Proposes a constitutional amendment that requires a two-thirds vote to pass any constitutional measure submitted to the people
Impact
The implementation of this requirement would modify the legislative process significantly, particularly in how voter initiatives and constitutional amendments are managed in the state. By raising the bar for what constitutes legislative approval, HJR4 could lead to fewer constitutional measures being approved, effectively stabilizing the legal framework and reducing the rate at which the constitution is amended. This change may also impact citizens' willingness to mobilize for initiatives, as the chances of success would be diminished under a two-thirds requirement.
Summary
HJR4 proposes a constitutional amendment that would require a two-thirds vote in order to pass any constitutional measure submitted to the people. This requirement aims to ensure that any change to the state constitution reflects a significant consensus among the electorate, making it more challenging for controversial or less supported measures to gain traction. The intent behind this amendment is to safeguard the integrity of the state constitution by requiring a higher threshold for alterations, thus potentially preventing swift changes that could arise from popular but fleeting sentiments among the voters.
Contention
Discussions around HJR4 have revealed notable points of contention among legislators and advocacy groups. Proponents argue that this measure would prevent hasty amendments that do not adequately represent the will of a larger majority of voters, thereby promoting more deliberative changes to the constitution. On the other hand, opponents express concerns that such a high threshold for constitutional amendments could be overly restrictive, hindering necessary reforms and making it more difficult for grassroots movements to effect change. This tension highlights the balance between preserving constitutional integrity and ensuring robust democratic participation.
Proposes a constitutional amendment that requires a majority vote in each of 3/4 of the counties in the state to pass any constitutional measure submitted to the people
Proposes a constitutional amendment prohibiting an initiative measure approved by the voters to be amended or repealed by the General Assembly except by referendum