Proposes constitutional amendment to require two-thirds majority vote by Legislature for bills proposing a new or increased State tax, fee, surcharge or civil penalty.
If enacted, ACR48 would modify Article IV, Section IV, paragraph 6 of the New Jersey State Constitution to stipulate that all taxation measures must obtain a two-thirds majority in both houses of the Legislature. This would create a higher threshold for fiscal decisions, potentially requiring more negotiation and compromise among lawmakers, which could delay the process of tax legislation but might promote more comprehensive discussion about state fiscal policy. The change aims to provide a safeguard against unconsidered tax hikes by necessitating broader approval, thus reflecting greater public support before any tax increases are implemented.
ACR48 is a proposed constitutional amendment in New Jersey aimed at requiring a two-thirds majority vote in the Legislature for the approval of any bill or joint resolution that proposes a new or increased state tax, fee, surcharge, or civil penalty. Currently, only a simple majority is needed to pass tax-related legislation, which allows for quicker legislative action but may not reflect a broad consensus among representatives. This bill seeks to strengthen the procedural standards required for enacting significant revenue measures, ensuring that they are agreed upon by a supermajority of the legislative body.
The proposal has the potential to spark debate among lawmakers, particularly concerning the balance between effective governance and the need for accountability in revenue generation. Proponents of ACR48 argue that it fosters fiscal responsibility by ensuring that tax increases cannot be passed without significant legislative consensus, thereby protecting taxpayers from sudden and possibly unrepresentative tax hikes. Conversely, opponents might contend that the two-thirds requirement could hinder the government's ability to respond swiftly to financial emergencies or necessities, possibly obstructing vital funding for public services.