A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the State of Iowa altering the terms of service for members of the house of representatives.
Impact
If passed, this amendment will significantly impact the electoral cycle and governance in Iowa. The change in term length is designed to enhance stability within the legislature, allowing members to focus on longer-term goals and policies without the frequent interruptions associated with biennial elections. This shift may also reduce electoral costs and increase legislative experience among representatives, potentially leading to more effective governance and oversight. Furthermore, the amendment will require a public vote for final ratification, promoting citizen engagement in the legislative process.
Summary
HJR2002 is a joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the State of Iowa that aims to alter the terms of service for members of the Iowa House of Representatives. This amendment changes the term lengths for representatives from two years to four years, establishing that members are to be elected in even-numbered years on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November. The amendment stipulates that approximately half of the representatives will be elected every two years, thereby facilitating a staggered election process.
Contention
The proposal may face contention regarding the implications of such term extensions for accountability and responsiveness to constituents. Critics might argue that longer terms could diminish the frequency of accountability elections, allowing representatives to become less connected to their districts over time. Supporters, however, contend that the proposed structure balances the need for continuity in governance with the need for regular elections. They emphasize that the amendment also includes provisions for re-evaluation and redistricting which ensures that legislative representation remains relevant and effective over time.
A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the State of Iowa limiting years of service for members of the general assembly and certain statewide elected officials.
A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the State of Iowa limiting years of service for members of the general assembly and certain statewide elected officials.
A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the State of Iowa relating to citizen initiatives to amend the Constitution of the State of Iowa.
A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the State of Iowa relating to the sponsorship of bills by members of the general assembly.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.
(Constitutional Amendment) Provides for the election of constitutional convention delegates and vote requirements necessary for the adoption of a new constitution (RR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)
(Constitutional Amendment) Modifies disposition of certain state revenues through repeal of the Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund and deposits of certain revenue streams into the Budget Stabilization Fund (RRF INCREASE GF RV See Note)
(Constitutional Amendment) Provides relative to the application of state monies to the unfunded accrued liability of the Teachers' Retirement System of La. (EN DECREASE SD RV See Note)
Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.