Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HJR2004

Introduced
1/26/26  

Caption

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.

Impact

If passed and actualized, HJR2004 could have profound ramifications on the relationship between state and federal powers. By advocating for a convention aimed at amending the Constitution, Iowa would join a growing number of states challenging the federal government's reach, potentially leading to a shift in how power is distributed in the United States. This could empower states to regain control over certain areas that they feel have been undermined or neglected by the federal government.

Summary

House Joint Resolution 2004 (HJR2004) is a legislative proposal initiated by certain members of the Iowa General Assembly that seeks to call for an Article V convention. This convention is intended to propose amendments to the United States Constitution with specific objectives: to limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, impose fiscal restraints, and establish term limits for federal officials including members of Congress. The resolution, reflecting concerns about the increasing national debt and perceived federal overreach, positions state legislatures as defenders of individual liberties and state rights against federal authority.

Contention

The resolution has sparked significant debate and contention among lawmakers and analysts alike. Supporters argue that it is a necessary means to restore balance and accountability at the federal level, encouraging fiscal responsibility and limiting career politicians due to term limits. Critics, however, express concerns over the risks posed by an Article V convention, including the potential for unintended amendments that could further entrench federal power or diminish individual rights. There are fears that opening the Constitution to amendments could lead to a 'runaway convention' where far-reaching changes are made without adequate consideration.

Companion Bills

IA SJR2011

Similar To 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.

Previously Filed As

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 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 HJR11

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.)

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 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 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 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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