Connecticut House Bill HJ00039

Connecticut 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/17
• Refer: 1/20/17

Caption

Resolution Applying To The United States Congress To Convene A Constitutional Convention.

Impact

If adopted, HJ00039 could pave the way for significant revisions to the federal Constitution. The successful convening of a constitutional convention could lead to amendments that might alter federal laws or governance structures, which would inevitably have profound implications for state and federal relationships. The resolution reflects a growing concern among some state legislators regarding federal overreach or inefficiencies in government, highlighting a push for states to reclaim some power in the legislative process at the national level.

Summary

House Joint Resolution No. 39 (HJ00039) is a legislative proposal aimed at applying to the United States Congress for a constitutional convention under Article V of the U.S. Constitution. The resolution seeks to initiate the process of proposing amendments to the Constitution by convening a convention. This effort is a significant political move as it represents a traditional method for amending the Constitution, which has been rarely employed in American history. The resolution underscores a desire amongst the state legislators to address perceived shortcomings in federal governance by proposing potential changes to the Constitution itself.

Contention

However, the proposal to call a constitutional convention is not without contention. Critics warn that a convention could be a risky endeavor due to the unpredictable nature of what amendments might be proposed and passed. There are concerns that a convention could lead to a 'runaway convention' where far-ranging changes to the Constitution could be made, potentially endangering essential rights and protections. Despite these apprehensions, proponents argue that it is necessary to reactivate the states' role in shaping the Constitution amid rising dissatisfaction with the federal government.