This proposed amendment has not been previously agreed to by a general assembly.
Impact
For the amendment to become effective, it must receive agreement from two consecutive general assemblies and then be ratified by a majority of voters in the state. This multi-step process is designed to ensure that any significant changes to the state constitution reflect a broad consensus among both the legislative body and the electorate. The implications of these requirements are significant, as they may serve as a framework for future proposals and could influence the political landscape in Indiana regarding constitutional matters.
Summary
SJR0013 is a proposed amendment to the Constitution of the State of Indiana, introduced to the One Hundred Twenty-second General Assembly. The resolution seeks to amend certain provisions of the state constitution, though specific details on which sections are targeted are not outlined in the provided text. The amendment is crucial as it aims to outline the procedure and requirements for future constitutional changes, thus clarifying how amendments can be initiated and ratified.
Contention
Discussion around SJR0013 may revolve around the potential for increased legislative control over constitutional amendments and the role of public voting in these decisions. Some supporters might argue that such a structured process safeguards against hasty changes to the constitutional framework, while critics could raise concerns about the challenges it poses for grassroots movements or proposals aimed at addressing urgent state issues. The tension between legislative procedure and public engagement will likely be a focal point in debates surrounding this amendment.
Provides that the rights set forth in the Constitution of the State of Indiana, the laws prescribed by the general assembly, and the rules prescribed by virtue of the authority of the general assembly apply to a preborn child as soon as the preborn child's mother is aware she is pregnant.