Establishes process for selection, instruction, and oversight of commissioners to Article V convention for proposing amendments to United States Constitution; establishes criminal penalties for certain violations.
Senate Bill S3445 establishes a framework for the selection, instruction, and oversight of commissioners who will represent New Jersey at a potential Article V convention for proposing amendments to the United States Constitution. This bill outlines specific eligibility requirements for commissioners, including qualifications related to citizenship, residency, and prior roles in government. It emphasizes the importance of a transparent and accountable process in appointing individuals who will act on behalf of the state during the constitutional convention.
One notable aspect of S3445 is the establishment of an advisory committee composed of legislative members responsible for monitoring the activities of the appointed commissioners. The advisory committee has the authority to recall or suspend commissioners if they exceed their mandated authority. This provision aims to ensure that commissioners adhere to the scope outlined by the New Jersey legislature, thereby maintaining control over the constitutional amendment proposals that may arise from the convention.
Importantly, the bill forbids commissioners from accepting gifts or benefits of significant value while serving, thus promoting ethical standards among those involved in the convention. The rationale behind this restriction is to prevent conflicts of interest and to reinforce the integrity of the commissioner's role during the convention.
The bill also introduces criminal penalties for violations of these provisions, specifically targeting those who exceed their authority or attempt to undermine the legitimacy of the commissioner’s duties. The enactment of such measures reflects the legislative intent to safeguard the amendment process, which constitutes a significant constitutional responsibility. Overall, S3445 serves to structure the involvement of New Jersey in national constitutional discussions while ensuring ethical and legal compliance from its commissioners.