Missouri House Bill HJR77

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/5/22
• Refer: 2/1/22

Caption

Modifies terms for members of the house of representatives and term limits for representatives and senators

Impact

Should HJR77 be enacted, it would amend the current constitutional provisions governing term limits for lawmakers, thereby potentially reshaping the legislative landscape. By enforcing new limits, the bill could invigorate political participation among the electorate, as it introduces more frequent opportunities for citizens to elect new representatives. Furthermore, the implications extend to the strategies employed by political parties in candidate selection and campaign strategies, as they adapt to the new regulatory environment surrounding term appointments.

Summary

HJR77 proposes changes to the terms and term limits for members of the House of Representatives and Senators. The bill aims to modify the existing rules to create a more structured and potentially limited time frame for legislative service. The intent behind the changes is to promote political accountability and reduce careerism in public office, which is a point of contention within political discussions. By imposing stricter term limits, the bill seeks to pave the way for newer representatives while ensuring that there is a dynamic turnover in legislative composition.

Contention

The discussions around HJR77 are marked with notable points of contention. Supporters argue that limiting terms for elected officials helps prevent the entrenchment of power and aligns with democratic principles by allowing fresh perspectives in governance. However, opponents voice concerns that such restrictions could lead to a loss of experienced legislators who possess valuable knowledge and expertise in navigating complex policy issues. The debate also touches on the effectiveness of term limits in enhancing or undermining accountability in governance, making HJR77 a focal point of intense legislative examination.