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 prohibit abortion, euthanasia, and certain other acts.
If ratified, the proposed amendment would significantly impact state laws, particularly those related to reproductive rights and end-of-life decisions. It seeks to counter the established legal precedents set by the Supreme Court, such as Roe v. Wade, by prohibiting any form of abortion or assistance in suicide. This could lead to a complete re-evaluation of how Texas and potentially other states govern these sensitive issues, aligning with a more restrictive approach to reproductive health and rights.
HJR5 is a joint resolution introduced in the Texas Legislature that seeks to apply to the United States Congress for the purpose of calling a convention under Article V of the U.S. Constitution. The resolution's primary aim is to propose an amendment that would explicitly prohibit abortion, euthanasia, and other actions that could deprive any person of life. Citing the need to uphold the dignity of human life from conception to natural death, the resolution emphasizes a fundamental belief in the personhood of all human beings, regardless of their developmental stage or condition.
The resolution is likely to spark considerable debate given the contentious nature of its subject matter. Proponents argue that it is a necessary step to protect the sanctity of life and reinforce moral standards, while opponents may view it as an infringement on personal freedoms and women’s rights. The potential for a convention called for this purpose could raise concerns about broader implications for other rights and liberties if further amendments are proposed that align with particular ideological beliefs.