US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session

US Federal House Bill HJR12

Introduced
1/6/25  

Caption

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to limit the number of terms that a Member of Congress may serve.

Impact

If HJR12 is successfully ratified, it would necessitate significant changes to current congressional practices and could reshape the political landscape by enabling more frequent turnover in leadership. This can lead to a dynamic legislative environment where new ideas and policies have a better chance of being introduced. However, the immediate impact would involve a shift in election dynamics as incumbents would face new challenges to maintain their positions, motivating potential candidates to seek office. Such a shift may also invigorate political engagement among constituents seeking change.

Summary

HJR12 proposes an amendment to the U.S. Constitution that seeks to limit the number of terms that Members of Congress can serve. Specifically, the resolution stipulates that no person may serve more than three terms in the House of Representatives, and no more than two terms in the Senate. This legislative effort is rooted in the belief that term limits would foster greater accountability among elected officials and prevent career politicians from entrenching themselves in power. The bill reflects a growing number of voices advocating for major reforms within the U.S. governance framework, emphasizing the need for fresh perspectives in legislative decision-making.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding HJR12, as discussions around term limits often elicit mixed reactions from lawmakers and the public alike. Opponents argue that term limits may disadvantage experienced legislators who have developed the expertise needed to navigate complex policies effectively. Critics also express concern that limiting terms could empower lobbyists and ensure that newly elected officials remain subject to established interests. On the other hand, proponents underscore these concerns, emphasizing that the frequent rotation of elected officials can mitigate the risks of corruption and create a more representative body that reflects changing public interests.

Congress_id

119-HJRES-12

Policy_area

Congress

Introduced_date

2025-01-06

Companion Bills

US SJR1

Related A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relative to limiting the number of terms that a Member of Congress may serve.

US SJR2

Related This joint resolution proposes constitutional amendments that (1) authorize the President to reduce or disapprove any appropriation in a bill or joint resolution using a line-item veto; (2) prohibit Members of Congress from serving more than six terms in the House of Representatives or two terms in the Senate; and (3) prohibit a chamber of Congress from agreeing to legislation that imposes, authorizes, or raises any tax or fee unless the legislation contains no other subject and is agreed to by an affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the chamber. 

Previously Filed As

US HJR94

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to limit the number of terms that a Member of Congress may serve.

US SJR1

A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relative to limiting the number of terms that a Member of Congress may serve.

US HJR120

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to limit the number of consecutive terms that a Member of Congress may serve.

US HJR5

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to limit the number of terms an individual may serve as a Member of Congress.

US SJR48

A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to limit the number of terms an individual may serve as a Member of Congress.

US HR801

Providing for the consideration of the joint resolution (H. J. Res. 12) proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to limit the number of terms that a Member of Congress may serve.

US HR111

A Concurrent Resolution calling for a convention under Article V of the Constitution of the United States to consider amendments that limit the number of terms that members of Congress may serve.

US SR23

US Congress; limited to proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to set a limit on the number of terms that a person may be elected; apply to call a convention

US HJR118

Applying to the Congress of the United States to call a convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for the limited purpose of proposing an amendment to the constitution to limit the terms of office of members of Congress.

US HJR1004

Applying To The United States Congress For An Article V Convention Of The States For The Purpose Of Proposing An Amendment To The United States Constitution To Impose Term Limits Of Members For The United States Congress.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.