An Act Proposing An Amendment To Article Ii Of The Delaware Constitution Relating To The General Assembly.
Impact
Should HB 269 pass, it would mark a significant change in Delaware's legislative procedure, instituting a specific timeframe for legislative actions that may improve operational efficiency within the General Assembly. The introduction of a deadline is expected to encourage lawmakers to prioritize and expedite their legislative agenda. However, it also raises questions about the potential for rushed decision-making, particularly for bills that may require extensive deliberation. Notably, the bill excludes critical financial bills from this deadline, ensuring that the state budget remains flexible and focused on fiscal responsibilities.
Summary
House Bill 269 proposes an amendment to Article II of the Delaware Constitution to establish a 'Crossover Day' deadline for the General Assembly. This legislative deadline stipulates that all bills, with specific exceptions such as the annual budget and certain resolutions, must be presented to the opposing house by June 20 each year. The intent is to streamline the legislative process and facilitate the timely consideration of bills, reflecting a practice already in place in 26 other states. By instituting Crossover Day, the bill aims to enhance the efficiency of the legislative workflow in Delaware.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HB 269 appears generally supportive among legislative sponsors who frame the amendment as a necessary modernization of the legislative process. Advocates argue that a Crossover Day would enhance productivity within the General Assembly and align Delaware with other states successfully using similar deadlines. Conversely, some concerns have been raised about the implications of implementing a strict deadline on the quality and thoroughness of legislative reviews, particularly for complex or contentious measures that may arise.
Contention
Some legislators may express apprehensions about shifting to a rigid legislative schedule, fearing that it could undermine careful consideration of significant bills or lead to bottlenecks as the Crossover Day approaches. The debate may involve discussions about balancing the need for efficient governance with the need for thorough legislative examination, particularly for bills with widespread implications. Additionally, the bill's focus on establishing clear legislative deadlines could provoke discussions regarding the long-standing practices of the General Assembly and introduce a fresh urgency to its operations.
An Act Proposing An Amendment To Article Viii, § 6 Of The Delaware Constitution Relating To Limiting The Annual Growth Of Expenditures In The State Operating Budget.
An Act Proposing An Amendment To Article Viii Of The Constitution Of The State Of Delaware Relating To The Power Of The State To Impose Taxes Upon The People Of The State Of Delaware.
An Act Concurring In A Proposed Amendment To § 3, Article Ii Of The Delaware Constitution Relating To The Residency Of The Members Of The General Assembly.