Hawaii Senate Bill SR158

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/12/25

Caption

Applying To The United States Congress To Call An Article V Convention To Propose Certain Limited Amendments To The United States Constitution.

Impact

The proposed amendments under SR158 aim to impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, limit its power and jurisdiction, and establish term limits for federal officials and members of Congress. If the convention is convened and these amendments are adopted, states would gain greater autonomy over fiscal policy and governance, potentially reducing the weight of federal mandates and the influence of federal funding restrictions on state-led initiatives. This shift would empower states more significantly in decision-making processes affecting their citizens.

Summary

Senate Resolution 158 (SR158) seeks to apply to the United States Congress to call for an Article V convention to propose limited amendments to the U.S. Constitution. The resolution is predicated on concerns that the President's executive orders have exceeded constitutional authority, leading to a concentration of federal power that undermines accountability to the public and is overly influenced by lobbyists and special interests. Proponents argue that a convention of states can address these issues more effectively, advocating for reforms that enhance responsiveness at the state level rather than relying solely on federal oversight.

Contention

Notably, the resolution emphasizes that any proposed amendments to the Constitution must not alter the provisions of the Bill of Rights. This stipulation is critical as it seeks to assuage fears that the convention could be used to undermine established rights. Furthermore, the resolution delineates that Congress's role is limited to merely facilitating the calling of the convention, thus preserving state sovereignty over delegate selection and convention rules. This aspect may spark debate among various political factions regarding the potential risks and benefits of a convention, particularly concerning the implications of limiting federal authority.