Texas Challenges Constitutionality of Omnibus Spending Bill Over Proxy Voting Concerns
• Texas is challenging the constitutionality of the $1.7 trillion omnibus spending bill passed by the House, arguing it lacked a quorum as only 201 members were physically present.
• Texas argues the Constitution's quorum clause requires physical presence of a majority to conduct business, not proxy voting.
• If Texas wins, it would invalidate amendments expanding Title VII discrimination protections and $20 million to assist illegal immigrants.
• Practical impact would be limited since the funds are already spent, but it would set a precedent that proxy voting violates the quorum clause.
• Ruling for Texas would be a rebuke of Congress and Biden for violating constitutional duties; ruling against would show the judiciary won't check the other branches.