Applies to Congress for an Article V Convention of States to limit certain powers of the federal government and terms of office.
Impact
If SCR32 is successful, it would set a precedent for state influence over federal governance, potentially altering the balance of power defined within the Constitution. Advocates argue that federal mandates have often intruded upon state rights and responsibilities, resulting in financial strains and limiting state autonomy. The proposed amendments could provide states with enhanced authority to manage their fiscal policies independently of federal dictates and could address the growing concerns regarding national debt and federal spending practices.
Summary
Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 32 (SCR32) represents a significant legislative initiative from New Jersey, applying to the United States Congress for the convocation of an Article V Convention of States. The resolution aims to propose amendments to the U.S. Constitution that would impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, limit its power and jurisdiction, and establish term limits for federal officials, including members of Congress. The invocation of Article V stipulates that such a convention can be called under specific conditions, emphasizing the role of state legislatures in safeguarding liberty against federal overreach.
Contention
However, the resolution does not come without controversy. Critics of SCR32 express concern that convening an Article V Convention carries substantial risks of unintended consequences, including the potential alteration of fundamental constitutional rights. Detractors worry that the process may open the door to radical changes that undermine the federal safeguards enshrined in the Constitution. The juxtaposition of state versus federal authority remains a contentious issue, with opinions divided on the merits and hazards of pursuing such an initiative.
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.