H.R. No. 128 is a resolution adopted by the House of Representatives of the 89th Legislature aimed at establishing penalties for members who are absent without leave, particularly when such absences are intended to obstruct the legislative process. The resolution amends Rule 5, Section 3 of the House's permanent rules to clarify that no member can excuse their own absence, and that leaves of absence must be granted by a majority vote. It outlines various penalties for members who are absent without leave, including fines, payment of costs incurred by the sergeant-at-arms, reprimands, censure, recalculation of seniority, loss of chair or vice-chair appointments, and potential expulsion.

The resolution also specifies the financial implications of unexcused absences, including fines equivalent to three times the per diem set by the Texas Ethics Commission for each day of absence, as well as the forfeiture of a portion of the member's monthly operating budget. Additionally, it establishes a process for notifying members of fines and costs, requiring payment within a specified timeframe, and outlines the procedure for expulsion, which includes an investigation by the Committee on House Administration. Overall, the resolution seeks to ensure accountability among members while protecting their constitutional rights.