Connecticut 2021 Regular Session

Connecticut House Bill HJ00039

Introduced
1/25/21  
Introduced
1/25/21  
Refer
1/25/21  

Caption

Resolution Proposing A State Constitutional Amendment To Enact Term Limits For State Elected Officials.

Impact

The adoption of HJ00039 could significantly influence the landscape of state governance by promoting governmental accountability and transparency. Proponents believe that term limits may lead to a reduction in the entrenchment of political power and improve opportunities for fresh leadership. This could help to invigorate political dialogue and voter engagement as new candidates bring differing perspectives and ideas to the table. By limiting the time any individual can serve, the bill aims to prevent the development of career politicians who may prioritize their own interests over public service.

Summary

HJ00039 is a resolution proposing a state constitutional amendment aimed at enacting term limits for state elected officials in Connecticut. Specifically, the bill seeks to amend section 10 of article third of the state constitution to restrict senators and representatives to a maximum of six terms in office. Additionally, it proposes an amendment to section 2 of article fourth, which would limit constitutional officers to three terms. This initiative is intended to enhance rotation in office among elected officials, thereby fostering a more dynamic political environment.

Contention

Opponents of the bill raise concerns that term limits may limit the electorate's freedom to choose their representatives. They argue that such restrictions could lead to a loss of experienced legislators who have built valuable expertise and relationships over time. Critics also suggest that instead of improving political dynamics, term limits could result in a shorter learning curve for new officials and a reliance on unelected staff and lobbyists who maintain continuity within the government. This amendment, if passed, has the potential to ignite further debate on the balance between democratic choice and political reform.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CT SJ00193

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

CT SJ00004

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

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 SB00261

An Act Concerning Statements Of Financial Interests Under The State Code Of Ethics For Public Officials.

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 SB00260

An Act Concerning Conflicts Of Interest Due To An Employer Other Than The State Under The State Code Of Ethics For Public Officials.

CT SR00012

Resolution Proposing Approval Of An Agreement Between The State Of Connecticut And The State Employees Bargaining Agent Coalition (sebac).

CT HR00015

Resolution Proposing Approval Of An Agreement Between The State Of Connecticut And The State Employees Bargaining Agent Coalition (sebac).

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.