Legislature: other; penalties for certain acts related to an article V convention for proposing amendment; provide for. Creates new act.
Impact
The legislation introduces specific criminal penalties for both commissioners who exceed their granted authority and for any individual who attempts to bribe, intimidate, or obstruct a commissioner in their duties. Violators of these provisions could face felony charges and imprisonment for up to five years. This structured approach signifies a legislative attempt to uphold the integrity of Michigan’s representation at an Article V convention, ensuring that commissioners adhere strictly to their assigned roles and responsibilities.
Summary
House Bill 5151 aims to regulate the actions of commissioners representing Michigan at conventions held under Article V of the United States Constitution for the purpose of proposing amendments. The bill seeks to establish clear boundaries regarding the authority of these commissioners, ensuring that they do not exceed the limits set by the state legislature. Specifically, it prohibits any commissioner from acting outside their authorized scope during such conventions, and defines penalties for violations of this directive, thereby enforcing accountability among state representatives.
Contention
Notably, the bill addresses concerns regarding the potential for undue influence over commissioners, reflecting a broader apprehension regarding transparency and accountability in governmental processes. Critics may argue that the stringent penalties for perceived violations could suppress honest debate among commissioners or deter individuals from participating in such conventions. Moreover, the definition of actions that constitute exceeding authority may raise questions about the practical implications for commissioners who must navigate complex political landscapes while adhering to the law.
Establishes process for selection, instruction, and oversight of commissioners to Article V convention for proposing amendments to United States Constitution; establishes criminal penalties for certain violations.
Establishes process for selection, instruction, and oversight of commissioners to Article V convention for proposing amendments to United States Constitution; establishes criminal penalties for certain violations.
Establishes a legislative commission on article V conventions of the states to represent the state of New York at article V conventions; provides penalties for commissioners who exceed their scope of authority and individuals who interfere with the duties of a commissioner.
Establishes a legislative commission on article V conventions of the states to represent the state of New York at article V conventions; provides penalties for commissioners who exceed their scope of authority and individuals who interfere with the duties of a commissioner.
Article V Convention; process for appointing commissioners and alternate commissioners to represent the State of Alabama at Article V Convention established
Article V Convention; process for appointing commissioners and alternate commissioners to represent the State of Alabama at Article V Convention established