Connecticut House Bill HJ00059

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/19
• Refer: 1/28/19

Caption

Resolution Proposing An Amendment To The State Constitution For The Filling Of Legislative Vacancies.

Impact

Under the proposed amendment, in the case of a special session that occurs between the adjournment and the next regular election, a majority of the delegates from the last state election will appoint an individual to serve as an acting legislator. This individual is specifically given the authority to vote on behalf of the vacant district, although their compensation would be limited to a minimal per diem rate. This approach aims to ensure that constituents continue to have representation during critical legislative periods.

Summary

HJ00059 proposes an amendment to the state constitution concerning the filling of legislative vacancies. The resolution stipulates that if a vacancy occurs that cannot be filled prior to the adjournment sine die of a regular session in an even-numbered year, that vacancy shall remain unfilled until the next regular election. This establishes a clear timeline for how vacancies are managed, allowing for a seamless process in dealing with legislative gaps.

Contention

The proposal may encounter points of contention regarding the authority and selection process of the acting legislator. Concerns may arise around whether the delegates should have the power to appoint someone without a more democratic process and how this might affect the political balance of the legislature. Furthermore, discussions around the per diem compensation may also generate debate, particularly in relation to fairness and efficacy in representing constituents' interests during the vacancy.