If the amendment passes, the state and its political subdivisions would be designated as trustees of the public natural resources, such as air, water, flora, and fauna. This legal framework would require them to conserve and protect these resources for current and future generations. The overarching goal is to reinforce the idea that environmental stewardship is a collective responsibility, thereby embedding the right to a healthy environment within the state's legal fabric, making it self-executing and inalienable.
Summary
SCR1034 is a proposed amendment to the Arizona Constitution, specifically targeting Article II to include a new section concerning environmental rights. This section asserts that every individual, including future generations, has an inherent right to a clean and healthy environment, which encompasses pure water, clean air, healthy ecosystems, and a stable climate. It emphasizes the need to preserve the natural, cultural, and scenic qualities of the environment for the benefit of all residents of Arizona.
Contention
Debate surrounding SCR1034 is likely to revolve around the practical implications of such an amendment. Supporters may argue that redefining environmental rights at the constitutional level is necessary for robust environmental protections and that it affords citizens a powerful tool to engage the state in protecting their environmental interests. Conversely, detractors could question the feasibility of enforcing such rights and may raise concerns about potential legal challenges or restrictions on economic activities driven by the necessity to meet these constitutional obligations.
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.