Texas has just made its harshest move yet against the absent lawmakers
Texas Cracks Down on Absent Lawmakers
In a bold move, the Texas House voted to cut off direct deposit for Democratic lawmakers who fled the state. These members won’t receive their paychecks until they return to Texas in person.
Daily Fines Add Financial Pressure
The penalties don’t stop there. Each absent lawmaker faces a $500 daily fine for every day they skip. These fines are quickly piling up, fueling rising tensions in Austin.
Breaking the Quorum Sparks Standoff
This crackdown follows weeks of political deadlock. Democrats broke quorum to block voting legislation, frustrating Texas officials who say enough is enough. Now, the state targets lawmakers’ wallets to end the stalemate.
Nationwide Debate Ignites
The standoff has ignited fierce debate across the country. Supporters claim the absent lawmakers shirked their duties and deserve consequences. Critics argue the penalties amount to political retaliation.
Financial Toll Grows With Absence
One thing is certain: the longer these lawmakers stay away, the heavier their financial burden will be when they return.