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Texas State Government. The Executive Branch p. 641 - 644. The Function of the Executive Branch. The executive branch carries out the laws passed by the legislature. It also conducts the business of the state.
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Texas State Government The Executive Branch p. 641 - 644
The Function of the Executive Branch • The executive branch carries out the laws passed by the legislature. • It also conducts the business of the state. • Executive power is shared by elected officials and those appointed by the governor.
The Governor of Texas • The governor is the head of the executive branch of Texas government. • Although elected to terms of four years, there is no limit to the number of terms a governor may serve. • To qualify for office, one must be at least 30 years old, a U.S. citizen, and a resident of Texas for at least five years.
Executive Powers of the Government • One executive power is to make appointments to boards and commissions. • The governor also has the power to remove certain officials, such as a judge engaged in a serious misconduct. • With the approval of the Senate, the governor can remove anyone he or she has appointed to a board or commission.
Legislative Powers of the Governor • The governor of Texas holds three important legislative powers: • Send messages to the legislature explaining the governor’s policy goals. • Veto power • A line-item veto gives the governor the power to reject particular items in appropriations bills. • To call special sessions of the legislature for emergency business.
Other Powers of the Governor • The governor appoints the members of the Board of Pardons and Paroles, the Board of Criminal Justice, the Texas Youth Commission, and other commissions that deal with offenders. • The governor can delay execution of prisoners or grant pardons. • The governor serves as the commander in chief of Texas.
Other Elected Members • 5 other members of the executive branch are chosen in statewide selections: • Lieutenant governor – President of the Senate • Attorney General –state’s lawyer • Comptroller of public accounts – chief tax collector • Commissioner of the General Land Office – manages the land and mineral rights owned by Texas • Commissioner of agriculture – enforces agricultural laws