Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Department of Public Safety to arrest Democratic members of the Texas House who have left the state. The move comes after a number of House Democrats fled Texas, preventing a quorum and stalling legislative efforts.

“Texas House Democrats abandoned their duty to Texans,” said Governor Abbott. “By fleeing the state, Texas House Democrats are holding hostage critical legislation to aid flood victims and advance property tax relief. There are consequences for dereliction of duty.

"Speaker Dustin Burrows just issued a call of the Texas House and issued warrants to compel members to return to the chamber. To ensure compliance, I ordered the Texas Department of Public Safety to locate, arrest, and return to the House chamber any member who has abandoned their duty to Texans. This order will remain in effect until all missing Democrat House members are accounted for and brought to the Texas Capitol.”

The absence of Democratic lawmakers has delayed action on legislation intended for flood relief and property tax measures. Speaker Dustin Burrows has authorized warrants in an effort to restore enough members for official business.