Constitutional amendment; special sessions, required certain states of emergency (first reference).
Notably, SJR36 allows for the possibility of state legislative sessions to be extended for up to 30 days with the concurrence of two-thirds of the members of both houses. Perhaps the most significant provision is the requirement for the Governor to convene a special session in response to a declared state of emergency that exceeds 90 days. This change would ensure the legislative body is activated to address significant emergencies promptly and effectively, thus enhancing legislative responsiveness during critical situations.
SJR36 is a proposed amendment to the Constitution of Virginia designed to modify the scheduling and convening of legislative sessions within the state. This amendment stipulates that the General Assembly will convene annually on the second Wednesday in January and introduces limitations on the duration of regular sessions, which cannot exceed 60 days in even-numbered years and 30 days in odd-numbered years. The bill seeks to create a more structured and predictable legislative calendar, potentially improving the efficiency of state governance.
While the bill aims to streamline legislative processes, it may also present points of contention. Critics may argue that imposing strict time limits could hinder the legislature's ability to address complex issues that require more thorough deliberation. Furthermore, mandating special sessions during prolonged states of emergency could provoke political debates about executive power and legislative authority, especially in instances where the nature of emergencies may not warrant immediate legislative involvement.
The bill was voted on January 25, 2022, where it received overwhelming support from the Senate, with a vote of 15 in favor and none against. It has been continued to 2023 for further consideration, reflecting ongoing discussions surrounding its implications within the General Assembly and its potential impacts on governance in Virginia.