Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

Connecticut House Bill HJ00024

Introduced
1/18/19  
Refer
1/18/19  

Caption

Resolution Proposing A State Constitutional Amendment Concerning Twelve-year Term Limits For Legislators And Constitutional Officers.

Impact

The amendment, if adopted, could fundamentally alter the landscape of state politics by ensuring regular turnover among elected officials. With the implementation of these term limits, it is anticipated that new candidates would regularly emerge, fostering increased competition and opportunities for fresh ideas in governance. Such changes could enhance democratic engagement among citizens who might feel more inclined to participate in elections, knowing that opportunities for new leadership would be available regularly.

Summary

HJ00024 is a proposed state constitutional amendment that seeks to establish twelve-year term limits for legislators and constitutional officers in the state. Specifically, the bill proposes that no senator or representative may serve more than six terms in legislative office, and no constitutional officer may serve more than three terms. This amendment aims to promote political accountability and reduce the risks associated with long-term incumbency, which supporters argue can lead to stagnation within the political system and decreased responsiveness to constituents.

Conclusion

Overall, HJ00024 represents a significant shift in how the state approaches the terms of its elected officials. While designed to enhance accountability and democratic representation, the amendment raises important questions regarding the balance between fresh perspectives in governance and the value of experienced leadership.

Contention

However, the proposal is not without controversy. Opponents of the term limits amendment argue that such restrictions could inadvertently strip experienced legislators of their ability to serve their constituents effectively. They contend that institutional knowledge and expertise developed over years of service are vital for navigating complex legislative issues. Additionally, critics suggest that while term limits may open up seats for new candidates, they might also lead to a less stable legislative environment where 'political outsiders' lack the necessary experience to govern effectively.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT SJ00004

Resolution Proposing A State Constitutional Amendment Concerning Discrimination On The Basis Of Sex Under The Equal Protection Clause.

CT SJ00193

Resolution Proposing An Amendment To The State Constitution Regarding Environmental Rights.

CT HJ00216

Resolution Proposing A State Constitutional Amendment To Allow Individuals Who Have Attained The Age Of Sixteen To Apply For Admission As Electors And To Be So Admitted Upon Attaining The Age Of Eighteen.

CT HJ00171

Resolution Proposing An Amendment To The State Constitution To Revise Requirements Relating To The Offering Of Bail Or Pretrial Release To Persons Accused Of A Crime.

CT HJ00217

Resolution Ratifying The Proposed Amendment To The Constitution Of The United States Permitting Congress To Regulate Child Labor.

CT HJ00230

Resolution Memorializing Congress To Rescind Previous Applications Of The General Assembly Calling For An Article V Convention To Propose Amendments To The Constitution Of The United States.

CT SB00247

An Act Concerning The Statute Of Limitations For Crimes Committed Against The Elderly.

CT SB00389

An Act Concerning The State Contracting Standards Board And State Procurement.

CT HB05002

An Act Concerning Early Childhood Care And Education.

CT SB00406

An Act Concerning Long-term Care Insurance.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.