Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2724

Introduced
2/27/26  

Caption

JOINT RESOLUTION RESPECTFULLY REQUESTING A CONVENTION OF THE STATES UNDER ARTICLE V OF THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION (Petitions congress to call a convention for the purpose of proposing amendments to the U.S. Constitution to impose restraints on the federal government.)

Impact

If enacted, S2724 would initiate a process that could lead to significant amendments to the U.S. Constitution, specifically targeting constraints on federal authority. The implications of such amendments could reshape federal-state relations and potentially limit federal overreach in various policy areas. Additionally, the invocation of a convention of states represents a shift towards empowering state legislatures to assert their roles in the constitutional process, raising questions about the future interpretation and application of federal law.

Summary

S2724 is a joint resolution requesting a convention of the states under Article V of the United States Constitution. The primary aim of the bill is to petition Congress to call a convention for the purpose of proposing amendments to the Constitution that would impose restraints on the federal government. This move reflects a growing sentiment among certain state legislators who believe that federal powers have exceeded their intended scope and that states must take action to restore balance.

Contention

The bill has been met with mixed reactions. Supporters argue that a convention is a necessary tool for states to reclaim powers that have been usurped by the federal government, emphasizing the need for state sovereignty. In contrast, opponents express concern that a convention could lead to unpredictable outcomes, including the possibility of a 'runaway convention' that could propose amendments undermining essential rights and protections. This apprehension about the potential ramifications of the convention process has sparked a vigorous debate among legislators and constituents alike.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5140

JOINT RESOLUTION RESPECTFULLY REQUESTING A CONVENTION OF THE STATES UNDER ARTICLE V OF THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION (Petitions congress to call a convention for the purpose of proposing amendments to the U.S. Constitution to impose restraints on the federal government.)

RI H5385

JOINT RESOLUTION RESPECTFULLY REQUESTING A CONVENTION OF THE STATES UNDER ARTICLE V OF THE UNITED STATES CONSTITUTION (Petitions congress to call a convention for the purpose of proposing amendments to the U.S. Constitution to impose restraints on the federal government.)

RI H5732

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION – GREEN AMENDMENT (Proposes a constitutional amendment to Article 1 providing for a right to clean air, soil, climate, and the environment’s natural values.)

RI S0327

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- GREEN AMENDMENT (Proposes a constitutional amendment to Article 1 providing for a right to clean air, soil, climate, and the environment’s natural values.)

RI H5515

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- OF SUFFRAGE (Would propose to the voters of the state a constitutional amendment regarding eligibility to vote and to be a candidate.)

RI S0820

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- OF SUFFRAGE (Would propose to the voters of the state a constitutional amendment regarding eligibility to vote and to be a candidate.)

RI H5734

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE STATE -- LINE ITEM VETO (This proposed amendment to our state Constitution grants the governor a line-item veto on the budget and other appropriation bills.)

RI S0725

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- OF THE LEGISLATIVE POWER (Proposes a state constitutional amendment that no department or other entity created by the state would have poser to incur debt in excess of $ 50,000, without express approval from the legislature and voters.)

RI H5139

JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE, PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE STATE -- FOUR YEAR TERMS AND TERM LIMITS FOR REPRESENTATIVES AND SENATORS (Proposes an amendment to the State Constitution, Article IV, Section 1, that would create four (4) year terms for general assembly members and impose term limits of three (3) full four (4) year terms on said members commencing with the 2028 election.)

RI S0056

SENATE RESOLUTION RESPECTFULLY URGING THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS TO PROTECT PATIENTS AND TRADITIONAL MEDICARE FROM MEDICARE ADVANTAGE

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.