Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HJR11

Introduced
2/28/25  

Caption

A joint resolution calling for an Article V convention in order to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that impose fiscal restraints, limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and limit the number of terms that a person may serve in Congress or as a federal official.(Formerly HJR 6.)

Impact

If enacted, HJR11 would significantly influence the balance of power between state and federal governments. It emphasizes the states' right to propose amendments to restrain federal authority, which supporters argue is necessary due to perceived abuses of power and excessive spending by the federal government. The resolution highlights concerns regarding the national debt and federal mandates that are seen as hindrances to state autonomy and governance.

Summary

HJR11, introduced in Iowa's General Assembly, is a joint resolution calling for a convention under Article V of the United States Constitution. The primary objective of HJR11 is to propose amendments aimed at imposing fiscal restraints on the federal government, limiting its powers and jurisdiction, and setting term limits for federal officials and members of Congress. This resolution follows the belief that state legislators are essential in safeguarding liberties against potential federal overreach.

Contention

The notion of an Article V convention is not without controversy. Critics of HJR11 express fears that such a convention could open the door to broader changes to the Constitution unrelated to its intended purpose. There is apprehension that the convention could lead to amendments that might undermine existing rights or expand governmental power rather than limit it. Furthermore, there are debates within the legislature regarding the effectiveness and safety of such a measure, given the uncertain outcomes of a constitutional convention.

Companion Bills

IA HJR6

Similar To A joint resolution calling for an Article V convention in order to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that impose fiscal restraints, limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and limit the number of terms that a person may serve in Congress or as a federal official.(See HJR 11.)

Previously Filed As

IA HJR6

A joint resolution calling for an Article V convention in order to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that impose fiscal restraints, limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and limit the number of terms that a person may serve in Congress or as a federal official.(See HJR 11.)

IA SJR2011

A joint resolution calling for an Article V convention in order to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, impose fiscal restraints, and limit the number of terms that a person may serve in Congress or as a federal official.

IA HJR2004

A joint resolution calling for an Article V convention in order to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, impose fiscal restraints, and limit the number of terms that a person may serve in Congress or as a federal official.

IA SJR2

A joint resolution calling for an Article V convention in order to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that impose fiscal restraints, limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and limit the number of terms that a person may serve in Congress.

IA SJR58

A JOINT RESOLUTION applying for an Article V convention to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and limit the terms of office for federal government officials and members of Congress.

IA HJR51

A JOINT RESOLUTION applying for an Article V convention to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and limit the terms of office for federal government officials and members of Congress.

IA SJR51

A JOINT RESOLUTION applying for an Article V convention to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and limit the terms of office for federal government officials and members of Congress.

IA HR125

A Concurrent Resolution petitioning the Congress of the United States to call a Convention for proposing amendments pursuant to Article V of the Constitution of the United States 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 for members of Congress.

IA SR112

A Concurrent Resolution petitioning the Congress of the United States to call a Convention for proposing amendments pursuant to Article V of the Constitution of the United States 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 for members of Congress.

IA SCR98

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.

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