Connecticut House Bill HJ00023

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/23
• Refer: 1/18/23

Caption

Resolution Petitioning The United States Congress To Convene An Article V Convention.

Impact

If passed, HJ00023 would signal a significant shift in how states utilize their constitutional powers, fostering a potentially transformative process in American governance. It opens the door for multiple states to collaborate in proposing amendments, which could lead to significant changes in federal law and policy. Advocates believe such amendments are essential for reaffirming state rights and limiting federal power, especially in areas they view as encroaching on state sovereignty. The impact on existing state laws could be profound, especially depending on the amendments proposed through this convening process.

Summary

HJ00023 is a resolution proposing that the General Assembly petition the United States Congress to convene an Article V convention. This action is intended to allow states to propose amendments to the U.S. Constitution. Proponents of HJ00023 argue that such a convention would provide a necessary platform for states to collectively address perceived overreach by the federal government and to restore power to state legislatures on various issues. The resolution reflects a growing interest among some state legislators in mobilizing through constitutional means to amend the Constitution directly, impacting the balance of power between state and federal authorities.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding HJ00023, particularly regarding the potential risks associated with convening an Article V convention. Critics express concerns that such a convention could lead to unpredictable outcomes, such as the possibility of narrowed constitutional rights or changes that could affect civil liberties. There are fears that a convention called to address specific issues could spiral into a broader discussion that risks eroding long-established constitutional protections. Furthermore, the lack of clarity on how a convention would be controlled and what rules would govern it are central to the debate among legislators.