Lieutenant Governor of Texas: Responsibilities and Powers
Overview
The Lieutenant Governor of Texas is the second-highest executive officer in the state, after the Governor. The position is responsible for presiding over the Texas Senate and has a significant role in the legislative process.
Responsibilities
Legislative Duties
- Presiding over the Texas Senate
- Breaking ties in the Senate
- Appointing committees and assigning legislation
Executive Duties
- Serving as Acting Governor in the absence of the Governor
- Succeeding to the governorship in the event of the Governor's death, resignation, or removal from office
- Appointing members to various state boards and commissions
Other Duties
- Serving as President of the Texas Senate Research Center
- Chairing the Legislative Budget Board
- Representing Texas at official functions and events
Powers
- Power to appoint committees and control the flow of legislation
- Authority to break ties in the Senate
- Limited veto power over legislation passed by the Senate
- Power to call special legislative sessions
Additional Information
The Lieutenant Governor of Texas is elected to a four-year term and can serve an unlimited number of terms.
The current Lieutenant Governor of Texas is Dan Patrick, who was elected in 2015.
Sources
- Legislative Budget Board of the State of Texas
- Texas State Library and Archives Commission
- Texas Tribune
