Legislative term limits. Providing that no person shall serve more than 15 terms in either the house of representatives or the senate.
Impact
Should this amendment pass, it would transform the legislative landscape in New Hampshire by enforcing term limits for the first time. Currently, there are no restrictions on how long an individual can hold office within the legislature, resulting in long-standing incumbencies. The imposition of term limits is expected to foster increased competition for seats, allowing new candidates to emerge and potentially bringing in diverse viewpoints into policy-making. Furthermore, the amendment may help reduce the potential for entrenched political power, thus invigorating voter engagement and participation.
Summary
CACR25, also known as the Constitutional Amendment Concurrent Resolution 25, proposes a significant change to the New Hampshire constitution by instituting term limits for members of the state's legislature. Specifically, the amendment states that no individual can serve more than 15 terms in either the House of Representatives or the Senate. This proposal aims to encourage political turnover and fresh perspectives in the state government, contributing to enhanced democratic representation and accountability among elected officials.
Sentiment
The general sentiment around CACR25 appears to be supportive among those advocating for political reform and greater accountability within the legislature. Proponents argue that term limits are a necessary step towards revitalizing democracy and preventing the monopolization of political power by long-serving incumbents. However, there are also substantial concerns expressed by opponents who fear that such a measure could lead to a loss of experienced legislators and institutional knowledge within the legislature. This contention highlights the ongoing debate between the benefits of fresh ideas versus the drawbacks of losing seasoned lawmakers.
Contention
One notable point of contention revolves around the implementation and implications of term limits. Critics argue that while the intention is to enhance democratic representation, it may inadvertently hinder the legislative process by frequently rotating out individuals who have developed expertise in governance and policymaking. Furthermore, there are concerns about how these term limits would affect continuity in legislation and policymaking efforts. The proposal is seen as a double-edged sword in the political arena, encouraging renewal while also risking instability in governance.
Relating to the drawing of district boundaries. Providing that no district boundaries shall be drawn in a way that favors or disfavors any political party or candidate.
Relating to changing the minimum age requirement for state senator from 30 to 25. Providing that persons at least 25 years of age shall be eligible to be elected to the state senate.
Relating to the retirement age for sheriffs. Providing that sheriffs attaining the age of 70 years during their elected term in office shall be permitted to complete their current term.
Relating to the use, sale, or cultivation of cannabis. Providing that the state shall make no law prohibiting the use, sale, or cultivation of cannabis for persons over 18 years of age.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.