Indiana 2022 Regular Session

Indiana Senate Bill SJR0003

Introduced
1/4/22  
Refer
1/4/22  

Caption

Directs Congress to call a constitutional convention under Article 5 of the Constitution of the United States for the purpose of proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to fix the membership of the United States Supreme Court at nine justices.

Impact

If passed, SJR0003 could have significant implications for federal judiciary regulations. By seeking a constitutional amendment, the resolution aims to eliminate the possibility of expanding the Supreme Court as a means to influence its decisions. This could impact current and future legislative discussions surrounding judicial reform and the integrity of the judicial system, reinforcing the idea that the number of justices should not be politically manipulated.

Summary

SJR0003 is a Senate Joint Resolution that directs Congress to call a constitutional convention under Article 5 of the U.S. Constitution. The purpose of this convention would be to propose an amendment that fixes the membership of the United States Supreme Court at nine justices. The resolution emphasizes the need to stabilize and formalize the composition of the Supreme Court amid ongoing discussions and political pressures surrounding court reform.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SJR0003 was marked by division among lawmakers and constituents. Supporters view the resolution as a necessary step to maintain the Supreme Court's objectivity and prevent partisan manipulation, asserting that a stable court structure is essential for the rule of law. Conversely, opposition often expresses concerns about the rigidity that such a fixed number could impose, arguing that flexibility might be required in cases of unforeseen judicial needs.

Contention

Notable points of contention related to SJR0003 arise from the differing perspectives on judicial independence and political dynamics. As some legislators argue that the resolution safeguards judicial integrity, others caution that it could entrench a specific political agenda into the Constitution. The debate highlights a broader national discourse on the balance of power within the government and the potential need for adaptation within the judiciary.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IN SJR502

Applying to the United States Congress under Article V of the United States Constitution to call for a convention proposing an amendment to the constitution fixing the number of justices of the United States Supreme Court at one chief justice and eight associate justices.

IN HJR5002

Applying to the United States Congress under Article V of the United States Constitution to call for a convention for proposing an amendment to the constitution establishing congressional term limits.

IN HJR118

Applying to the Congress of the United States to call a convention under Article V of the United States Constitution for the limited purpose of proposing an amendment to the constitution to limit the terms of office of members of Congress.

IN SC515

United States Constitutional Convention under Article V; apply for congressional term limits.

IN SC513

United States Constitutional Convention under Article V; apply for congressional term limits.

IN HC51

United States Constitutional Convention under Article V; apply for congressional term limits.

IN C01002

Calls for a convention for the purpose of proposing amendments to the Constitution of the United States

IN HCR12

Constitutional Amendment establishing the United States Supreme Court as 9 Justices

IN HJR1004

Applying To The United States Congress For An Article V Convention Of The States For The Purpose Of Proposing An Amendment To The United States Constitution To Impose Term Limits Of Members For The United States Congress.

IN HCR025

States findings of the Legislature and requests that Congress call a convention for proposing amendments under Article V of the Constitution of the United States.

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