To apply to Congress under Article V of the United States Constitution to call a convention for an amendment to the Constitution establishing congressional term limits.
Impact
If passed, SJR501 would initiate a process whereby South Dakota becomes part of a collective state effort to call a convention aimed at amending the Constitution. This would require the support of at least two-thirds of the states to compel Congress to convene. The implications of such a constitutional amendment could reshape the landscape of federal elections and governance, ultimately enabling more frequent turnover in Congress, which proponents argue could stimulate fresh perspectives and responsiveness to voter needs.
Summary
SJR501, introduced in the South Dakota Legislature, is a joint resolution that seeks to apply to Congress for a limited convention under Article V of the United States Constitution. The primary intention of this resolution is to propose an amendment that would institute term limits for members of both the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate. The resolution reflects a growing sentiment among certain lawmakers and constituents who believe that limiting the number of terms elected officials can serve will enhance democratic accountability and reduce the entrenchment of career politicians.
Contention
The resolution is likely to face both support and opposition. Advocates contend that Congressional term limits will curb the influence of long-standing incumbents and encourage a rotation of elected officials, which may better reflect the will of the electorate. However, critics argue that term limits could potentially undermine the experience and expertise of legislators, leading to a less effective legislative process. The concern exists that new, less experienced lawmakers may struggle to navigate the complexities of federal governance effectively.
Notable_points
SJR501 emphasizes a 'continuing application' status, meaning it will persist until sufficient states join in the call for a convention on the specified subject matter. This resolution is positioned against a backdrop of similar applications from other states, suggesting a growing national movement towards implementing term limits. As such, it raises important questions about state versus federal authority and the mechanisms through which constitutional amendments should be pursued.
Applying to the United States Congress under Article V of the United States Constitution to call for a convention for proposing an amendment to the constitution establishing congressional term limits.
Applying to the United States Congress under Article V of the United States Constitution to call for a convention for proposing an amendment to the constitution establishing congressional term limits.
Applying to the United States Congress under Article V of the United States Constitution to call for a convention for proposing an amendment establishing congressional term limits.
Applying to the Congress of the United States to call a convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for the limited purpose of proposing an amendment to the constitution to limit the terms of office of members of Congress.
Applying to the Congress of the United States to call a convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for the limited purpose of proposing an amendment to the constitution to limit the terms of office of members of Congress.
Applying to the Congress of the United States to call a convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for the limited purpose of proposing an amendment to the constitution to limit the terms of office of members of Congress.
Applies to Congress for the calling of an Article V convention of the states to propose an amendment to the United States Constitution regarding term limits for members of Congress