SD
South Dakota Senate Bill SJR502

South Dakota 2025 Regular Session

South Dakota Senate Bill SJR502

Introduced
1/14/25  
Refer
1/14/25  
Report Pass
1/17/25  
Engrossed
1/21/25  
Refer
1/22/25  
Report Pass
2/3/25  

Caption

Applying to the United States Congress for a convention of the states to propose amendments to the United States Constitution regarding the imposition of fiscal restraints on the federal government, further limiting the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and limiting the terms of office for members of Congress and other federal officials.

Impact

If enacted, SJR502 would initiate a significant constitutional process as outlined in Article V of the U.S. Constitution. Should two-thirds of state legislatures express similar intentions, a constitutional convention could be convened. This has the potential to reshape the balance of power between state and federal governments by redefining federal authority and financial responsibilities. The implications of this resolution may also provoke further debate over state sovereignty versus federal oversight.

Summary

Senate Joint Resolution 502 (SJR502) proposes an application to the United States Congress for a convention of the states aimed at proposing amendments to the U.S. Constitution. The key focus of this bill is to impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, limit its power and jurisdiction, and set term limits for members of Congress and other federal officials. This initiative is underscored by concerns regarding excessive federal spending and the resulting national debt, which has reportedly surpassed the nation's GDP.

Contention

Debate surrounding SJR502 is likely to hinge on differing philosophies regarding the proper size and scope of the federal government. Supporters argue that the federal government has overreached significantly and that states must take proactive measures to safeguard their autonomy and fiscal integrity. On the other hand, critics of the resolution may voice concerns about the unpredictability of a convention, fearing that it could lead to unintended changes to the Constitution, particularly regarding the Bill of Rights, as the bill expressly prohibits any amendments affecting these rights.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

SD SJR503

Applying for a convention of states under Article V of the Constitution of the United States, to impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, to limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and to limit the terms of office for members of Congress and other federal officials.

SD SJR508

Applying for a convention of states under Article V of the Constitution of the United States, to impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, to limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and to limit the terms of office for members of Congress and other federal officials.

SD HJR5005

Applying for a convention of states under Article V of the Constitution of the United States, to impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, to limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and to limit the terms of office for federal officials and members of Congress.

SD HJR5002

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.

SD SJR509

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.

SD HB1191

Require an official declaration of war or other Congressional action before the South Dakota National Guard may be deployed by the federal government.

SD SJR503

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, limiting the amount of ad valorem tax on real property, and limiting the increase in the assessed value of real property.

SD SJR502

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election amendments to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota revising and establishing certain constitutional provisions regarding the lieutenant governor and the presiding officers of the Senate and House of Representatives.

SD SCR604

Urging the United States Congress to re-introduce the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act.

SD HB1130

Require an official declaration of war or other Congressional action before the South Dakota National Guard may be deployed outside of the state.

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Voting thresholds.