Resolution Proposing An Amendment To The State Constitution Requiring An Affirmative Vote Of Two-thirds Of The General Assembly Membership For The Passage Of Special Session Legislation.
Impact
If enacted, this bill could significantly affect the legislative process within the state. The requirement for a two-thirds vote would mean that achieving consensus becomes mandatory for passing laws in special sessions. This may lead to reduced instances of quick legislation during special sessions and encourage enhanced debate and discussion among legislators. Additionally, it could alter the dynamics of how special sessions are utilized, potentially limiting their frequency or affecting the urgency of matters addressed in such settings.
Summary
SJ00013 is a proposed Senate Joint Resolution that aims to amend the state constitution by requiring a two-thirds affirmative vote from the General Assembly for the passage of any public or special act during a special session. The amendment intends to ensure broader consensus on legislation that may be enacted when the assembly is convened outside of the regular session, thereby enhancing the legislative process's rigor and thoroughness. The resolution highlights the intention to promote careful consideration of laws passed during these special occasions.
Contention
While proponents of SJ00013 argue that this amendment promotes responsible governance by necessitating a greater level of agreement among legislators, there are concerns about the potential for legislative gridlock. Critics might argue that requiring a higher threshold for passing laws could prevent necessary and timely responses to pressing issues. This could particularly impact the ability of the government to react swiftly in emergencies or situations requiring immediate legislative action, sparking debate about the balance between thorough legislative review and decisive governance.