IA
Iowa Senate Bill SJR2

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

Iowa Senate Bill SJR2

Introduced
1/10/23  
Introduced
1/10/23  

Caption

A joint resolution calling for an Article V convention in order to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that impose fiscal restraints, limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and impose limits on the number of terms that a person may serve in Congress, and requesting Congress to similarly propose such amendments.

Impact

If enacted, SJR2 would empower Iowa's General Assembly to advocate for amendments that serve to restrain federal authority and promote greater accountability among federal officials. The resolution is intended to initiate a broader movement among states to convene such a convention, thereby emphasizing the role of states as guardians of liberties and protectors against federal abuse of power. By incorporating term limits, the bill aims to encourage a more representative legislative body, leading to better engagement between elected officials and the electorate.

Summary

Senate Joint Resolution 2 (SJR2) proposes convening an Article V convention to amend the U.S. Constitution, focusing on imposing fiscal restraints on the federal government, limiting its power and jurisdiction, and establishing term limits for Congress members. Introduced by Senator Dawson, the resolution reflects concerns about the federal government's rising national debt and overreach, as well as the growing disconnect between Congress members and their constituents due to prolonged terms in office.

Contention

Despite its proponents' intentions, SJR2 raises questions about the implications of calling a constitutional convention. Critics may argue that such a convention could lead to unintended amendments or radical changes to the Constitution. The specificity of the amendments sought—fiscal restraints, limits on federal power, and term limits for Congress—is aimed at addressing significant issues but also risks opening debates on broader amendments that could alter the fundamental nature of governance in the United States. This concern reflects a broader skepticism about the potential consequences of altering the constitutional framework without comprehensive oversight.

Latest SJR2 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IA SJR5

A joint resolution calling for an Article V convention in order to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that impose fiscal restraints, limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and limit the number of terms that a person may serve in Congress, and requesting Congress to similarly propose such amendments.

IA HJR7

A joint resolution calling for an Article V convention in order to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that impose fiscal restraints, limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and limit the number of terms that a person may serve in Congress.(Formerly HJR 4.)

IA SJR7

A joint resolution calling for an Article V convention in order to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that impose fiscal restraints, limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and limit the number of terms that a person may serve in Congress.

IA HJR4

A joint resolution calling for an Article V convention in order to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that impose fiscal restraints, limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and limit the number of terms that a person may serve in Congress.(See HJR 7.)

IA SJR2

A joint resolution calling for an Article V convention in order to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that impose fiscal restraints, limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and limit the number of terms that a person may serve in Congress.

IA HJR6

A joint resolution calling for an Article V convention in order to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that impose fiscal restraints, limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and limit the number of terms that a person may serve in Congress or as a federal official.(See HJR 11.)

IA SJR1

A joint resolution calling for an Article V convention in order to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that impose fiscal restraints, limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and impose term limits on federal officials and members of Congress.

IA HJR11

A joint resolution calling for an Article V convention in order to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that impose fiscal restraints, limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and limit the number of terms that a person may serve in Congress or as a federal official.(Formerly HJR 6.)

IA SR1

Urging The Congress Of The United States 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 For Members Of Congress.

IA SCR6

Urging The Congress Of The United States 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 For Members Of Congress.

Similar Bills

CA AJR27

Convention of states for proposing an amendment to the United States Constitution: federal balanced budget.

AL HJR104

RESCINDING ALL PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS OF THE ALABAMA LEGISLATURE WHICH REQUEST CONGRESS TO CALL A CONVENTION PURSUANT TO ARTICLE V OF THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION.

AL SJR57

RESCINDING ALL PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS OF THE ALABAMA LEGISLATURE WHICH REQUEST CONGRESS TO CALL A CONVENTION PURSUANT TO ARTICLE V OF THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION.

NJ AJR207

Urges Congress to call constitutional convention to consider reproductive health care rights.

HI SR81

Ratifying A Proposed Amendment To The Constitution Of The United States Giving The Congress Of The United States Power To Limit, Regulate, And Prohibit The Labor Of Persons Under Eighteen Years Of Age.

HI SR109

Ratifying A Proposed Amendment To The Constitution Of The United States Giving The Congress Of The United States Power To Limit, Regulate, And Prohibit The Labor Of Persons Under Eighteen Years Of Age.

US SR107

A resolution recognizing the expiration of the Equal Rights Amendment proposed by Congress in March 1972, and observing that Congress has no authority to modify a resolution proposing a constitutional amendment after the amendment has been submitted to the States or after the amendment has expired.

HI HCR101

Urging And Applying To The Congress Of The United States Under The Provisions Of Article V Of The Constitution Of The United States For The Calling Of A Convention Of The States, Limited To Proposing Amendments To The Constitution Of The United States That Limit The Terms Of Office For Officials Of The Federal Government And Members Of Congress.