H.B. No. 298 introduces a new provision in the Texas Election Code regarding vacancies in the legislature due to excessive absences. Specifically, it establishes that if a member of the legislature fails to attend legislative floor sessions without a leave granted by a majority of their house, a vacancy will occur. This vacancy is triggered after the member's fourteenth absence during a Regular Session or after their third absence during a Special Session.

The bill aims to ensure accountability among legislators by clearly defining the consequences of excessive absenteeism. It specifies that the new rules apply only to absences occurring on or after the effective date of the Act, which will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote from both houses, or otherwise on the 91st day after the legislative session concludes.

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