HB 2931 would create a new Arizona statute governing how the state participates in a future Article V convention of states called by Congress to propose amendments to the U.S. Constitution. The bill requires Arizona to send a delegation only with the intent to discuss and propose amendments that fall within a defined “Legal convention scope,” meaning the subject matter must be included both in Congress’s call and in applications from at least two-thirds of the states.
The bill also requires each delegate and alternate delegate to take a detailed oath. That oath would bind them to uphold the U.S. and Arizona constitutions, follow legislative instructions so long as they do not conflict with the convention’s approved subject matter, and refuse to consider or approve any amendment outside the authorized scope. A violation would trigger immediate recall, a civil penalty of at least $5,000, and possible criminal charges; the bill also requires reporting violations to the Attorney General and legislative leaders. A delegate who votes to advance or approve an out-of-scope amendment would commit a Class 5 felony.
Impact
HB 2931 would add section 41-1108 to Arizona law and create a new framework for selecting, instructing, and disciplining Arizona’s delegates to an Article V convention of states. It would give the Legislature and its authorized committee direct recall authority over delegates, impose mandatory reporting duties, authorize civil penalties, and create a criminal offense for voting outside the convention’s authorized subject matter. The bill would affect future convention delegates, the Attorney General, and legislative leadership, but only if Congress actually calls such a convention.
Sentiment
There is no committee transcript or recorded vote history provided, so the available context does not show formal debate or measured support/opposition. Based on the bill text alone, the measure appears designed to tightly control Arizona’s participation in any convention of states and to prevent delegates from exceeding their authority. The tone of the bill is strongly precautionary and enforcement-oriented, suggesting support for strict limits on delegate discretion.
Contention
The main point of contention is likely to be whether Arizona should impose criminal and civil penalties on convention delegates and whether the Legislature can effectively bind delegates to a narrow interpretation of an Article V convention. Supporters would likely argue the bill protects against a “runaway convention” and ensures delegates stay within the scope approved by Congress and the states. Opponents would likely question the constitutionality, practicality, and severity of the recall, penalty, and felony provisions, especially the requirement that delegates follow legislative instructions only when consistent with the convention’s subject matter.