North Dakota 2025-2026 Regular Session

North Dakota Senate Bill SCR4003

Introduced
1/10/25  
Refer
1/10/25  

Caption

A concurrent resolution to rescind all extant applications by the North Dakota Legislative Assembly to call a convention to propose amendments to the United States Constitution under Article V of the United States Constitution.

Impact

The resolution articulates that while the Constitution has mechanisms for amendment, these do not require a convention. The bill argues that an Article V convention poses an inherent risk to citizens' rights and the structure of government, suggesting that the existing framework of accountability and governance is sufficient for maintaining the principles outlined in the Constitution. The resolution positions itself against what is seen as a dangerous political move that could invite unwanted changes to foundational constitutional principles.

Summary

SCR4003 is a concurrent resolution from the North Dakota Legislative Assembly that aims to rescind all previous applications made by the state legislature to Congress for calling a convention to propose amendments to the United States Constitution under Article V. This resolution reflects a cautious stance towards the process of amending the Constitution, emphasizing the potential risks involved in opening up a convention that could propose wide-ranging changes.

Contention

Debate around SCR4003 mainly centers on the validity and safety of holding an Article V convention. Proponents of rescinding such applications assert that it protects citizens' rights and insists on reliance on an informed electorate to address federal overreach. Opponents, however, may argue that the opportunity to propose meaningful amendments that reflect contemporary societal needs should not be dismissed outright, potentially leading to further discussions about the balance between state autonomy and the federal framework.

Notable_points

SCR4003 urges not only the rescindment of North Dakota's applications but also encourages other state legislatures with similar applications to do the same. This call for unity among states signifies a broader movement among various states to reassess the implications of an amending convention and to safeguard their legislative authority against potential overreach by the federal government.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ND SCR4012

A concurrent resolution to rescind all extant applications by the North Dakota Legislative Assembly to call a convention to propose amendments to the United States Constitution, under Article V of the United States Constitution.

ND HCR3019

Prohibiting the legislative assembly from proposing certain amendments to article XV of the Constitution of North Dakota; and to provide for application.

ND HCR3012

A concurrent resolution recognizing the constitutional duty of Congress to declare war and the unconstitutional deployment of military personnel to active duty pursuant to clause 11 of section 8 of article I of the United States Constitution.

ND SCR4019

A concurrent resolution to repeal section 10 of article X of the Constitution of North Dakota, which imposes a statewide property tax levy of one mill for support of the state medical center at the University of North Dakota; and to provide an effective date.

ND HCR3004

A concurrent resolution encouraging North Dakota citizens to purchase United States flags made out of hemp and manufactured in North Dakota.

ND HCR3018

A concurrent resolution directing the Legislative Management to consider studying strategies to increase the number of North Dakotans who receive health benefits coverage.

ND HCR3006

A concurrent resolution urging Congress to support policies to increase oil refining capacity in the United States.

ND SCR4010

A concurrent resolution designating the Winchester Model 1876 as North Dakota's state firearm.

ND HCR3031

The subject matter of initiated measures and constitutional amendments, the manner of signing petitions, the establishment of an electronic signature gathering system by the secretary of state, and the threshold for placing a measure on the ballot; to provide for application; and to provide an effective date.

ND SCR4013

The process for approving initiated constitutional amendments, the requirement of a single subject for each petition and measure, the individuals able to circulate a petition, and the requirement that all ballot measures must be voted on at the primary and general election.

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