A bill for an act concerning persons appointed to a convention called by the United States Congress to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States, making appropriations, and providing penalties.(Formerly HF 438.)
Impact
The bill significantly alters the legislative landscape by establishing a formal process for the appointment and operation of commissioners at a convention. It mandates strict adherence to specified topics during a convention, stipulates penalties for any commissioner who oversteps their authority, and includes provisions for the removal of commissioners from their roles. Notably, the bill grants significant power to a newly formed advisory committee tasked with reviewing potential misconduct and facilitating the removal of commissioners deemed unfit for duty, thereby centralizing legislative oversight.
Summary
House File 654 outlines the governance and regulations concerning commissioners appointed to represent Iowa at a U.S. Congress-called convention for proposing constitutional amendments. Key provisions include the appointment process, which requires two commissioners from each chamber of the general assembly and one additional member selected through a conference committee. The bill emphasizes the qualifications for commissioners, including citizenship, residency, and the absence of certain criminal backgrounds, ensuring that appointees possess both integrity and commitment to their duties.
Contention
Debate surrounding HF654 focuses primarily on the limits of authority assigned to commissioners and the mechanisms for their oversight. Critics express concerns that the stringent removal processes could be misused for political ends, undermining the independence of elected representatives at a convention. Furthermore, the classification of voting or procedural misconduct as a class D felony raises alarm about potential chilling effects on the conduct of commissioners, who might face criminal charges for decisions made in good faith during a convention.
Implementation
If enacted, HF654 would require the general assembly to remain vigilant in monitoring the actions of appointed commissioners and could lead to more frequent calls for special sessions should Congress initiate a convention. The bill also emphasizes the necessity of proper financial disclosures and ethical conduct, aligning commissioner responsibilities with existing legislative ethics. Overall, it aims to ensure that Iowa's representation at future conventions is both responsible and well-regulated.
Similar To
A bill for an act concerning persons appointed to a convention called by the United States Congress to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States, making appropriations, and providing penalties.(See HF 654.)
A bill for an act concerning persons appointed to a convention called by the United States Congress to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States, making appropriations, and providing penalties.
A bill for an act concerning persons appointed to a convention called by the United States Congress to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States, making appropriations, and providing penalties.(See HF 654.)
Applying to the United States Congress under Article V of the United States Constitution to call for a convention for proposing an amendment to the constitution establishing congressional term limits.
Applying To The United States Congress For An Article V Convention Of The States For The Purpose Of Proposing An Amendment To The United States Constitution To Impose Term Limits Of Members For The United States Congress.