Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to require that the Supreme Court be composed of not more than nine justices.
Impact
If enacted, HJR81 would solidify the current structure of the Supreme Court into the Constitution, preventing any future attempts to expand the number of justices. This could have significant implications for the balance of power within the federal government and the interpretation of constitutional law. By capping the number of justices, the amendment seeks to maintain the court's integrity and function as an independent judicial body, free from excessive political influence.
Summary
HJR81 is a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at establishing that the Supreme Court shall consist of no more than nine justices. This proposal was introduced in the House of Representatives and seeks to officially limit the number of justices on the Supreme Court, a topic that has seen considerable debate in recent years, especially in light of discussions around judicial activism and the politicization of the court. The resolution calls for Congress to have the authority to enforce this amendment through appropriate legislation.
Contention
The proposal has sparked controversy among lawmakers and legal scholars. Supporters argue that limiting the number of justices will preserve the court's independence and diminish the risks of 'court packing,' where a party in power seeks to increase the number of justices to influence rulings. However, opponents contend that this amendment is an unnecessary restriction that undermines the flexibility needed to adapt to future judicial needs. They express concerns that such a formal restriction could hinder the judicial system's ability to respond to evolving social and legal issues.
Related
Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to require that the Supreme Court of the United States be composed of nine justices.
Related
Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to require that the Supreme Court of the United States be composed of nine justices.
Related
A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to require that the Supreme Court of the United States be composed of not more than 9 justices.
Related
A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to require that the Supreme Court of the United States be composed of nine justices.
A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to require that the Supreme Court of the United States be composed of not more than 9 justices.
A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to require that the Supreme Court of the United States be composed of nine justices.
A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to require that the Supreme Court of the United States be composed of nine justices.