention and political donations, with more than $1 million raised by Democratic-aligned groups during that time.
Republicans argue the bill is necessary to ensure lawmakers are present for legislative duties and not financially rewarded for obstruction.
“I prefer if you break quorum, you can't fundraise,” said Rep. Keresa Richardson (R). “The rest of us were showing up every day. We were doing our jobs.”
Democrats strongly oppose the bill, calling it punitive and politically motivated.
Rep. Chris Turner (D) called it “retribution,” saying, “We fought back, and they don't like it — but that's too bad.”
Turner and others argue that the Texas Constitution allows lawmakers to break quorum as a legislative tool, particularly in response to what they see as gerrymandered policies.
HB 18 would also prevent legislative caucuses from receiving funds collected during a quorum break, closing a loophole that previously allowed organizations to support legislators indirectly.
This includes funds like those donated by Beto O'Rourke’s Powered By People, which gave over $1 million to Democratic caucuses during the special session.
Democrats are already facing more than $9,000 in fines for past quorum breaks, and additional penalties may follow. The House is reportedly reviewing rule changes to further discourage future walkouts.
The bill now heads to the Texas Senate for consideration.
