Unique Texas Law
I live just north of Austin, Texas, our state’s capital. I have worked for the State of Texas my entire career, 32 years and counting.
Texas has over 31 million residents as of 2024, and it is the second largest state covering more than 260k square miles.
I came across a unique state law that has been in place since Texas was annexed in 1845. It is the Right to Divide Itself.
This means Texas can be split into 5 states without an amendment to the constitution. However, Congress and the State Legislature need to approve any division.
What? Why have I never heard of this? Did I study this in school?
Learning about this was crazy but the fact it is still in effect today, in theory, is crazier.
I learned this was part of an agreement about the expansion of slavery into the new state but became a moot point after the Civil War.
I work for the state and can’t imagine this split. Think about this:
- 5 governors
- 10 US senators
- 5 sets of laws
- 5 flags
- 5 state birds
Wow! What a mess. And not practical at all, thank goodness.
Hope you enjoyed this Texas fun fact!
Hi, Sandra,
Wow! That is a fun, weird fact. And, you’re right, it sounds like it could really complicate things.
This is interesting. I’ll use it as a conversation starter at my next gathering. Thanks for the fun fact!