Iowa House Bill HJR6

Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Filed/Introduced: 2/28/25
• Introduced: 2/6/25
• Refer: 2/6/25

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 limit the number of terms that a person may serve in Congress or as a federal official.(See HJR 11.)

Summary

House Joint Resolution 6 applies for an Article V convention of the states, asking Congress to call a convention limited to proposing amendments to the U.S. Constitution on three subjects: fiscal restraints on the federal government, limits on federal power and jurisdiction, and term limits for members of Congress and certain federal officials. The resolution states that no other topics may be considered and describes the application as a continuing one until enough states make similar applications or Iowa withdraws it. The resolution also directs the Iowa Secretary of State to send certified copies to federal leaders and to the presiding officers of every state legislature. In practical terms, the measure does not directly change Iowa statutory law or create a new state program; instead, it is an interstate and federal constitutional application expressing Iowa’s support for a convention under Article V and seeking to influence potential constitutional amendments at the national level.

Impact

HJR 6 would not amend Iowa’s code or regulate private conduct directly. Its legal effect is to place Iowa on record as requesting Congress to convene an Article V convention for a narrowly defined purpose, and to keep that request active as a continuing application unless withdrawn. The resolution is aimed at federal constitutional change, especially on spending, federal authority, and term limits, and it requires formal transmission to Congress and all state legislatures.

Sentiment

The available voting history suggests generally favorable committee sentiment, with the House Committee on State Government approving the bill by a 13-10 vote. The bill’s sponsors and the resolution’s findings reflect a strong pro-limited-government and anti-deficit posture, emphasizing state sovereignty and restraint on federal power. The committee result indicates support was present but not unanimous, consistent with the broader political sensitivity of Article V convention proposals.

Contention

The main points of contention are the use of an Article V convention itself and the scope of the proposed amendments. Supporters view the resolution as a necessary tool to impose fiscal discipline, curb federal overreach, and establish term limits. Opponents are likely concerned about the risks of opening a constitutional convention, including uncertainty over what amendments could emerge, the potential for broader constitutional changes beyond the stated topics, and the implications for federal-state balance. The close committee vote indicates meaningful disagreement over both the strategy and the potential consequences.