Alabama House Bill HJR52

Alabama 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/9/22
• Refer: 2/9/22
• Engrossed: 2/16/22
• Refer: 2/16/22
• Enrolled: 2/22/22
• Chaptered: 2/22/22
• Passed: 2/22/22

Caption

Constitution of Alabama of 2022 adopted, ratification election at the 2022 general election

Impact

If HJR52 is ratified, it would replace the existing Constitution of Alabama of 1901 with the proposed 2022 version, thus significantly impacting state laws and governance procedures. This new constitution would serve as the supreme law of Alabama, incorporating the reforms suggested while adhering to the stipulations laid out in Amendment 951. The changes aim to not only clarify the legal text but also enhance the state's commitment to equality by removing language considered racist, thereby making the constitution more inclusive and reflective of contemporary societal values.

Summary

HJR52 is a House Joint Resolution aimed at adopting a proposed new Constitution for Alabama, referred to as the Constitution of Alabama of 2022. This resolution is grounded in Amendment 951 to the Alabama Constitution of 1901, which mandates the recompilation of the state constitution. The objective of HJR52 is to create a more coherent and modern governing document by eliminating outdated and duplicative provisions, removing racist language, and reorganizing the constitution into clear articles and sections. Furthermore, it consolidates local amendments by county to ensure greater clarity and accessibility.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HJR52 appears largely positive among supporters, who view it as a vital step toward modernizing Alabama's legal framework and ensuring that the state's constitution is free from discriminatory language. Many proponents believe that by adopting the proposed revisions, Alabama can position itself more favorably in terms of governance and social justice. However, potential opposition may arise from individuals reluctant to alter historic documents and those who might perceive the changes as an unnecessary upheaval of traditional laws, introducing an element of contention in public discourse.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HJR52 include concerns over the interpretation of the proposed changes and the implications for local governance due to the reorganization of local amendments. Some may argue that consolidating provisions could limit local flexibility and control, especially in addressing unique local issues. Additionally, the debate about whether the removal of certain language is sufficient or necessary could lead to varied interpretations of the proposed constitution's intent, fostering discussions about how best to balance tradition with progressive reform.