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.
Impact
The legislation outlines strict guidelines that prevent commissioners from voting in favor of amendments that would alter fundamental liberties as specified in the U.S. Constitution. It also mandates that commissioners cannot receive gifts or benefits exceeding $200, to avoid conflicts of interest. Furthermore, the bill stresses accountability by allowing the advisory committee to recall or suspend a commissioner who exceeds their authority, thereby promoting a structured oversight mechanism to safeguard against potential abuses during the convention process.
Summary
Senate Bill 832 establishes a structured process for the selection, instruction, and oversight of commissioners who will represent the state at an Article V convention aimed at proposing amendments to the United States Constitution. The bill ensures that commissioners are selected through a resolution passed by a joint session of the state legislature, which needs to maintain an odd number of commissioners during the delegation to ensure decision-making capabilities. This bill provides clear eligibility criteria for commissioners, which include being a U.S. citizen for at least five years, a registered voter in New Jersey, and not having engaged in federal lobbying in the last five years, among other qualifications.
Contention
The bill has sparked discussion regarding the extent of control that the state legislature will have over commissioners' actions. Supporters argue that these measures are necessary to maintain integrity and focused representation during the convention, whereas critics may raise concerns over the centralization of decision-making authority and the limitations placed on the commissioners' ability to act freely. The inclusion of criminal penalties for exceeding authority or for attempting to influence commissioners unlawfully serves to underline the seriousness of adhering to the established rules and may also act as a deterrent against misconduct.
Carry Over
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.
Carry Over
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.
Same As
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.
Article V Convention; process for appointing commissioners and alternate commissioners to represent the State of Alabama at Article V Convention established
A bill for an act concerning persons appointed to a convention called by the United States Congress to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States, making appropriations, and providing penalties.