Hawaii House Bill HCR54

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/5/24
• Refer: 3/8/24

Caption

Urging The United States Congress To Call A Convention For Proposing Amendments Pursuant To Article V Of The United States Constitution Limited To Proposing Amendments That Impose Fiscal Restraints On The Federal Government, Limit The Power And Jurisdiction Of The Federal Government, And Limit The Terms Of Office For Its Officials And Members Of Congress.

Impact

Should HCR54 advance and be enacted, it could significantly affect the balance of power between state and federal governments. The resolution aims to allow states to reassert their roles and authority, particularly in financial matters and governance. It reflects a growing sentiment among some state legislators that federal mandates often impose unfair financial burdens on states, especially when such mandates are unfunded. By advocating for fiscal restraints and limitations on federal power, HCR54 resonates with broader national conversations about the autonomy of state governments and their ability to respond to local needs effectively.

Summary

HCR54, a House Concurrent Resolution introduced in the Hawaii State Legislature, urges the United States Congress to call a convention for proposing amendments to the Constitution under Article V. The resolution specifically seeks amendments that would impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, limit its power and jurisdiction, and restrict the terms of office for federal officials and members of Congress. The underlying rationale is to promote greater accountability and responsiveness in federal governance by addressing perceived overreach and inefficiencies stemming from current federal policies and executive orders.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention surrounding HCR54 lies in the potential implications of calling a convention of states. Critics argue that while the intention behind the resolution is to limit federal overreach, a convention poses risks, including the possibility of unintended amendments that could alter critical aspects of the Constitution, including the Bill of Rights. Proponents, however, maintain that the resolution includes specific safeguards to restrict the convention's focus and prevent consideration of any amendments related to the Bill of Rights, thereby attempting to mitigate these risks.