Applying To Congress, As Provided By Article V Of The Constitution Of The United States Of America, To Set A Limit On The Number Of Terms That A Person May Be Elected As A Member Of Congress.
Impact
The resolution reflects a significant movement within Hawaii to join other states in advocating for term limits at the federal level. Currently, 16 states have imposed term limits on their state legislators, which suggests a trend toward increasing political accountability and reducing incumbency advantage. Should Congress respond favorably to such resolutions, this could lead to a nationwide amendment that would fundamentally alter congressional elections and the dynamics of federal governance.
Summary
HCR12 is a House Concurrent Resolution introduced in the Hawaii State Legislature during the 2026 session. The bill applies to Congress under Article V of the U.S. Constitution, proposing that there be a limit on the number of terms that a person may be elected as a Member of the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate. The initiative aims to promote political accountability by reducing the time elected officials can hold congressional seats, thus encouraging new representatives to enter the political sphere.
Contention
Supporters of HCR12 argue that imposing term limits is necessary to prevent career politicians from dominating the legislative process and to ensure a regular influx of new ideas and perspectives. Critics, however, contend that such limits could disrupt the continuity and efficacy of governance by forcing out experienced legislators. The resolution's passage in Hawaii echoes a growing sentiment among some constituents that unchecked tenure in Congress may lead to stagnation and detachment from voters' needs.
Urging The United States Congress To Call A Convention For Proposing Amendments Pursuant To Article V Of The United States Constitution Limited To Proposing Amendments That Impose Fiscal Restraints On The Federal Government, Limit The Power And Jurisdiction Of The Federal Government, And Limit The Terms Of Office For Its Officials And Members Of Congress.
Ratifying A Proposed Amendment To The Constitution Of The United States Giving The Congress Of The United States Power To Limit, Regulate, And Prohibit The Labor Of Persons Under Eighteen Years Of Age.
Ratifying A Proposed Amendment To The Constitution Of The United States Giving The Congress Of The United States Power To Limit, Regulate, And Prohibit The Labor Of Persons Under Eighteen Years Of Age.
Requesting Hawaii's Congressional Delegation To Petition The United States Department Of Agriculture To Address The Lack Of Parity Between Hawaii And Other States And Territories Pertaining To The Export Of Agricultural Goods.
Urging The United States Congress To Call A Convention For Proposing Amendments Pursuant To Article V Of The United States Constitution Limited To Proposing Amendments That Impose Fiscal Restraints On The Federal Government, Limit The Power And Jurisdiction Of The Federal Government, And Limit The Terms Of Office For Its Officials And Members Of Congress.
Urging The United States Congress To Call A Convention For Proposing Amendments Pursuant To Article V Of The United States Constitution Limited To Proposing Amendments That Impose Fiscal Restraints On The Federal Government, Limit The Power And Jurisdiction Of The Federal Government, And Limit The Terms Of Office For Its Officials And Members Of Congress.
Urging The United States Congress To Call A Convention For Proposing Amendments Pursuant To Article V Of The United States Constitution Limited To Proposing Amendments That Impose Fiscal Restraints On The Federal Government, Limit The Power And Jurisdiction Of The Federal Government, And Limit The Terms Of Office For Its Officials And Members Of Congress.