Rhode Island 2022 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2355

Introduced

2/15/22

Refer

2/15/22

Report Pass

3/1/22

Engrossed

3/8/22

Refer

3/9/22

Caption

Joint Resolution To Approve And Publish And Submit To The Electors A Proposition Of Amendment To The Constitution Of The State -- Procedure To Fill Vacancy In Office Of The Secretary Of State, Attorney General Or General Treasurer

Impact

The amendment is expected to have a significant impact on the state's election processes and governmental structure. By stipulating a clear pathway for filling vacancies, the bill may reduce political uncertainty during transitional periods in state governance. This clarity could lead to more effective governance and continuity in state operations, as vacant positions would not remain unfilled for extended periods, thereby ensuring the effective functioning of important state roles.

Summary

Bill S2355 aims to amend the Rhode Island Constitution regarding the procedure for filling vacancies in the offices of Secretary of State, Attorney General, and General Treasurer. Under the proposed amendment, if a vacancy occurs in one of these offices with less than one year remaining in the unexpired term, a person will be elected by the General Assembly in grand committee. In contrast, vacancies occurring with more than one year left in the term will be filled through a special election. This change aims to clarify and streamline the process of filling these crucial government positions, enhancing governmental stability and accountability.

Contention

However, there are notable points of contention surrounding this bill. Some lawmakers and advocacy groups may express concerns about the potential consolidation of power within the General Assembly, as it could limit the voters' direct influence in choosing their representatives. Critics may argue that allowing the assembly to elect a successor in certain cases could lead to outcomes that do not reflect the electorate's wishes, thereby undermining democratic principles. These discussions will likely continue as the bill moves through the legislative process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H6660

Joint Resolution To Approve And Publish And Submit To The Electors A Proposition Of Amendment To The Constitution Of The State -- Referendum On Line Item Veto (same As 21h-5861 -- This Joint Resolution Would Provide For The Publishing And Submission To The Electors A Proposition Of Amendment To The Constitution Of The State For A Line Item Veto.)

RI H5518

Joint Resolution To Approve And Publish And Submit To The Electors A Proposition Of Amendment To The Constitution Of The State -- Line Item Veto

RI H7031

Joint Resolution To Approve, Publish And Submit To The Electors A Proposition Of Amendment To The Constitution Of The State - Four Year Terms And Term Limits For Representatives And Senators (proposes An Amendment To The State Constitution, Article Iv, To Allow For Term Limits For The General Assembly Members.)

RI S2131

Joint Resolution To Approve And Publish And Submit To The Electors A Proposition Of Amendment To The Constitution Of The State (governor And Lieutenant Governor To Appear Jointly On The Ballot) (requires Submission To Voters In 2022 Election Constitutional Amendment Requiring Governor/lieutenant Governor To Run As A Team In Elections Commencing In 2026.)

RI S2526

Joint Resolution To Approve And Publish And Submit To The Electors A Proposition Of Amendment To The Constitution Composition Of The Senate

RI H7425

Joint Resolution To Approve And Publish And Submit To The Electors A Proposition Of Amendment To The Constitution Of The State (initiative And Referendum)

RI H5126

Joint Resolution To Approve, Publish And Submit To The Electors A Proposition Of Amendment To The Constitution Of The State -- Four Year Terms And Term Limits For Representatives And Senators (proposes An Amendment To The State Constitution, Article Iv, To Allow For Term Limits For The General Assembly Members.)

RI S0208

APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- OF QUALIFICATION FOR OFFICE

RI S2662

JOINT RESOLUTION APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- OF QUALIFICATION FOR OFFICE (Proposes a state constitutional amendment to provide no person could hold office as general officer unless that person was a resident and a registered voter in the State of Rhode Island for at least 5 years, continuously, prior to taking office.)

RI S0147

Joint Resolution To Approve And Publish And Submit To The Electors A Proposition Of Amendment To The Constitution Of The State (governor And Lieutenant Governor To Appear Jointly On The Ballot) (requires Submission To Voters Election Constitutional Amendment Requiring Governor/lieutenant Governor To Run As A Team In Elections Commencing In 2026.)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.