Amends Constitution to require that State tax bills pass both Houses of Legislature by three-fifths majority vote.
Impact
If enacted, ACR21 would fundamentally modify the legislative framework surrounding tax legislation in New Jersey. The three-fifths majority requirement would apply specifically to bills that propose to introduce new taxes or increase existing taxes. Such a requirement could make it significantly more challenging for future administrations to implement tax increases, thereby reinforcing a degree of fiscal conservatism in the state's governance. This amendment would highlight a shift toward greater legislative caution regarding tax-related decisions, which could affect funding for public services and initiatives.
Summary
ACR21 is a concurrent resolution proposing an amendment to the New Jersey State Constitution that seeks to alter the voting requirement for passing state tax bills. Specifically, the bill stipulates that any legislation levying a new state tax or increasing an existing one must be approved by a three-fifths majority in both houses of the legislature, rather than the simple majority that is customary for most bills. This proposed change is designed to enhance scrutiny and potentially limit the state's ability to raise taxes without broad consensus among legislators.
Contention
The amendment has raised notable points of contention among stakeholders. Supporters argue that requiring a higher threshold for tax increases reflects a commitment to responsible taxation and protects taxpayers from potential financial overreach by legislators. However, opponents view the amendment as unnecessary and potentially harmful, as it could impede essential funding for state programs and services. They argue that the majority vote has historically been sufficient for effective governance and that such a change could lead to significant delays or blockages in addressing urgent financial needs.
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.