Resolutions rescinding previous Article V convention applications
Impact
The bill's enactment would eliminate previous requests for a convention that could propose amendments to the Constitution, effectively nullifying Massachusetts's historical stance on constitutional change through a convention. By consolidating the state's position on this matter, the bill aims to clarify that any previous requests—inclusive of those lacking specific termination dates—are no longer active. This could signify a shift in legislative priorities and a desire to streamline Massachusetts’s constitutional engagement with federal entities.
Summary
Bill S2684 proposes resolutions to rescind all previous applications made by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for an Article V Constitutional Convention. The bill is introduced by legislators Cynthia Stone Creem and Alice Hanlon Peisch, addressing the historical context of prior applications that sought amendments to the U.S. Constitution. It highlights that Massachusetts has not submitted any new applications for almost 50 years, suggesting that the previous applications may no longer reflect current legislative intent or public support among the state's constituents.
Contention
While the bill may seem straightforward, discussions around S2684 may involve debates regarding the merits of potential constitutional amendments that were once pursued. Some stakeholders might argue that rescinding these applications closes off avenues for necessary reforms, whereas supporters might view it as a responsible decision reflecting changing societal needs. Furthermore, the procedural aspect of rescinding multiple historical applications could lead to discussions surrounding the state's legislative processes and the implications of such a significant historical alteration.
JOINT RESOLUTION RESCINDING PREVIOUS ARTICLE V CONVENTION APPLICATIONS (Rescinds any prior applications to the United States Congress from the Rhode Island General Assembly to call for a convention to amend the United States Constitution.)
JOINT RESOLUTION RESCINDING ALL PRIOR ARTICLE V CONVENTION APPLICATIONS (Cancels and nullifies all prior applications by the general assembly calling for a constitutional convention.)
Resolution Rescinding Previous Applications Of The General Assembly That Called For An Article V Convention To Propose Amendments To The Constitution Of The United States And Directing Transmission Of Such Resolution To Congress For Printing In The Congressional Record.
A joint resolution rescinding prior applications of the legislature to Congress for a constitutional convention under Article V of the Constitution of the United States.
Rescinding House Concurrent Resolution No. 40 passed by the 2012 New Hampshire General Court asking that Congress call a convention under Article V of the United States Constitution.
Rescinding the automatic rescission of certain applications made by the Texas Legislature to the United States Congress to call a national convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for proposing any amendment to that constitution.