Tennessee House Bill HJR0005

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/16/22
• Refer: 1/10/23
• Refer: 3/7/23
• Refer: 3/15/23
• Engrossed: 3/23/23
• Enrolled: 4/12/24
• Passed: 4/22/24

Caption

A RESOLUTION to make application to the Congress of the United States pursuant to Article V of the United States Constitution to call a convention for proposing amendments to set a limit on the number of terms to which a person may be elected as a Member of the United States House of Representatives and to set a limit on the number of terms to which a person may be elected as a Member of the United States Senate.

Impact

If HJR0005 is enacted, it would not directly change Tennessee state law but would serve as a formal application to the federal government urging a constitutional amendment process addressing term limits for Congress members. This move could contribute to a significant shift in how Congress operates, prompting discussions and debates on legislative effectiveness, accountability, and the balance of political power. However, the realization of such amendments would depend on gathering support from a sufficient number of state legislatures, potentially reshaping federal elections and representation in the long term.

Summary

HJR0005 is a resolution from the Tennessee General Assembly that seeks to apply for a convention under Article V of the United States Constitution. The primary goal of this resolution is to propose amendments that would impose limits on the number of terms elected officials can serve in the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. The resolution articulates the need for such a convention by requiring the endorsement of two-thirds of the state legislatures for Congress to be obligated to call such a convention. The initiators believe that setting term limits is crucial for refreshing the democratic process and ensuring that elected representatives are held accountable to their constituents.

Contention

The resolution has raised various points of contention among lawmakers and political analysts. Supporters argue that imposing term limits would curb career politicians, increase legislative turnover, and foster a government more representative of the populace. On the other hand, critics have voiced concerns that term limits might lead to a loss of experienced legislators, diminishing the effectiveness and continuity in governance. The resolution implies broader discussions about democracy and representation, which may provoke strong responses from different political factions and advocacy groups focused on electoral reform.