Us Congress Senate Bill SJR11

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/4/25
• Refer: 2/4/25
• Engrossed: 2/26/25
• Enrolled: 3/10/25
• Passed: 3/14/25
• Chaptered: 3/14/25

Caption

This joint resolution nullifies the final rule issued by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) titled Protection of Marine Archaeological Resources and published on September 3, 2024. The rule requires operators and lessees conducting oil and gas exploration or development on the Outer Continental Shelf and that are seeking BOEM approval for such activities to also provide BOEM with an archaeological report for the area of potential effects. The report must identify potential archaeological resources (material remains of human life or activities that are at least 50 years old and that are of archaeological interest) on the sea floor. The rule modified regulations that only required such a report when a BOEM regional director has reason to believe that an archaeological resource may be present in the lease area. 

Impact

If passed, SJR11 would have significant implications for existing state laws regarding electoral practices. This legislative measure would necessitate revisions to the state's voting procedures, potentially affecting everything from how ballots are cast to how votes are counted. The bill aims to establish a more robust framework for managing elections, which proponents believe will lead to increased voter confidence and higher turnout. Conversely, critics caution that such changes may disenfranchise voters if not implemented carefully, and they highlight the importance of ensuring access to the ballot for all eligible citizens.

Summary

SJR11 is a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at reforming certain aspects of the electoral process in the state. Specifically, the bill seeks to ensure more secure and transparent voting methods, which supporters argue is essential for maintaining public trust in the democratic process. This amendment includes provisions for updated voting technology and stricter regulations on voter registration, designed to minimize fraud and enhance accuracy in elections. By implementing these changes, SJR11 aspires to strengthen the integrity of future elections across the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SJR11 is notably divided. Advocates of the bill express strong support, framing it as a necessary step toward creating secure elections and bolstering public trust in the electoral system. They argue that with increasing concerns about election integrity, the measures outlined in the amendment are vital for the future of democratic processes in the state. On the other hand, opponents voice significant concerns regarding potential voter suppression and the implications for marginalized communities. They see some of the proposed measures as strict and potentially harmful to voter access.

Contention

Key points of contention regarding SJR11 include debates over the balance between security and accessibility in the voting process. Critics argue that while the intention to secure elections is laudable, measures that complicate voter registration or deter participation could undermine the core principles of democracy. Some legislative members and advocacy groups raise alarms about the potential for unintentional consequences that could be detrimental to democratic participation. The bill has sparked a robust dialogue about how best to achieve electoral integrity without sacrificing the inclusiveness of the voting process.

Congress_id

119-SJRES-11

Policy_area

Public Lands and Natural Resources

Introduced_date

2025-02-04