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Iowa Senate Bill SJR2
Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session
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Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

Iowa Senate Bill SJR2

Introduced
1/10/23  
Introduced
1/10/23  

Caption

A joint resolution calling for an Article V convention in order to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that impose fiscal restraints, limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and impose limits on the number of terms that a person may serve in Congress, and requesting Congress to similarly propose such amendments.

Impact

If enacted, SJR2 would empower Iowa's General Assembly to advocate for amendments that serve to restrain federal authority and promote greater accountability among federal officials. The resolution is intended to initiate a broader movement among states to convene such a convention, thereby emphasizing the role of states as guardians of liberties and protectors against federal abuse of power. By incorporating term limits, the bill aims to encourage a more representative legislative body, leading to better engagement between elected officials and the electorate.

Summary

Senate Joint Resolution 2 (SJR2) proposes convening an Article V convention to amend the U.S. Constitution, focusing on imposing fiscal restraints on the federal government, limiting its power and jurisdiction, and establishing term limits for Congress members. Introduced by Senator Dawson, the resolution reflects concerns about the federal government's rising national debt and overreach, as well as the growing disconnect between Congress members and their constituents due to prolonged terms in office.

Contention

Despite its proponents' intentions, SJR2 raises questions about the implications of calling a constitutional convention. Critics may argue that such a convention could lead to unintended amendments or radical changes to the Constitution. The specificity of the amendments sought—fiscal restraints, limits on federal power, and term limits for Congress—is aimed at addressing significant issues but also risks opening debates on broader amendments that could alter the fundamental nature of governance in the United States. This concern reflects a broader skepticism about the potential consequences of altering the constitutional framework without comprehensive oversight.

Latest IA SJR2 Activity

View All Events: IA 2023-2024 Regular Session SJR2

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IA SJR2

A joint resolution calling for an Article V convention in order to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that impose fiscal restraints, limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and limit the number of terms that a person may serve in Congress.

IA SJR2011

A joint resolution calling for an Article V convention in order to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, impose fiscal restraints, and limit the number of terms that a person may serve in Congress or as a federal official.

IA HJR6

A joint resolution calling for an Article V convention in order to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that impose fiscal restraints, limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and limit the number of terms that a person may serve in Congress or as a federal official.(See HJR 11.)

IA HJR2004

A joint resolution calling for an Article V convention in order to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, impose fiscal restraints, and limit the number of terms that a person may serve in Congress or as a federal official.

IA HJR11

A joint resolution calling for an Article V convention in order to propose amendments to the Constitution of the United States that impose fiscal restraints, limit the power and jurisdiction of the federal government, and limit the number of terms that a person may serve in Congress or as a federal official.(Formerly HJR 6.)

IA SCR98

Urging The United States Congress To Call A Convention For Proposing Amendments Pursuant To Article V Of The United States Constitution Limited To Proposing Amendments That Impose Fiscal Restraints On The Federal Government, Limit The Power And Jurisdiction Of The Federal Government, And Limit The Terms Of Office For Its Officials And Members Of Congress.

IA HCR80

Urging The United States Congress To Call A Convention For Proposing Amendments Pursuant To Article V Of The United States Constitution Limited To Proposing Amendments That Impose Fiscal Restraints On The Federal Government, Limit The Power And Jurisdiction Of The Federal Government, And Limit The Terms Of Office For Its Officials And Members Of Congress.

IA HCR34

Urging The United States Congress To Call A Convention For Proposing Amendments Pursuant To Article V Of The United States Constitution Limited To Proposing Amendments That Impose Fiscal Restraints On The Federal Government, Limit The Power And Jurisdiction Of The Federal Government, And Limit The Terms Of Office For Its Officials And Members Of Congress.

IA SR112

A Concurrent Resolution petitioning the Congress of the United States to call a Convention for proposing amendments pursuant to Article V of the Constitution of the United States limited to proposing amendments that impose fiscal restraints on the Federal Government, limit the power and jurisdiction of the Federal Government and limit the terms of office for its officials and for members of Congress.

IA HR125

A Concurrent Resolution petitioning the Congress of the United States to call a Convention for proposing amendments pursuant to Article V of the Constitution of the United States limited to proposing amendments that impose fiscal restraints on the Federal Government, limit the power and jurisdiction of the Federal Government and limit the terms of office for its officials and for members of Congress.

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