ELECTIONS – States findings of the Legislature and calls on Congress to pass a constitutional amendment affirming the authority of states to govern their election processes.
Summary
SJM109 is a legislative memorial concerning elections and federalism. It states findings of the Idaho Legislature and calls on Congress to propose and pass a constitutional amendment affirming that states have the authority to govern their own election processes. As a memorial, it is a formal expression of the Legislature’s position rather than a statute that directly changes Idaho election law.
The measure is aimed at reinforcing state control over election administration and protecting that authority at the federal constitutional level. It does not appear to amend Idaho’s election code, create new election procedures, or impose new duties on state or local election officials. Instead, it seeks to influence federal action by urging Congress to advance a constitutional amendment.
Impact
Because SJM109 is a joint memorial rather than a bill amending the Idaho Code, its direct legal impact on state law is limited. It does not itself alter election statutes, voter eligibility rules, ballot procedures, or election administration requirements in Idaho. Its practical effect is political and declaratory: it records the Legislature’s position and transmits that position to Congress and other relevant recipients as a request for federal constitutional change.
Sentiment
The available context suggests generally supportive sentiment, with the bill advancing without recorded opposition in the provided materials. The co-sponsorship by multiple representatives indicates legislative backing for the memorial’s message about state authority over elections. No committee transcript or vote record is provided showing debate or division, so the overall tone appears favorable and largely consensus-based.
Contention
The central point of contention, based on the bill’s subject matter, is the balance of power between state and federal authority over elections. Supporters would favor preserving or strengthening state control over election processes, while critics might view the memorial as unnecessary, symbolic, or as part of a broader debate over federal standards and oversight in elections. However, no specific objections, amendments, or recorded dissent are included in the provided history.
States findings of the Legislature and makes three separate applications to the United States Congress to call a convention of the states under Article V of the Constitution of the United States.
States findings of the Legislature and requests Idaho work with the federal government to reform certain federal acts that impede the production and processing of minerals in Idaho.
States findings of the Legislature and proposes an amendment to the Idaho Constitution requiring a 2/3 vote of the Legislature to legalize certain illegal drugs.
States findings of the Legislature and provides that individual legislative members may donate all or a portion of their compensation to the tax relief fund.
States findings of the Legislature and authorizes the Legislative Council to establish a committee to complete a study of Idaho's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
States findings of the Legislature, commends and honors Alex J. Adams, and calls on the U.S. Senate to swiftly approve his nomination to serve in President Donald J. Trump's administration.
States findings of the Legislature, commends approval of the Stibnite Gold Project, and requests the remaining permits for the project be expeditiously processed and approved.