MA
Massachusetts Senate Bill S2319

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

Massachusetts Senate Bill S2319

Introduced
2/16/23  
Refer
2/16/23  
Report Pass
3/14/24  

Caption

Resolutions for a United States Constitutional Amendment and a limited amendment proposing convention

Impact

If enacted, S2319 would direct Congress to propose an amendment affirming that only natural persons possess Constitutional rights. This significant shift could fundamentally alter how corporations interact with federal and state laws, particularly regarding political contributions. The resolution emphasizes the need for state control over election integrity measures and seeks to engage in a broader dialogue with other states about similar concerns. It signifies an important step towards strengthening the legislative power of states in the face of federal judicial decisions that have a profound impact on elections nationwide.

Summary

S2319 is a resolution introduced in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts with the intent of calling for a United States Constitutional Amendment to address issues arising from the Supreme Court's ruling in Citizens United v. FEC. This ruling removed previously imposed restrictions on political spending and has led to significant concerns about the influence of large corporations and financial interests in elections. Through this bill, Massachusetts aims to ensure that political contributions are limited and that the rights protected under the Constitution are reserved for natural persons only, thereby preventing corporations from exerting undue influence in the political process.

Contention

The key points of contention surrounding S2319 revolve around its implications for corporate influence in politics and the foundational principles of democracy. Supporters argue that the amendment is essential to restoring fair elections and preventing the manipulation of the political landscape by powerful economic entities. Conversely, critics may express concerns about the potential restrictions on free speech associated with limiting funding in political campaigns. Furthermore, the resolution seeks to initiate a convention limited to discussing these amendments, which some may view as a dangerous precedent that could lead to broader modifications of the Constitution.

Latest S2319 Activity

Companion Bills

MA H3541

Similar To Resolutions calling on Article V of the United States Constitution for the convening of a convention of the states

Previously Filed As

MA S2463

Resolutions for a United States Constitutional Amendment and a limited amendment proposing convention

MA H3502

Resolutions for a United States constitutional amendment and a limited amendment proposing convention

MA H3842

Resolutions for a United States constitutional amendment and a limited amendment proposing convention

MA HCR8

Applying to congress for a limited national convention for the exclusive purpose of proposing an amendment to the United States Constitution relative to elections.

MA HJR120

Applying to Congress for a limited national convention for the exclusive purpose of proposing an amendment to the United States Constitution to restore balance and integrity to our elections.

MA HJ2

United States Constitution – Amendments Convention – Limitations on Federal Power

MA HJR94

Urging Congress to call a convention to propose amendments to the United States Constitution to address concerns raised by the decision of the United States Supreme Court in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission and related cases and events.

MA SJ1

United States Constitution – Amendments Convention – Limitations on Federal Power

MA SR77

A Concurrent Resolution petitioning the Congress of the United States to call a Convention for proposing amendments pursuant to Article V of the Constitution of the United States 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 for members of Congress.

MA 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

Similar Bills

MA S2463

Resolutions for a United States Constitutional Amendment and a limited amendment proposing convention

MA H3502

Resolutions for a United States constitutional amendment and a limited amendment proposing convention

MA H3842

Resolutions for a United States constitutional amendment and a limited amendment proposing convention

MA S2472

Resolutions proclaiming that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts supports admitting Washington, D.C. into the Union as a state of the United States of America

MA H3844

Resolutions proclaiming that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts supports admitting Washington, D.C. into the Union as a state of the United States of America

MA H3843

Resolutions for an application to Congress for an amendment overturning Citizens United

MA H3768

Resolutions for an application to Congress for an amendment overturning Citizens United

MA H1986

Resolutions providing for the ratification of the child labor amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America