LA
Louisiana House Bill HCR87

Louisiana 2011 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HCR87

Introduced
5/12/11  
Refer
5/16/11  
Report Pass
5/24/11  
Engrossed
6/8/11  
Refer
6/9/11  
Report Pass
6/19/11  

Caption

Applies for a convention to propose an amendment to the U.S. constitution regarding the federal debt

Impact

If adopted, this resolution could lead to significant changes in how federal financial decisions are made, potentially requiring Congress to seek consent from the majority of state legislatures for any debt increases. This may have ripple effects on federal budgeting and financial planning, pressing lawmakers to carefully weigh the implications of proposed legislation that impacts national debt. The bill could be viewed as a move towards enhancing state rights and powers within the broader framework of federalism by reinstating the necessity of state legislature involvement in crucial federal fiscal matters.

Summary

HCR87, a House Concurrent Resolution introduced by Representative Ellington, seeks to apply for a convention to propose an amendment to the United States Constitution that requires a majority approval from state legislatures for any increase in federal debt. This proposal is anchored in Article V of the Constitution, which allows states to call for a convention for proposing amendments. The resolution asserts the need for greater control over federal fiscal policy by the states, reflecting a sentiment among certain lawmakers that the federal government has too much unilateral power regarding debt and spending decisions.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HCR87 indicates a push from some legislators towards a more stringent control over federal spending, indicating a broader ideological clash regarding the appropriate balance of power between state and federal governments. Proponents may view this as a necessary check on federal power, while opponents might express concerns that such measures could hinder effective governance and fiscal responsiveness at the national level. The debate underscores the tension between ensuring responsible fiscal management and maintaining operational flexibility for federal authorities.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the feasibility and implications of convening an amendments convention, as well as the potential consequences of requiring state approval for federal debt increases. Critics may argue that this could complicate the decision-making process during fiscal emergencies, undermining timely responses to economic crises. Furthermore, there may be concerns about the risk of opening the Constitution to broader amendments beyond the original intent, potentially leading to unintended consequences.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA HCR65

Applies to congress to call a convention pursuant to Article V of the U.S. Constitution to propose an amendment regarding a requirement to reduce the federal debt through annual appropriations

LA HCR70

Applies to congress under U.S. Const. Art. V to call a convention of the states to propose a U.S. constitutional amendment to require a balanced budget

LA HCR66

Applies to congress to call a convention pursuant to Article V of the U.S. Constitution to propose an amendment regarding an overall spending limitation on the federal budget (EG SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

LA HCR63

Applies to congress to call a convention pursuant to Article V of the U.S. Constitution to propose an amendment regarding term limits for members of congress (EG SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

LA HCR57

Applies to congress to call a convention pursuant to Article V of the U.S. Constitution to propose an amendment regarding a presidential line item veto for appropriation bills

LA HCR28

Applies to the U.S. Congress to call a convention for the purpose of proposing amendments to the U.S. Constitution to address concerns raised by the 2010 decision of the U.S. Supreme Court in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission

LA HCR13

Applies to the U.S. Congress to call a convention for the purpose of proposing amendments to the U.S. Constitution to address concerns raised by the 2010 decision of the Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission

LA AJR27

Convention of states for proposing an amendment to the United States Constitution: federal balanced budget.

LA HCR59

Applies to congress to call a convention pursuant to Article V of the U.S. Constitution to propose an amendment regarding a requirement that bills be confined to a single object and a prohibition on amendments that are not germane to the bill as introduced (EG GF EX See Note)

LA HCR68

Applies to congress to call a convention pursuant to Article V of the U.S. Constitution to propose a balanced budget amendment (RE SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.