Connecticut House Bill HJ00012

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/19
• Refer: 1/11/19

Caption

Resolution Proposing A State Constitutional Amendment Concerning Term Limits For Certain Legislators.

Impact

If adopted, this constitutional amendment would significantly alter the legislative landscape in the state by enforcing strict term limits for the specified positions. Proponents of the bill argue that term limits would promote political accountability, reduce the risk of corruption, and increase public trust in government. They contend that this change would ultimately lead to a more dynamic and responsive legislative body, as new representatives bring different ideas and solutions to the table. Additionally, supporters believe that term limits will encourage more individuals to run for office, thereby enhancing civic engagement.

Summary

House Joint Resolution No. 12 (HJ00012) proposes an amendment to the state constitution that would impose term limits on certain legislators. Specifically, the resolution seeks to limit state senators and representatives to a maximum of five terms in office. An exception is made for legislators who are elected to leadership positions within the General Assembly, allowing them to serve additional terms beyond this limit. The intent of this bill is to enhance democratic processes by introducing fresh perspectives and avoiding prolonged tenures that may lead to entrenchment in political power.

Contention

Opponents of HJ00012 express concerns about the potential negative ramifications of instituting term limits. Critics argue that removing experienced legislators may lead to a loss of valuable knowledge and expertise, ultimately hindering the legislative process. They contend that institutional knowledge is crucial for effective governance and that term limits may create a more volatile political climate, with frequent turnover resulting in inconsistent policy direction. Furthermore, some detractors question the necessity of such limits, suggesting that voters should have the ultimate authority to decide whether to re-elect their representatives based on their performance rather than an imposed term limit.

Notable_points

The proposal's provisions regarding leadership positions have sparked debate about the potential for loopholes that may enable seasoned politicians to extend their tenure in the legislature. This raises questions about the integrity of the term limit system. Moreover, discussions surrounding HJ00012 have highlighted the broader issues of political reform and legislative ethics, as advocates for transparency urge comprehensive measures beyond just term limits to address accountability in government actions.