Maryland 2024 Regular Session

Maryland Senate Bill SB1073

Introduced
2/2/24  

Caption

Amendments Convention Called Under Article V of the U.S. Constitution - Delegation to the Convention

Impact

The bill stipulates that the delegation consists of seven commissioners, each of whom must meet specific eligibility criteria, including residency and citizenship requirements. The regulations outlined in this bill ensure that those appointed will primarily act in a manner consistent with the state's interests and objectives concerning constitutional amendments. By establishing a set of rules regarding the conduct of commissioners, the state aims to maintain a coherent and unified representation at the convention without prioritizing individual agendas over collective interests.

Summary

Senate Bill 1073 relates to the calling of an amendments convention under Article V of the U.S. Constitution, aiming to create a formal structure within Maryland’s state government for appointing a delegation to represent the state at such a convention. This bill specifies the formation of a delegation and an advisory committee tasked with overseeing the process and operations of the convention. Key participants termed 'commissioners' will be appointed by the General Assembly, with defined qualifications, duties, and mechanisms for removal if necessary.

Contention

Discussion surrounding the bill may center on the level of control the state wishes to exercise regarding potential constitutional amendments and the implications of changing the U.S. Constitution through this legislative process. Critics may express concern over the possibility of constitutional amendments that could infringe upon individual rights or the overarching framework of federal governance. Moreover, there could be debates about the competence and accountability of the appointed commissioners, considering that their decisions at the convention could significantly influence legal standards across the country.

Companion Bills

MD HB1202

Crossfiled Amendments Convention Called Under Article V of the U.S. Constitution - Delegation to the Convention

Previously Filed As

MD HJ2

United States Constitution – Amendments Convention – Limitations on Federal Power

MD SJ1

United States Constitution – Amendments Convention – Limitations on Federal Power

MD HB730

Constitutional Amendment - Alteration of Rate of Taxation - Legislation by General Assembly Required

MD HB364

Public Safety - Handgun Permit Requirement - Repeal (Maryland's Constitutional Carry Act of 2023)

MD HB167

Firearms - Right to Purchase, Own, Possess, and Carry - Medical Cannabis (Maryland Constitutional Carry Act)

MD HB981

Limited Liability Companies - Articles of Organization - Required Information

MD SB700

Public Safety – Use of Department of State Police Articles for Commercial Purposes – Prohibitions

MD HB548

Financial Regulation - Maryland Community Investment Venture Fund - Establishment (Access to Banking Act)

MD HB152

Department of Agriculture - Urban Agriculture Grant Programs - Alterations

MD SB662

Higher Education - Appointment of Secretary and Student Financial Assistance - Accommodations at Public Institutions for Religious Beliefs

Similar Bills

MS HC48

Article V Convention; provide for selection and authority of commissioners.

MS HC36

Article V Convention; provide for selection and authority of commissioners.

NJ S3445

Establishes process for selection, instruction, and oversight of commissioners to Article V convention for proposing amendments to United States Constitution; establishes criminal penalties for certain violations.

NJ A4907

Establishes process for selection, instruction, and oversight of commissioners to Article V convention for proposing amendments to United States Constitution; establishes criminal penalties for certain violations.

SC H3558

Commissioners to Article V Convention

MD HB1202

Amendments Convention Called Under Article V of the U.S. Constitution - Delegation to the Convention

KY HB821

AN ACT relating to the selection and oversight of Article V convention commissioners.

KY HB634

AN ACT relating to the selection and oversight of Article V convention commissioners.