The Lieutenant Governor of Texas: Duties and Responsibilities

Introduction

The Lieutenant Governor of Texas is the second-highest elected official in the state, after the Governor. The position was created in 1845, when Texas was annexed by the United States. The Lieutenant Governor presides over the Texas Senate, and is responsible for a variety of other duties, as outlined in the Texas Constitution.

Duties of the Lieutenant Governor

The Lieutenant Governor's duties include:

• Presiding over the Texas Senate
• Casting the deciding vote in the Senate in the event of a tie
• Appointing members to various state boards and commissions
• Serving as acting Governor in the event of the Governor's absence or disability
• Succeeding the Governor in the event of the Governor's death, resignation, or removal from office

Presiding Over the Texas Senate

As President of the Senate, the Lieutenant Governor is responsible for maintaining order and decorum in the chamber. The Lieutenant Governor also decides which bills will be debated and voted on, and has the power to refer bills to committees for further study.

Casting the Deciding Vote in the Senate

In the event of a tie vote in the Senate, the Lieutenant Governor has the power to cast the deciding vote. This power gives the Lieutenant Governor a great deal of influence over the legislative process.

Appointing Members to State Boards and Commissions

The Lieutenant Governor has the authority to appoint members to various state boards and commissions. These appointments give the Lieutenant Governor a significant role in shaping the policies of these bodies.

Serving as Acting Governor

In the event of the Governor's absence or disability, the Lieutenant Governor becomes acting Governor. As acting Governor, the Lieutenant Governor has all the powers and duties of the Governor.

Succeeding the Governor

In the event of the Governor's death, resignation, or removal from office, the Lieutenant Governor succeeds to the governorship. The Lieutenant Governor serves as Governor for the remainder of the Governor's term.

Conclusion

The Lieutenant Governor of Texas is a powerful and influential office. The Lieutenant Governor has a variety of duties and responsibilities, including presiding over the Texas Senate, casting the deciding vote in the Senate, appointing members to state boards and commissions, serving as acting Governor, and succeeding the Governor. The Lieutenant Governor plays a key role in the legislative process and in the overall governance of Texas.