The resolution would effectively nullify any standing applications Arizona has made, thereby attempting to limit the risk of unforeseen issues being debated at a constitutional convention. Given that Article V of the U.S. Constitution allows states to call for such a convention, the rescission aims to prevent any ambiguities that could arise from previous petitions filed by the Arizona Legislature. This measure could also reinforce the principle of state sovereignty, responding to the fears that a convention could spiral into debates beyond the specific purposes originally intended.
Summary
SCR1039 is a concurrent resolution introduced in the Arizona Senate that seeks to rescind all previous applications made by the state for a Constitutional convention aimed at proposing amendments to the U.S. Constitution. The bill reflects growing concerns among lawmakers regarding the implications of past petitions that could potentially lead to an uncontrolled constitutional convention, which may address issues not originally intended by the legislators who made those applications. This step is considered a precautionary measure to safeguard against the misuse of these petitions and ensure that Arizona’s legislative history is accurately represented in federal discussions.
Contention
While proponents of SCR1039 argue that it is necessary to maintain control over state policy and prevent any unintended consequences of a constitutional convention, opponents might raise concerns that it undermines the state’s ability to engage with the broader national discussion on constitutional amendments. The balance of safeguarding local interests against the potentiality of national constitutional reforms is a significant point of contention among legislators. The varying opinions highlight a tension between those who wish to maintain strict adherence to previous legislative actions and those who advocate for a more active role in shaping constitutional discourse.
Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.