North Carolina 2023-2024 Regular Session

North Carolina House Bill H204

Introduced
2/23/23  

Caption

Term Limits for Legislators

Impact

If enacted, HB 204 would represent a substantial shift in the governance of North Carolina, as it directly affects the eligibility of legislators. The amendment is designed to encourage fresh perspectives and reduce political stagnation by limiting the number of consecutive years an individual can serve in the General Assembly. This legislative change would necessitate a reevaluation of existing political dynamics and could potentially lead to a more diverse representation in future assemblies, affecting policies and attitudes towards long-standing issues in the state.

Summary

House Bill 204, titled 'Term Limits for Legislators,' proposes an amendment to the North Carolina Constitution that would impose limits on the number of terms a member of the General Assembly may serve. Specifically, it seeks to limit legislators to no more than eight cumulative terms in office. This amendment is significant as it aims to reshape the political landscape in North Carolina by promoting turnover and reducing the likelihood of entrenched political incumbency. If approved, the amendment would be presented to voters in the general election scheduled for November 2024, and if a majority vote in favor, it would take effect with the legislators elected in 2024.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 204 appears to be mixed. Proponents argue that term limits are essential for enhancing government accountability and fostering democracy by allowing new leaders to emerge. They contend that limiting terms can break the cycle of career politicians and increase responsiveness to constituents' needs. However, opponents express concerns about the potential downsides of such limits, suggesting that the loss of experienced legislators may lead to a decrease in legislative efficacy and continuity in long-term projects, thereby hampering governance.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention regarding HB 204 is the debate over the efficacy of term limits. Critics question whether imposing such limits genuinely democratizes the political process or simply results in a constant turnover of inexperienced legislators who might struggle with the complexities of governance. Furthermore, concerns are raised about the broader implications for political stability and legislative effectiveness as experienced lawmakers are replaced under the new term limit rules. The proposed amendment raises fundamental questions about the balance between fresh voices and the value of legislative experience in the state's governance.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NC S462

Const Amend: Legislative Terms/Compensation

NC HB1312

Term limits; all elected officials limited to serving only two consecutive terms in office.

NC HB550

Term limits; all elected officials limited to serving only two consecutive terms in office.

NC HJR12

Limiting Terms Of State Legislators

NC HCR2057

Legislature; lifetime term limits; salary

NC H151

Term Limits For Congress

NC H761

Limit Session Length

NC S487

Term Limits for Congress

NC SC502

Constitution; place term limits on legislators.

NC HB1703

Proposing An Amendment To Article Iii, Section 4, Of The Constitution Of The State Of Hawaii To Establish Term Limits For Legislators.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.