RI
Rhode Island House Bill H8324

Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H8324

Introduced
5/30/24  
Refer
5/30/24  
Report Pass
6/6/24  
Engrossed
6/10/24  
Enrolled
6/14/24  

Caption

JOINT RESOLUTION PROVIDING FOR A BI-PARTISAN PREPARATORY COMMISSION TO ASSEMBLE INFORMATION ON CONSTITUTIONAL QUESTIONS IN PREPARATION FOR A VOTE BY THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS ON THE HOLDING OF A CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION IN ACCORDANCE WITH ARTICLE XIV SECTION 2 OF THE RHODE ISLAND CONSTITUTION (This resolution would provide for a twelve (12) member bi-partisan commission to assemble information on constitutional questions in preparation for a vote by electors on holding a constitutional convention, and who would report back by September 1, 2024.)

Impact

If passed, this bill would serve a pivotal role in enhancing civic engagement and informing voters on critical constitutional matters. The formation of this commission allows for a structured investigation into potential amendments or revisions to the constitution, thereby facilitating a more educated electorate. The members will include appointments from the leadership of both the House and Senate, ensuring diverse political representation. However, the absence of stipulations for the compensation of members raises concerns about the potential limitations in attracting individuals with the necessary expertise or dedication to undertake this significant task.

Summary

House Bill H8324 proposes the establishment of a bi-partisan preparatory commission charged with assembling information on constitutional questions ahead of a vote by qualified electors regarding the convening of a constitutional convention. This initiative is mandated under Article XIV Section 2 of the Rhode Island Constitution, which requires that the question of whether to hold a convention be posed to the electorate during the general election scheduled for November 5, 2024. The commission is to consist of twelve members, encompassing both elected representatives and members of the public, who will report their findings by September 1, 2024.

Contention

While the bill is largely seen as a procedural step towards empowering citizens to influence constitutional matters, its passage could ignite debates about the specific constitutional amendments that might be proposed. Proponents assert that this initiative will foster transparency and public trust in governmental processes. Conversely, skeptics worry about the potential for the political motivations of commission members to shape the outcomes of the deliberations, influencing the nature and direction of proposed changes to the constitution.

Latest H8324 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5189

Joint Resolution To Approve And Publish And Submit To The Electors A Proposition Of Amendment To The Constitution Of The State-of Elections And Campaign Finance (proposes A Constitutional Amendment Authorizing Four (4) Year Terms For Members Of The General Assembly, Elected Members From Even Numbered Districts Would Begin To Be Elected To Four (4) Year Terms.)

RI S0608

Joint Resolution To Approve And Publish And Submit To The Electors A Proposition Of Amendment To The Constitution -- Of Suffrage (would Propose To The Voters Of The State A Constitutional Amendment Regarding Eligibility To Vote And To Be A Candidate.)

RI H5770

Joint Resolution To Approve And Publish And Submit To The Electors A Proposition Of Amendment To The Constitution -- Of Suffrage (would Propose To The Voters Of The State A Constitutional Amendment Regarding Eligibility To Vote And To Be A Candidate.)

RI H5310

Joint Resolution To Approve And Publish And Submit To The Electors A Proposition Of Amendment To The Constitution -- Jury Nullification As Proper Trial Defense Argument (this Joint Resolution Would Propose To The Voters A Constitutional Amendment Which Would Allow A Criminal Defendant To Argue Jury Nullification As A Defense.)

RI S0634

Senate Resolution Creating A Special Legislative Commission To Study The Impact And Potential Economic Benefits Of Bail Reforms On Black Rhode Islanders And The State (creates An Eleven (11) Member Commission To Study The Impact And Potential Economic Benefits Of Bail Reforms On Black Rhode Islanders And The State, And Would Report Back By February 5, 2024, And Expire On April 5, 2024.)

RI S0147

Joint Resolution To Approve And Publish And Submit To The Electors A Proposition Of Amendment To The Constitution Of The State (governor And Lieutenant Governor To Appear Jointly On The Ballot) (requires Submission To Voters Election Constitutional Amendment Requiring Governor/lieutenant Governor To Run As A Team In Elections Commencing In 2026.)

RI H5882

Joint Resolution Creating A Special Legislative Commission To Write An Olmstead Plan For Rhode Island (creates A Twenty-eight (28) Member Special Legislative Commission Whose Purpose It Is To Write An Olmstead Plan For Ri, And Who Reports Back To The General Assembly No Later Than January 3, 2024, And Whose Life Expires On July 1, 2024.)

RI S0795

Joint Resolution Creating A Special Legislative Commission To Write An Olmstead Plan For Rhode Island (creates A Twenty-eight (28) Member Special Legislative Commission Whose Purpose It Is To Write An Olmstead Plan For Ri, And Who Reports Back To The General Assembly No Later Than January 3, 2024, And Whose Life Expires On July 1, 2024.)

RI H5126

Joint Resolution To Approve, Publish And Submit To The Electors A Proposition Of Amendment To The Constitution Of The State -- Four Year Terms And Term Limits For Representatives And Senators (proposes An Amendment To The State Constitution, Article Iv, To Allow For Term Limits For The General Assembly Members.)

RI H6512

Joint Resolution Amending The Joint Resolution Creating A Permanent Legislative Commission On Child Care In Rhode Island (this Resolution Would Amend The Commission Name, Membership, Appointment Process, Purpose, Funding Allowance Designation, Timeline For Membership, And Meeting Schedules.)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.