Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0725

Introduced
3/7/25  

Caption

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- OF THE LEGISLATIVE POWER (Proposes a state constitutional amendment that no department or other entity created by the state would have poser to incur debt in excess of $ 50,000, without express approval from the legislature and voters.)

Impact

If adopted, this amendment would replace articles in the state's constitution concerning the legislative powers related to borrowing. By setting a clear cap on the amount of debt that state entities can incur without public approval, the bill aims to strengthen the checks and balances involved in state financial management. This change would necessitate that any proposed debt above the specified threshold go through a rigorous process involving both legislative and public scrutiny, thereby promoting fiscal responsibility.

Summary

Bill S0725 proposes a constitutional amendment aimed at regulating the borrowing capabilities of state entities. Specifically, it seeks to prohibit any department or authority created by the state, as well as any corporation or quasi-public corporation, from incurring state debts exceeding fifty thousand dollars without prior approval from both the General Assembly and the public. This measure is intended to reinforce accountability and transparency in state financial obligations, ensuring that significant fiscal actions cannot be taken without the explicit consent of the voters.

Contention

Notable points of contention arise around the implications of this bill on state governance and financial flexibility. Proponents argue that it safeguards taxpayer interests by preventing state bodies from incurring significant debts without public oversight. Conversely, opponents may express concerns that this measure could hinder the state's ability to respond promptly to fiscal emergencies or unforeseen financial needs, particularly in times of economic stress when quick funding solutions may be essential.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S2570

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- OF THE LEGISLATIVE POWER (Proposes a state constitutional amendment that no department or other entity created by the state would have poser to incur debt in excess of $ 50,000, without express approval from the legislature and voters.)

RI H8017

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- OF SUFFRAGE (This Joint Resolution would propose to the voters of the state a constitutional amendment which would provide that no person who is not a citizen of the United States would be allowed to vote in this state.)

RI S2779

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- OF SUFFRAGE (Would propose to the voters of the state a constitutional amendment regarding eligibility to vote and to be a candidate.)

RI S0608

Joint Resolution To Approve And Publish And Submit To The Electors A Proposition Of Amendment To The Constitution -- Of Suffrage (would Propose To The Voters Of The State A Constitutional Amendment Regarding Eligibility To Vote And To Be A Candidate.)

RI H5770

Joint Resolution To Approve And Publish And Submit To The Electors A Proposition Of Amendment To The Constitution -- Of Suffrage (would Propose To The Voters Of The State A Constitutional Amendment Regarding Eligibility To Vote And To Be A Candidate.)

RI H7474

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- OF SUFFRAGE (Would propose to the voters of the state a constitutional amendment regarding eligibility to vote and to be a candidate.)

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 S2443

JOINT RESOLUTION JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- REMOVING PROVISIONS PROVIDING FOR ELECTION BY PLURALITY (This Joint Resolution would propose to the voters of the state a constitutional amendment which would remove from the Constitution the provision of Article IV, Section 2, that provide for election by plurality.)

RI S2445

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 (This proposed amendment to the Constitution would provide the governor with a line item veto on the budget and other bills for the appropriation of money.)

RI S0341

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 (this Proposed Amendment To The Constitution Would Provide The Governor With A Line Item Veto On The Budget And Other Bills For The Appropriation Of Money.)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.