Constitutional amendment; requiring certain majority vote of the people to pass constitutional amendments; ballot title.
Impact
The impact of HJR1035 on state laws would be notable, as it shifts the balance of power regarding constitutional amendments. Currently, a simple majority vote in the legislature can propose amendments, but this resolution seeks to attach more stringent voting requirements that could prevent the passage of amendments that do not enjoy wide support. This could lead to a more stable constitutional framework but may also stifle necessary reforms that require amendments to address emerging issues.
Summary
HJR1035 is a joint resolution proposing a significant amendment to Section 1 of Article XXIV of the Oklahoma Constitution. The proposed amendment seeks to change the requirements necessary for passing constitutional amendments. Under HJR1035, any such amendments would require a fifty-five percent majority of all electors voting on the amendment, or a majority in at least twenty counties within the state, to be approved. This proposal aims to ensure a stricter threshold for constitutional changes, thereby making the amendment process more challenging and significant.
Contention
Debate around HJR1035 could highlight concerns regarding democratic representation and the accessibility of amendments to the state constitution. Proponents might argue that the increased majority requirement safeguards the constitution against hasty or ill-considered changes, ensuring that amendments have broad support. On the contrary, opponents may contend that such high thresholds could disenfranchise voters, making it harder to respond to the needs and will of the populace, especially during times of rapid change or crisis.
Constitutional amendment; limiting state questions on ballot to odd-numbered years; requiring proposed constitutional amendments or state questions to receive certain majority vote.
Constitutional amendment; limiting state questions on ballot to odd-numbered years; requiring proposed constitutional amendments or state questions to receive certain majority vote.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.