Connecticut House Bill HJ00002

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/4/23
• Refer: 1/4/23

Caption

Resolution Proposing An Amendment To The State Constitution To Provide For Direct Referenda.

Impact

If enacted, the amendment would fundamentally alter the relationship between the electorate and the General Assembly. It would give citizens the authority to challenge laws directly at the ballot box, thereby increasing their influence over state governance. This change is expected to promote a more participative democracy, as it allows voters to voice their opinions on specific legislative issues that concern them, ensuring policies reflect the will of the populace.

Summary

HJ00002 is a proposed amendment to the state constitution that seeks to empower electors with the ability to approve or reject any law or portion of a law through a direct referendum. This resolution underscores a commitment to increasing democratic engagement by allowing voters to take a more active role in the legislative process. By granting this power directly to the electorate, supporters argue that it can enhance accountability and responsiveness in governance, as citizens would have the final say on legislative matters.

Contention

The proposal, however, has generated considerable debate. Proponents laud it as a critical step towards increasing voter engagement and empowering citizens to hold lawmakers accountable. Yet, critics warn that direct referenda could lead to instability in governance and policy-making, as laws could be frequently challenged and overturned by voter sentiment. Concerns also include the potential for well-funded interests to sway public opinion, effectively undermining the legislative expertise of elected representatives. This tension between direct democracy and representative governance lies at the heart of discussions surrounding the amendment.