Requiring each resolution adopted by the legislative assembly proposing a constitutional amendment and each initiative petition and measure proposing a constitutional amendment to be comprised of a single subject.
Impact
If enacted, this resolution would have significant implications for how constitutional amendments are proposed and processed in North Dakota. It would require that each initiative or legislative proposal focuses solely on one issue, potentially streamlining the voting process and encouraging more straightforward civic engagement with proposed changes. The requirement may also prevent the inclusion of unrelated measures within a single amendment, which could lead to more informed decision-making among the electorate.
Summary
SCR4007 is a concurrent resolution aimed at amending sections of the North Dakota Constitution. Specifically, it mandates that any resolution proposing a constitutional amendment, whether adopted by the legislative assembly or through an initiative petition, must address a single subject only. This legal requirement is designed to ensure clarity and specificity in proposed amendments, thereby limiting the scope of each initiative and reducing the potential for confusion among voters about what they are being asked to approve or reject.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SCR4007 appears to be largely supportive among legislators advocating for clearer governance and greater voter comprehension. Proponents see the single subject requirement as an important safeguard for the democratic process, enhancing transparency and accountability. However, some may express concerns that such stipulations could limit the ability of citizen-led initiatives to address multifaceted issues that are often interconnected.
Contention
Notably, the discussion surrounding SCR4007 may reveal a split in opinion about the benefits and drawbacks of imposing such a standard. Critics of the resolution might argue that the requirement could hinder comprehensive reform efforts that benefit from broader approaches to policy-making. There may also be debate on who will ultimately determine what constitutes a single subject, raising questions about the role of the secretary of state in approving initiative petitions for circulation.
Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, requiring a number of signatures on a petition to initiate a constitutional amendment be obtained from each county.
Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election amendments to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, requiring an intervening general election before consideration of an initiated constitutional amendment or initiated measure having the same subject as a previously rejected initiated amendment or measure.
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.