• Similar to the president of the United States in function, the governor of Texas has a long list of duties and responsibilities to his constituents. To be eligible to hold the office, an individual must have been a resident of the state of Texas for at least five years prior to running and must be at least 30 years of age.
  
  

New Legislation

• The governor is charged with reporting to the Legislature at the beginning of every regular session on the overall condition of the state. This report proves vital in the planning and legislative process in that it serves to provide direction for the state government to more effectively serve the people. Additionally, the governor holds the power of the veto and has the authority to enforce the veto on any bill passed which conflicts with other federal or state laws. Lastly, the governor has the authority to preside over special sessions of the Legislature. This is done very rarely so as to ensure the separation of the two branches.
  
  

Budgeting

• In addition to presenting an annual report to Legislature on the overall condition of the state, the governor also prepares a financial report and submits a proposed two-year budget to the Legislature during each regular session. This allows for the state government to adapt to changing economic conditions which may have been unforeseen.
  
  

Pardons and Paroles

• The governor has the final authority on all pardons and paroles for state offenses within Texas. This means that she has the final say on stays of execution as well as pardoning previously convicted criminals. This power does not apply to federal convictions or convictions from other states.
  
  

Appointments

• A number of positions within the state government are held by appointees. These may include advisers, task force members and administrators. The governor is responsible for appointing state citizens to fill each of these positions. In addition, in the event that an elected official leaves office suddenly and unexpectedly, the governor has the authority to fill that position until another election can be held.
  
  

Commander in Chief

• The governor serves as the commander in chief of the state armed forces. This includes all National Guard units as well as any voluntary state defense forces. The governor has the ability to utilize these forces for any state of emergency which may occur during his tenure. This can include natural disasters, acts of war or terrorism, and situations in which local authorities are unable to properly respond.