Connecticut House Bill HJ00045

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/19
• Refer: 1/24/19

Caption

Resolution Petitioning Congress To Convene An Article V Convention To Overturn The United States Supreme Court's Decision In Citizens United V. Federal Election Commission.

Impact

If successful, HJ00045 could lead to significant changes in how political campaigns are financed in the United States. Advocates for the resolution believe that a constitutional amendment is essential to restore balance in the democratic process by addressing the financial power of corporations over elections. They argue that the Supreme Court's ruling has diluted the principle of one person, one vote, and has amplified the voices of wealthy entities at the expense of ordinary citizens. The resolution aims to urge Congress to take action on this pressing issue.

Summary

HJ00045 is a resolution that seeks to petition Congress to convene an Article V convention for the specific purpose of proposing an amendment to the United States Constitution. The resolution is rooted in the desire to overturn the Supreme Court's decision in the landmark case of Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission. This 2010 decision is well-known for its impact on campaign finance, allowing for increased spending by corporations and unions in political campaigns, which many argue has led to excessive influence of money in politics.

Contention

Despite its intent, HJ00045 may face considerable opposition. Critics of the resolution often express concern about the unintended consequences of convening a constitutional convention. They worry that such a gathering could lead to broader amendments that might threaten established rights and liberties. Additionally, there are concerns about the logistics and control of an Article V convention, as it is not entirely clear how delegates would be chosen or how the process would be managed. As such, the resolution highlights a deep divide on the issue of campaign finance and the best means to address perceived injustices in the political system.