Connecticut House Bill HJ00004

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/4/23
• Refer: 1/4/23

Caption

Resolution Proposing An Amendment To The State Constitution Concerning Term Limits For The Office Of Governor.

Impact

The proposed amendment could significantly alter the landscape of Connecticut's political arena. By instituting term limits, the bill aims to promote democratic principles by facilitating a regular turnover of leadership. Proponents argue that this would help to foster new ideas and perspectives in governance, as well as increase opportunities for emerging political leaders. Additionally, it may mitigate the risk of corruption and complacency that can occur when leaders remain in office for extended periods.

Summary

HJ00004 is a proposed constitutional amendment seeking to impose term limits on the office of the Governor of Connecticut. The resolution specifically aims to amend section two of Article Fourth of the state constitution to ensure that no Governor can serve more than two consecutive terms. This proposal reflects a growing trend among states to limit the time that individuals can hold significant political office, thereby encouraging fresh leadership and preventing the entrenchment of power in one individual.

Contention

While supporters champion HJ00004 as a means to enhance democracy and accountability, opponents may raise concerns about the effectiveness of term limits in achieving these goals. Critics often argue that term limits can lead to a loss of experienced leadership and institutional knowledge, as well as incentivizing politicians to prioritize short-term goals to make their mark before leaving office. These debates are likely to play a crucial role in the discussions and potential passage of the bill, as various stakeholders weigh the potential benefits against the implications of such changes to governance.