AUSTIN, TX — A Texas House committee voted Friday to fine dozens of Democratic lawmakers who left the state during special legislative sessions last year, escalating a dispute over quorum-breaking tactics.
The House Committee on Administration approved penalties for 53 Democrats, fining each lawmaker $8,354 for their absence during sessions called by Gov. Greg Abbott. The vote followed a closed-door hearing and passed along party lines.
Democrats had left Texas in 2025 to block a Republican-backed redistricting effort, temporarily halting legislative business by denying the chamber a quorum. State leaders responded by issuing arrest warrants and pursuing legal action to compel their return, though courts in other states declined to enforce those efforts.
The fines include $6,000 tied to daily penalties for missed sessions and $2,354 in costs associated with enforcement actions, such as attempts by state authorities to locate absent members.
Democratic lawmakers criticized the process, arguing they were not given sufficient time to review evidence supporting the penalties and raising concerns about transparency and due process. Republicans defended the fines as consistent with House rules requiring attendance.
Lawmakers who fail to pay could face reductions to their office budgets under chamber rules.
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