H.B. No. 257 introduces a new provision to the Texas Government Code regarding the vacancy of a legislative office due to excessive absence. Specifically, it establishes that a member of the legislature will vacate their office if they are absent from all proceedings of their respective house for seven consecutive days without a granted leave of absence. This new section, designated as Section 301.074, aims to ensure accountability among legislators by addressing prolonged absences.

The bill stipulates that the new rule regarding absences will only apply to instances occurring on or after the effective date of the Act. Additionally, it outlines the conditions for the Act's immediate effect, requiring a two-thirds vote from all elected members of both houses, or it will take effect 91 days after the end of the legislative session if that threshold is not met.

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